10 Overrated Rock Music Albums Of The 2000s

10. Green Day - American Idiot

It’s worth saying Green Day should be commended for trying something so far out of their comfort zone, and for large parts making it work. The band known for anthems about masturbation and marijuana decided to write a punk rock opera, and to an extent, they succeeded.

They embraced the opera too much, though, and in neglecting the punk rock side of things strayed too far from the sound they actually do well. The title track is fine but ultimately forgettable. Sections of the song suites - particularly "Jesus of Suburbia", are very good, sharp bursts of energy that weave together well.

But many of the singles were dirges; “Boulevard Of Broken Dreams” is an unlovable, miserable number, “Wake Me Up When September Ends” too sappy for words, and “Holiday” just a bit boring. No one expected them to stay teenagers forever, but they didn’t need to get so serious so quick.

The album spawned a Broadway show and inspired the mature direction of the band - for a bit, before they reverted to punchy, fun songs in recent releases. It was huge news at the time, but surely no self respecting Green Day fan reaches for this one nowadays.