Friday, March 21, 2008

Emo Line of the Week


I have a confession to make.  I love emo music.  The moment I hear those whiny, depressing, and ridiculously morbid lyrics, I'm sold.  As long as they don't kill any semblance of joy in the room, they provide for a good laugh. And I'll admit it. Sometimes those exaggerated lyrics describe just how I'm feeling. Granted, I've never really wanted to "cut my wrists and black my eyes" (Thank you Hawthorne Heights), but you get the idea. With that being said, I want to celebrate all that is emo. And thus, I give you the first installment of "Emo Line of the Week."

The Spill Canvas- "Battles"
It's like one thousand papercuts,
Soaked in vinegar.
Like the battles with yourself,
That leave you insecure.


The Spill Canvas does have a way with describing their anguish in the most uplifting similes. No, it isn't enough to say something is painful. Instead, they paint a lovely picture of burning your bloody hand on the acidic liquid. Who wouldn't sing along?
And here's an added bonus just in case you were doubting their emo-ness:

From "Polygraph, Right Now"
I bleed confidence from deep within my guts now
I’m the king of this pity party with my jewel encrusted crown

Monday, March 17, 2008

Honey, honey honey... you're the death of me

Now that I've slacked off for the past month on posting, I figured the best way to start would be with a review of an incredible album.  Today marks the release of the Hush Sound's third full-length album, Goodbye Blues.

I've never been the greatest at categorizing bands, what with the various labels (can someone please tell me the difference between hardcore, post-hardcore and metal?), but when it comes to the Hush Sound, you just have to listen.  And not just to a few songs.  Although ITunes may label them "alternative," the category only simplifies them to only one of their many styles.  This band has a habit for blending different musical genres, resulting in albums that range from poppy with infectious choruses ("Don't Wake Me Up"), to the 1920s-esque piano driven songs ("Walking Towards the Sun") to something all their own ("Sweet Tangerine", "Momentum").  Although one may be quick to write them off as yet another pop punk alternative band like their label-mates (Fall Out Boy, Panic at the Disco), they are undoubtedly the most unique, and perhaps riskiest band on Fueled By Ramen.

And somehow, they've taken it a step further with their newest album.  Some songs are definitely radio-friendly, like the lead single, "Honey," but unlike other bands, their sound is still as indy and folksy as always, if not more.  "Love You Better" and "Molasses"stand out as tracks that are not a product of the music industry's current generic sound.  Even something as simple as the hook is reminiscent of the good ol' days in music, when the lyrics actually served a purpose rather than offering a spelling lesson (Damn you Fergie).

More than anything, you can hear the growth of the band with each guitar riff or high note. There's no denying that vocalist/pianist Greta Salpeter has always had a great voice.  But this time around, the emotional undertones provide an added layer to the singer's vocal presence.  Not to take away from their other vocalist, Bob Morris, who's distinct and unique voice is as amazing as always.

As excited as I am for the release, more than anything I'm relieved that the band is still together.  The Chicago group nearly called it quits at the end of 2006.  Thank the band's faithful fans for reminding the band just how much of an impact can music can make on people's lives.

I'm still in the process of picking a favorite song, though I've had the entire album on repeat for a few hours now.  To find a favorite of your own, check out their myspace, or better yet, purchase their album here.