Since their debut on the scene in 1994, reviews of Weezer’s subsequent albums have paled in comparison. Fans, myself included, have stood by the band as Pinkerton, The Green Album, Maladroit and Make Believe saw occasional commercial success with pop-like singles but nothing lasting.

But we held out. We found and embraced the good stuff (Pinkerton’s been in my heavy rotation since high school) where snooty reviewers and the general public saw weak pet projects. And now, for Weezer and music fans alike, the long wait may be over.

A few days ago, the band released their 6th disc, (a third self-titled album dubbed The Red Album), and early reviews of the album are positive. I’m crossing my fingers and hoping Weezer may finally get the respect they deserve.

One telling lyric says it best, “Timbaland knows the way to reach the top of the charts/Maybe if I work with him I can perfect the art.” It didn’t take production mastermind Timbaland, just a return to the riffs, attitude and fun that made Weezer famous. In the same vein, the video for Pork And Beans celebrates YouTube superstars with a veritable galaxy of accidental celebrities. Perfect, for the band’s return to critical and hopefully commercial success.

Before diving in to the new disc, take some time to embrace how far these fellas have come. I put together a playlist of some of my favorite Weezer tracks and you can listen to it online. I promise you’ll be a believer in 40 minutes or less.

Is anyone else out there a long-time Weezer fan? Or do you have experience following a band religiously despite sour albums, or bad press (I’m talking to you Guns N Roses fans)? And is anyone else excited to to purchase the Weezer album and the new one from Journey today…not that I am…I’m just wondering if you are…oh gosh nevermind.