Hey guys, if you want to read the Emery review, just scroll down and it'll be under this post. I just took a few of the recent updates and condensed it into one post, added a little bit more news (look for the ***), and this is it. Hope you like the blog! Have fun listening to Emery's new album!
Emery's new album is being streamed on their Myspace! Get over there and give it a listen, and then buy it Tuesday. You can preorder it on iTunes for $9.99 if you click here. It comes with a b-sides track called "Closed Eyes, Open Hands." (SCROLL DOWN FOR THE REVIEW)
Thousand Foot Krutch put their album artwork for Welcome To The Masquerade on their Twitter. You can see it by clicking here. Not really what I expected, but it's not bad. You can follow them on Twitter @OfficialTFK
Skillet's new single off their album Awake (coming late this summer) is being featured on
The Battle of the Buzz on Radio U. You can hear it again at 6 EST, Monday through Friday if it keeps on winning. So vote for it to make sure you can hear it again!
Hawk Nelson announced that their fourth album will be called Live Life Loud, and will be released October 6th. Like past Hawk songs, some have been co-penned by Trevor McNevan, but they have also teamed up with a few other artists including tobyMac and Bart Millard of MercyMe. Hopefully this album will be a little better than Hawk Nelson Is My Friend, because that was a little bit of a letdown for me.
Project 86 posted two songs from their upcoming album, Picket Fence Cartel, entitled "Destroyer" and "Dark Angel Dragnet" on their Myspace.
***Switchfoot announced today that they are finished with their new album, Hello Hurricane. It'll be out sometime at the end of the summer, probably October. Be very excited.
***Also, Fireflight announced on their Twitter today that they are writing new music.
***HOUSE OF HEROES MEETS THE BEATLES IS NOW AVAILABLE FOR PREORDER ON ITUNES!!! You can get it for $1.99 by clicking here. It comes with the songs "Can't Buy Me Love," "It Won't Be Long," and "Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da."
Thanks again guys! Right now I'm working on a Christian Rock OBSESSION Flickr site where you can check out my concert pics. I'll have the link up soon. You can also follow me on Twitter @fisher_is. See you guys later!
-FISHER
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Emery- ...In Shallow Seas We Sail
Last October, Emery fans were blown away by yet another great effort in EP form entitled While Broken Hearts Prevail.... Every song was a great addition to an Emery fan's collection, but only seven songs was not enough. Emery's fifth studio album, ...In Shallow Seas We Sail will certainly crave our appetites and live up to the expectations delivered to us by the EP.
Emery's style is something that draws in so many fans. They're not your typical Christian rock band. Mixing heavy screamo with melodic harmonies and having such interesting lyrics sets them apart from those who prefer to do the same thing over and over. In fact, Emery addressed their fans about their style in the booklet of their EP, saying that "We do appreciate you guys SO FREAKING MUCH, but we can't accept being labeled and kept in a box. That's selling out: writing "Walls" fifty different ways so we can pick up a paycheck." And Emery does a great job at keeping things diverse. The opening track and the first single off the album, "Cutthroat Collapse" demonstrates this perfectly. The screamo opening with heavy guitars and insane drums quickly moves to a slower verse that still keeps it hard, and then moves into the chaotic chorus that actually sounds very well put together. The next verse slows it down again, and after the chorus, moves back to more screamo, giving fans a taste of everything that Emery is--all in one song.
"Curbside Goodbye" has a very beautiful chorus and exhibits Toby's vocals in very good light. "Inside Our Skin" gives us quick glimpses at Emery with acoustic guitars. It's very catchy, and it would've been nice if they'd kept it throughout the whole song, as it is much harder in a few places. The lyrics of the song are very meaningful, and definitely add to what the heaviness takes away. It just would've made sense and matched the idea of the song so much more if the whole thing had that acoustic feel. "Churches and Serial Killers" is an interesting song to say the least, opening with violins, and having little bit of a creepy feeling throughout. The words are, again, very well written, and display Emery's talent perfectly. "The Butcher's Mouth" is sure to be a fan favorite with everything that Emery is combined. The title track for the album is a bit more laid back and melodic with deep lyrics that set the concept that vaguely runs through the entire album. "The Poor and the Prevalent" is a lot like "Cutthroat Collapse" in that its chorus has multiple parts being sung at the same time, but run together beautifully. Some fans may be a little annoyed that two songs from the EP, "The Smile, The Face" and "Edge of the World" are on this album, because, after all they are not new songs. They're great songs, but was it really necessary to include them a second time? "A Sin To Hold On To" has very honest lyrics that talk about sexual temptation. The next song, "Piggy Bank Lies" is an okay song, but it's certainly not the best. "Dear Death Part 1" is a really short song that never really takes off into anything really good. Toby ends the song singing in what sounds like Italian, and sounds very interesting coming from Emery. The album closer, "Dear Death Part 2" is a great way to end things. It sounds very punk-ish, and is extremely fun. It would be a great song to dance to, live.
...In Shallow Seas We Sail will please anyone that likes Emery. For fans of the EP this is a must-buy. For those new to Emery, this is a great representation of who they are--an extremely talented rock band that you can trust to make sure things won't ever be too cliche, and have great lyrics and a sound that will make them very popular among Christian and mainstream listeners.
Emery's style is something that draws in so many fans. They're not your typical Christian rock band. Mixing heavy screamo with melodic harmonies and having such interesting lyrics sets them apart from those who prefer to do the same thing over and over. In fact, Emery addressed their fans about their style in the booklet of their EP, saying that "We do appreciate you guys SO FREAKING MUCH, but we can't accept being labeled and kept in a box. That's selling out: writing "Walls" fifty different ways so we can pick up a paycheck." And Emery does a great job at keeping things diverse. The opening track and the first single off the album, "Cutthroat Collapse" demonstrates this perfectly. The screamo opening with heavy guitars and insane drums quickly moves to a slower verse that still keeps it hard, and then moves into the chaotic chorus that actually sounds very well put together. The next verse slows it down again, and after the chorus, moves back to more screamo, giving fans a taste of everything that Emery is--all in one song.
"Curbside Goodbye" has a very beautiful chorus and exhibits Toby's vocals in very good light. "Inside Our Skin" gives us quick glimpses at Emery with acoustic guitars. It's very catchy, and it would've been nice if they'd kept it throughout the whole song, as it is much harder in a few places. The lyrics of the song are very meaningful, and definitely add to what the heaviness takes away. It just would've made sense and matched the idea of the song so much more if the whole thing had that acoustic feel. "Churches and Serial Killers" is an interesting song to say the least, opening with violins, and having little bit of a creepy feeling throughout. The words are, again, very well written, and display Emery's talent perfectly. "The Butcher's Mouth" is sure to be a fan favorite with everything that Emery is combined. The title track for the album is a bit more laid back and melodic with deep lyrics that set the concept that vaguely runs through the entire album. "The Poor and the Prevalent" is a lot like "Cutthroat Collapse" in that its chorus has multiple parts being sung at the same time, but run together beautifully. Some fans may be a little annoyed that two songs from the EP, "The Smile, The Face" and "Edge of the World" are on this album, because, after all they are not new songs. They're great songs, but was it really necessary to include them a second time? "A Sin To Hold On To" has very honest lyrics that talk about sexual temptation. The next song, "Piggy Bank Lies" is an okay song, but it's certainly not the best. "Dear Death Part 1" is a really short song that never really takes off into anything really good. Toby ends the song singing in what sounds like Italian, and sounds very interesting coming from Emery. The album closer, "Dear Death Part 2" is a great way to end things. It sounds very punk-ish, and is extremely fun. It would be a great song to dance to, live.
...In Shallow Seas We Sail will please anyone that likes Emery. For fans of the EP this is a must-buy. For those new to Emery, this is a great representation of who they are--an extremely talented rock band that you can trust to make sure things won't ever be too cliche, and have great lyrics and a sound that will make them very popular among Christian and mainstream listeners.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Family Force 5- Dance Or Die With A Vengeance
Last summer, we were introduced to a side of Family Force 5 that a lot of us were slightly uncomfortable with. A few "fans" were lost, but the real ones stuck with them. New fans were made recently on the AP Tour with well-known names such as The Maine, Hit The Lights, and 3OH!3. And now Family Force 5 gives us fans a little something in the form of a remix album.
This album has a lot more dance than even Dance or Die, and should probably be marked TRUE FANS ONLY. Not to say a few people new to Family Force 5 won't like it, but for some people I know, this could be a bigger turn off than DOD. Barely any rock elements remain, but was Family Force 5 ever really a rock band? Crunk rock, yes, but can that be considered rock? Probably, but I believe that Business Up Front... was dancy, only that the rock guitars softened it a bit for those not used to that. DOD was a bit more stripped down. Less guitars, more synthesizers. Nobody seemed to notice, but the synths were there all along!
But back to the remix album. Family Force 5 had different bands make their own versions of DOD songs for them. The songs are arranged exactly as they were on the un-remixed version. So "Dance or Die (The Secret Handshake Han Valen Remix)" opens the album, featuring vocals by Luis Dubuc of The Secret Handshake, and a few new lyrics to go with it. Without the guest vocals, the song doesn't sound too different from it's original. The following song is "Get Your Back Off The Wall (3OH!3 Remix)". But don't be worried, the lyrics are exactly the same as it was last time, with no additions by 3OH!3.
I was slightly worried, with bands known for having vulgar lyrics remixing FF5 songs, but, of course, FF5 had to approve it, and so there is no swearing or inappropriateness to be worried about. This remix's intro and closing are kind of annoying, as are a few other tracks on the album. It seems that songs like this were not made to sound better or cool, but elements were added that made it sound like they are there just because they can be, and doesn't help the song at all. Others songs such as "Fever (The Toxic Avenger Remix)" fools the listener with its opening into thinking that it'll be something great, but then ends with the most annoying I've ever heard come from a band.
"Rip It Up (The Pragmatic Remix)" is the first remix of this song on the album. The first time I heard it, I couldn't help but laugh uncontrollably at the drama two minutes into the song between a group of doctors, one of them named "Dr. Disco." Their conversation is utterly hilarious, and makes the song better, as the music isn't all that great. "How In The World (Suave Suarez Remix)," another song that has a double at the end of the album, sounds like a disco song, and will probably take a few listens to get used to. "Party Foul (Smi D's UVS Remix)" is the most dancy song, and definitely my personal favorite. It is completely impossible to not tap your feet when listening to it. It's a lot more fun than FF5's first try, and the addition of the catchy lyrics, "Time to sweat, Time to move, Time to get, In the groove" gives it a humorous side as well. Another song better than its original is "Share it With Me (Smile Future Remix)." On DOD it was by far the worst song to come from this band. Now it's another one of my favorites. The next three songs are kind of dry, and aren't too different than the un-remixed versions, with the exception of "The First Time (Matt Thiessen Remix)", which is a little slower and features vocals by Relient K's lead singer.
Family Force 5's only new song on the album, "Ghostride the Whip" sounds a lot like Kanye West at some points, as it is a break from the dance style of the rest of the album for a little bit of hip-hop. It's got some really great beats that make you want to turn it up loud and roll down your windows. The song after that is an alternate remix of "Rip It Up," but this time only Crouton does vocals, with a little bit of rapping at the end courtesy of Soul Glow. Crouton has a great voice, and this song sounds like something you'd hear on the radio when you're in the mall. His voice is altered a lot, though. The song that closes the album is another "How In The World," this time mixed by David Crowder* Band. It's definitely more dancy, but it is not at all a highlight on the album.
Dance or Die With a Vengeance is definitely fun to listen to, but most if it cannot be taken seriously. Most fans will enjoy it and realize that this is not who Family Force 5 is, but it was still a fun addition to their library that will hopefully hold us over until the fall when we hear the FF5 Christmas album.
This album has a lot more dance than even Dance or Die, and should probably be marked TRUE FANS ONLY. Not to say a few people new to Family Force 5 won't like it, but for some people I know, this could be a bigger turn off than DOD. Barely any rock elements remain, but was Family Force 5 ever really a rock band? Crunk rock, yes, but can that be considered rock? Probably, but I believe that Business Up Front... was dancy, only that the rock guitars softened it a bit for those not used to that. DOD was a bit more stripped down. Less guitars, more synthesizers. Nobody seemed to notice, but the synths were there all along!
But back to the remix album. Family Force 5 had different bands make their own versions of DOD songs for them. The songs are arranged exactly as they were on the un-remixed version. So "Dance or Die (The Secret Handshake Han Valen Remix)" opens the album, featuring vocals by Luis Dubuc of The Secret Handshake, and a few new lyrics to go with it. Without the guest vocals, the song doesn't sound too different from it's original. The following song is "Get Your Back Off The Wall (3OH!3 Remix)". But don't be worried, the lyrics are exactly the same as it was last time, with no additions by 3OH!3.
I was slightly worried, with bands known for having vulgar lyrics remixing FF5 songs, but, of course, FF5 had to approve it, and so there is no swearing or inappropriateness to be worried about. This remix's intro and closing are kind of annoying, as are a few other tracks on the album. It seems that songs like this were not made to sound better or cool, but elements were added that made it sound like they are there just because they can be, and doesn't help the song at all. Others songs such as "Fever (The Toxic Avenger Remix)" fools the listener with its opening into thinking that it'll be something great, but then ends with the most annoying I've ever heard come from a band.
"Rip It Up (The Pragmatic Remix)" is the first remix of this song on the album. The first time I heard it, I couldn't help but laugh uncontrollably at the drama two minutes into the song between a group of doctors, one of them named "Dr. Disco." Their conversation is utterly hilarious, and makes the song better, as the music isn't all that great. "How In The World (Suave Suarez Remix)," another song that has a double at the end of the album, sounds like a disco song, and will probably take a few listens to get used to. "Party Foul (Smi D's UVS Remix)" is the most dancy song, and definitely my personal favorite. It is completely impossible to not tap your feet when listening to it. It's a lot more fun than FF5's first try, and the addition of the catchy lyrics, "Time to sweat, Time to move, Time to get, In the groove" gives it a humorous side as well. Another song better than its original is "Share it With Me (Smile Future Remix)." On DOD it was by far the worst song to come from this band. Now it's another one of my favorites. The next three songs are kind of dry, and aren't too different than the un-remixed versions, with the exception of "The First Time (Matt Thiessen Remix)", which is a little slower and features vocals by Relient K's lead singer.
Family Force 5's only new song on the album, "Ghostride the Whip" sounds a lot like Kanye West at some points, as it is a break from the dance style of the rest of the album for a little bit of hip-hop. It's got some really great beats that make you want to turn it up loud and roll down your windows. The song after that is an alternate remix of "Rip It Up," but this time only Crouton does vocals, with a little bit of rapping at the end courtesy of Soul Glow. Crouton has a great voice, and this song sounds like something you'd hear on the radio when you're in the mall. His voice is altered a lot, though. The song that closes the album is another "How In The World," this time mixed by David Crowder* Band. It's definitely more dancy, but it is not at all a highlight on the album.
Dance or Die With a Vengeance is definitely fun to listen to, but most if it cannot be taken seriously. Most fans will enjoy it and realize that this is not who Family Force 5 is, but it was still a fun addition to their library that will hopefully hold us over until the fall when we hear the FF5 Christmas album.
Friday, May 15, 2009
The Wedding- The Sound The Steel EP (Classic Review)
After the success of The Wedding's sophomore album, fans were surprised to find lead singer Landon Ginnings replaced by Matthew Shelton. So to introduce this rookie vocalist, the band put out their highly anticipated The Sound The Steel EP last summer.
The EP consists of five tracks, six if you include the bonus acoustic/live track found on iTunes when you buy the full album. So it's not long, but not too short. But, still, with only five, the titles of these songs are often difficult remember, considering that they all start with re. "Receive," "Return," "Renew," "Reveal," and "Redeem" are all very close names, and in conversation, things could very easily become very confusing.
"Receive," the first song on this EP, is a decent song that kicks off the new chapter of The Wedding very well, and is a great intro for Shelton's vocals. "Return" is a song packed with energy, and seems to be a call to worship with everything you have--to "Sing of Me, Sing of My love, Like a bullet from a gun." The piano in "Renew" is a great sound for The Wedding. The song does speed up shortly after its soft opening, reverting to The Wedding's southern punk rock sound. But there's more to The Wedding than just a normal punk band. Their music never becomes monotonous, they have great lyrics that have an awesome message, and Shelton's vocals give it a near-perfect touch. His joy seems to overflow out of his mouth when singing, with laughing and screaming, and it's very unique.
"Reveal" is the most energetic song on the EP, and the guitar breakdown about two minutes into the song is genius. I have never seen The Wedding live, but this song would definitely be a great one to have the crowd sing along to. "Redeem" is a beautiful way to end the EP.
This EP is sure to not disappoint fans of The Wedding's previous attempts, and will definitely pick up a few new fans like myself. Hopefully The Wedding will put out a new album someday, cause if they keep going in this direction, it'll be fantastic!
The EP consists of five tracks, six if you include the bonus acoustic/live track found on iTunes when you buy the full album. So it's not long, but not too short. But, still, with only five, the titles of these songs are often difficult remember, considering that they all start with re. "Receive," "Return," "Renew," "Reveal," and "Redeem" are all very close names, and in conversation, things could very easily become very confusing.
"Receive," the first song on this EP, is a decent song that kicks off the new chapter of The Wedding very well, and is a great intro for Shelton's vocals. "Return" is a song packed with energy, and seems to be a call to worship with everything you have--to "Sing of Me, Sing of My love, Like a bullet from a gun." The piano in "Renew" is a great sound for The Wedding. The song does speed up shortly after its soft opening, reverting to The Wedding's southern punk rock sound. But there's more to The Wedding than just a normal punk band. Their music never becomes monotonous, they have great lyrics that have an awesome message, and Shelton's vocals give it a near-perfect touch. His joy seems to overflow out of his mouth when singing, with laughing and screaming, and it's very unique.
"Reveal" is the most energetic song on the EP, and the guitar breakdown about two minutes into the song is genius. I have never seen The Wedding live, but this song would definitely be a great one to have the crowd sing along to. "Redeem" is a beautiful way to end the EP.
This EP is sure to not disappoint fans of The Wedding's previous attempts, and will definitely pick up a few new fans like myself. Hopefully The Wedding will put out a new album someday, cause if they keep going in this direction, it'll be fantastic!
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Family Force 5- Business Up Front/Party In The Back (Classic Review)
Formerly known as The Phamily, brothers Solomon, Josh, and Jacob Olds formed what is now Family Force 5, accompanied by friends Derek Mount and Nathan Currin. In 2006, they debuted with Business Up Front/Party In The Back, having one foot in Maverick Records--a secular record label--and one foot in Gotee Records--a Christian label. With a new remix album drawing near*, it is only appropriate that I would review an FF5 album.
Business Up Front... starts with "Cadillac Phunque," a rock/rap/funk song that is pure fun and introduces the band well to those who aren't familiar with their past. "Kountry Gentlemen," the first single off the album and maybe one of their most recognizable songs, continues with the introducing of this Atlanta based crunk band by telling listeners, "My mama raised me in the durty south, A Kountry Gentleman, So you best watch ur mouth, My mama raised me in the durty south, A Kountry Gentleman, That's what it's all about." "Drama Queen" is a song that is extremely fun to watch live, and with hilarious lyrics that often get stuck in my head, this song is amazing. "Put Ur Hands Up" commands that "Ugly people put ur hands down!" The album suddenly hits a running streak of epic songs as "Love Addict," "Earthquake", "Replace Me", and "Lose Urself" all follow each other in rapid fire, and are possibly their best and most popular songs to date. "Supersonic" allows Josh Olds (aka "Crouton") to use his vocals more than he does in most songs on this album.
The infectious "Numb" closes the album, but only leaves you with wanting to dance more, which may be one of the reasons Family Force 5 re-released this album with three different songs to end it. The album only came with three extra songs, but in my opinion, those three songs were definitely worth buying it a second time. "I Love You To Death" is almost entirely screamo in the chorus, and is one of Family Force 5's hardest songs. "Face Down" and "Never Let Me Go" are two of Family Force 5's most spiritual songs. "Face Down" is a bit slower than fans of the original album might be comfortable with, but otherwise is a great track. "Never Let Me Go" is another really fun song that has a fantastic breakdown at the end.
Family Force 5 has made a tremendous impact on what Christian music can be. Even though God is not mentioned a whole lot, the lyrics are clean and having the album distributed by both Christian and secular markets, it's a great thing to have good clean music for kids to listen to, even if they aren't listening to "Christian" music. Business Up Front/Party In The Back is a sure sign that we'll have some more epic music to come from this band in the near future.
*Look for Dance Or Die With A Vengeance coming May 19th.
Business Up Front... starts with "Cadillac Phunque," a rock/rap/funk song that is pure fun and introduces the band well to those who aren't familiar with their past. "Kountry Gentlemen," the first single off the album and maybe one of their most recognizable songs, continues with the introducing of this Atlanta based crunk band by telling listeners, "My mama raised me in the durty south, A Kountry Gentleman, So you best watch ur mouth, My mama raised me in the durty south, A Kountry Gentleman, That's what it's all about." "Drama Queen" is a song that is extremely fun to watch live, and with hilarious lyrics that often get stuck in my head, this song is amazing. "Put Ur Hands Up" commands that "Ugly people put ur hands down!" The album suddenly hits a running streak of epic songs as "Love Addict," "Earthquake", "Replace Me", and "Lose Urself" all follow each other in rapid fire, and are possibly their best and most popular songs to date. "Supersonic" allows Josh Olds (aka "Crouton") to use his vocals more than he does in most songs on this album.
The infectious "Numb" closes the album, but only leaves you with wanting to dance more, which may be one of the reasons Family Force 5 re-released this album with three different songs to end it. The album only came with three extra songs, but in my opinion, those three songs were definitely worth buying it a second time. "I Love You To Death" is almost entirely screamo in the chorus, and is one of Family Force 5's hardest songs. "Face Down" and "Never Let Me Go" are two of Family Force 5's most spiritual songs. "Face Down" is a bit slower than fans of the original album might be comfortable with, but otherwise is a great track. "Never Let Me Go" is another really fun song that has a fantastic breakdown at the end.
Family Force 5 has made a tremendous impact on what Christian music can be. Even though God is not mentioned a whole lot, the lyrics are clean and having the album distributed by both Christian and secular markets, it's a great thing to have good clean music for kids to listen to, even if they aren't listening to "Christian" music. Business Up Front/Party In The Back is a sure sign that we'll have some more epic music to come from this band in the near future.
*Look for Dance Or Die With A Vengeance coming May 19th.
Saturday, May 9, 2009
Emery Update
A new song was posted on Emery's Purevolume page called "Piggy Bank Lies."
Another new preorder option for ...In Shallow Seas We Sail has been put on both Smartpunk and Interpunk. You can get the CD with a 7" vinyl picture disc with "Cutthroat Collapse" and a b-side called "Open Hands, Closed Eyes" from Interpunk. You can get the an autographed booklet with your preorder if you get it from SmartPunk.
So you have a lot of preorder options, make sure you pick a good one!
Another new preorder option for ...In Shallow Seas We Sail has been put on both Smartpunk and Interpunk. You can get the CD with a 7" vinyl picture disc with "Cutthroat Collapse" and a b-side called "Open Hands, Closed Eyes" from Interpunk. You can get the an autographed booklet with your preorder if you get it from SmartPunk.
So you have a lot of preorder options, make sure you pick a good one!
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
PRE-ORDER EMERY'S NEW CD!
Emery posted a more official-er preorder site on their Twitter (wow, I never thought Twitter would actually come in handy) and you can link up to it here. It come with a nasty t-shirt that I want really bad. Their single "Cutthroat Collapse" is available on iTunes, and the full album will be out June 2nd.
Monday, May 4, 2009
Update 5/4 (MY BIRTHDAY!!!!)
Hi everyone! Today's my birthday! (No need to get me anything) There are a few updates I wish to share:
Skillet has announced that their new album will be titled Awake and will be released this August. It was produced by Howard Benson, who's also worked with Three Days Grace, Flyleaf, Daughtry, and POD. Kind of funny, since their last album was called Comatose. Comatose? Awake? They are currently on the Comatose Tour with Disciple and Decyfer Down, which, much like last year, is doing very well and selling out a lot.
Ivoryline announced today on their Twitter that they are writing. Keep looking for new stuff from them coming next year.
The Classic Crime has also been updating their Twitter a lot, and lead vocalist Matt McDonald says that they are also writing new music.
Switchfoot. Their new album is coming out in September. And according to RadioU, they are releasing four albums over the course of the next year (?). I'll check back to give you the facts later, but I wouldn't get too excited.
Hawk Nelson is writing new material.
Project 86 has decided on a title and release date for their new album. It's going to be called Picket Fence Cartel and will be released on July 14th. The track listing is as follows:
1. Destroyer
2. The Butcher
3. The Spectacle of Fearsome Acts
4. Dark Angel Dragnet
5. Cold and Calculated
6. Picket Fence Cartel
7. A John Hancock With The Safety Off
8. Two Glass Eyes
9. Cyclonus
10. The Black Brigade
11. To Sand We Return
August Burns Red will be releasing Constellations on the same day as Project 86's new album, so look out for that, cause it'll hit you hard if you don't.
Emery's new album is up for preorder, and you can get it here. It releases June 2nd.
Tomorrow, Decyfer Down releases their sophmore album, Crash, which, if it's anything like their debut, is no big deal. But, also, The Devil Wears Prada releases With Roots Above And Branches Below, which is completely amazing if you haven't heard it yet.
So, all in all, the following are the bands that are working on albums or have albums coming out in the future:
Decyfer Down, The Devil Wears Prada, The Drawing Room (Joel from TFK's side project), Family Force 5, Emery, Hawk Nelson, Everyday Sunday, Project 86, Stryper, Flyleaf, Skillet, Switchfoot, Pillar, House of Heroes, Relient K, Showbread, Thousand Foot Krutch, Spoken, Secret & Whisper, Breaking The Silence, The Almost, and The River Empires (Falling Up's side project).
That's a lot to look forward to! Don't forget to follow me on Twitter, and check back a lot so you can be up to date on what's going on!
-FISHER
Skillet has announced that their new album will be titled Awake and will be released this August. It was produced by Howard Benson, who's also worked with Three Days Grace, Flyleaf, Daughtry, and POD. Kind of funny, since their last album was called Comatose. Comatose? Awake? They are currently on the Comatose Tour with Disciple and Decyfer Down, which, much like last year, is doing very well and selling out a lot.
Ivoryline announced today on their Twitter that they are writing. Keep looking for new stuff from them coming next year.
The Classic Crime has also been updating their Twitter a lot, and lead vocalist Matt McDonald says that they are also writing new music.
Switchfoot. Their new album is coming out in September. And according to RadioU, they are releasing four albums over the course of the next year (?). I'll check back to give you the facts later, but I wouldn't get too excited.
Hawk Nelson is writing new material.
Project 86 has decided on a title and release date for their new album. It's going to be called Picket Fence Cartel and will be released on July 14th. The track listing is as follows:
1. Destroyer
2. The Butcher
3. The Spectacle of Fearsome Acts
4. Dark Angel Dragnet
5. Cold and Calculated
6. Picket Fence Cartel
7. A John Hancock With The Safety Off
8. Two Glass Eyes
9. Cyclonus
10. The Black Brigade
11. To Sand We Return
August Burns Red will be releasing Constellations on the same day as Project 86's new album, so look out for that, cause it'll hit you hard if you don't.
Emery's new album is up for preorder, and you can get it here. It releases June 2nd.
Tomorrow, Decyfer Down releases their sophmore album, Crash, which, if it's anything like their debut, is no big deal. But, also, The Devil Wears Prada releases With Roots Above And Branches Below, which is completely amazing if you haven't heard it yet.
So, all in all, the following are the bands that are working on albums or have albums coming out in the future:
Decyfer Down, The Devil Wears Prada, The Drawing Room (Joel from TFK's side project), Family Force 5, Emery, Hawk Nelson, Everyday Sunday, Project 86, Stryper, Flyleaf, Skillet, Switchfoot, Pillar, House of Heroes, Relient K, Showbread, Thousand Foot Krutch, Spoken, Secret & Whisper, Breaking The Silence, The Almost, and The River Empires (Falling Up's side project).
That's a lot to look forward to! Don't forget to follow me on Twitter, and check back a lot so you can be up to date on what's going on!
-FISHER
Saturday, May 2, 2009
The AP Tour 2009 (Concert Review)
For years, people have been raving about Family Force 5's live show. Jesus Freak Hideout and CCM have both at least once voted Family Force 5 as having the best live show out there. And, finally, Family Force 5 decided to show their faces in Connecticut this year on the AP Tour, featuring A Rocket To The Moon, Hit The Lights, 3OH!3, and The Maine.
After finally finding somewhere to park for $20, I reached the venue at 4:30. There was already a line wrapped around the building, but not too bad. The show was sold out, so the line grew quickly, until I could not see the end. But before the doors opened at six, I spotted Xanadu walking past me. I yelled, "Hey Xanadu!" He spun around like he was making sure I wasn't talking to somebody else and said, "Me?" I laughed and we got into a conversation about the band, when they were going on, Chapstique's broken knee, how Xanadu likes not being in the band because he can sleep. He's a pretty funny guy.
After he left, my friend called and informed me that Chapstique would have the VIP passes tonight (In case you didn't know, for this tour, Family Force 5 has been posting clues on their Twitter about where they keep the passes each night, and if you get them you can stand along the side of the stage and after hang with them in their bus--pretty sick). I don't have internet on my phone, so he was a big help. After that, the line started moving and I got a nice picture of a bus with the AP Tour banner on the side (which I will post later with the rest of my pics). When I got in, my friend called and told me that in order to get the passes I would need to do ten pushups, ten lunges, and draw a picture of a draygon. I immediately saw ChapStique and ran over to him, only to find that a girl was finishing up the last of her ten pushups. So after realizing I wasn't going to get the passes, I got back to my spot in the crowd.
The club filled up quickly, and not long after A Rocket To The Moon opened up with the song "Dakota" from their Greetings From... EP. They were pretty good, and they got the crowd hyped up quickly.
The crowd was unbelievable. Almost everyone was moshing, and people were body slamming and pushing right in the center where I was, so I slowly kind of drifted to the right of the stage so I didn't get killed.
After A Rocket To The Moon, Hit The Lights took the stage. I wasn't too impressed with them, especially not after all those "f*** yeah"s the lead singer dished out. I was beginning to wonder if this was all worth it, being pushed around and hearing all this crap.
But after Hit The Lights moved off the stage and Family Force 5 came out, I realized I would not miss this show for the world. They opened with the song "Kountry Gentleman" and I soon understood why Family Force 5's live show is so hyped up. It's because the entire show is an adrenaline rush. Family Force 5 brings twice the energy felt through their music, and it is unbelievable. After that, they went straight into "Fever", which was followed by "Drama Queen," which had a very different opening that was very fun. For this song, Nadaddy got to bang on the Family Force 5000 a bit, which is the band's gigantic drum machine with a bunch of cool buttons that light up when hit. "Get Your Back Off The Wall" was the next song, and then came "Radiator." For "Radiator" green lasers shot across the ceiling of the club, and the whole thing kind of reminded me of their music video, which is pretty sick. Halfway through the song, Soul Glow randomly began to sing a line from "I Kissed A Girl" by Katy Perry. It was kind of funny, and I didn't catch it at first, so while I was watching it on my camera I was kind of surprised. After they sang "Party Foul" and then "Numb", in which they encouraged people to make a circle and breakdance if you could. If you couldn't Soul Glow warned you should "run away like you got the swine flu." For this song they all danced like wild with the help of Xanadu. After this song Soul Glow introduced everyone in the band and talked about the remix album coming out soon. They didn't slow down for long though, because shortly after was "Supersonic." Crouton got off of the drums and helped with lead vocals, which was pretty amazing. After, Soul Glow put on his hulk gloves and ended with "Love Addict" and "Earthquake", both of which were epic. For Earthquake Soul Glow made a rap about New Haven and The AP Tour, all which was a little hard to make out what he was saying, but I got the idea.
I left after Family Force 5 was done, since I was packed with energy and wasn't ready for 3OH!3 to kill it with their vulgar lyrics. I got myself a pretty sick shirt featuring Soul Glow's hulk glove. And when I stepped out of the venue, the only thing going through my head was "WOW!" Family Force 5 put on the most energetic and fun live show I have ever attended. The next chance I get to see them (which might be in November) there is no possible way I am missing out.
After finally finding somewhere to park for $20, I reached the venue at 4:30. There was already a line wrapped around the building, but not too bad. The show was sold out, so the line grew quickly, until I could not see the end. But before the doors opened at six, I spotted Xanadu walking past me. I yelled, "Hey Xanadu!" He spun around like he was making sure I wasn't talking to somebody else and said, "Me?" I laughed and we got into a conversation about the band, when they were going on, Chapstique's broken knee, how Xanadu likes not being in the band because he can sleep. He's a pretty funny guy.
After he left, my friend called and informed me that Chapstique would have the VIP passes tonight (In case you didn't know, for this tour, Family Force 5 has been posting clues on their Twitter about where they keep the passes each night, and if you get them you can stand along the side of the stage and after hang with them in their bus--pretty sick). I don't have internet on my phone, so he was a big help. After that, the line started moving and I got a nice picture of a bus with the AP Tour banner on the side (which I will post later with the rest of my pics). When I got in, my friend called and told me that in order to get the passes I would need to do ten pushups, ten lunges, and draw a picture of a draygon. I immediately saw ChapStique and ran over to him, only to find that a girl was finishing up the last of her ten pushups. So after realizing I wasn't going to get the passes, I got back to my spot in the crowd.
The club filled up quickly, and not long after A Rocket To The Moon opened up with the song "Dakota" from their Greetings From... EP. They were pretty good, and they got the crowd hyped up quickly.
The crowd was unbelievable. Almost everyone was moshing, and people were body slamming and pushing right in the center where I was, so I slowly kind of drifted to the right of the stage so I didn't get killed.
After A Rocket To The Moon, Hit The Lights took the stage. I wasn't too impressed with them, especially not after all those "f*** yeah"s the lead singer dished out. I was beginning to wonder if this was all worth it, being pushed around and hearing all this crap.
But after Hit The Lights moved off the stage and Family Force 5 came out, I realized I would not miss this show for the world. They opened with the song "Kountry Gentleman" and I soon understood why Family Force 5's live show is so hyped up. It's because the entire show is an adrenaline rush. Family Force 5 brings twice the energy felt through their music, and it is unbelievable. After that, they went straight into "Fever", which was followed by "Drama Queen," which had a very different opening that was very fun. For this song, Nadaddy got to bang on the Family Force 5000 a bit, which is the band's gigantic drum machine with a bunch of cool buttons that light up when hit. "Get Your Back Off The Wall" was the next song, and then came "Radiator." For "Radiator" green lasers shot across the ceiling of the club, and the whole thing kind of reminded me of their music video, which is pretty sick. Halfway through the song, Soul Glow randomly began to sing a line from "I Kissed A Girl" by Katy Perry. It was kind of funny, and I didn't catch it at first, so while I was watching it on my camera I was kind of surprised. After they sang "Party Foul" and then "Numb", in which they encouraged people to make a circle and breakdance if you could. If you couldn't Soul Glow warned you should "run away like you got the swine flu." For this song they all danced like wild with the help of Xanadu. After this song Soul Glow introduced everyone in the band and talked about the remix album coming out soon. They didn't slow down for long though, because shortly after was "Supersonic." Crouton got off of the drums and helped with lead vocals, which was pretty amazing. After, Soul Glow put on his hulk gloves and ended with "Love Addict" and "Earthquake", both of which were epic. For Earthquake Soul Glow made a rap about New Haven and The AP Tour, all which was a little hard to make out what he was saying, but I got the idea.
I left after Family Force 5 was done, since I was packed with energy and wasn't ready for 3OH!3 to kill it with their vulgar lyrics. I got myself a pretty sick shirt featuring Soul Glow's hulk glove. And when I stepped out of the venue, the only thing going through my head was "WOW!" Family Force 5 put on the most energetic and fun live show I have ever attended. The next chance I get to see them (which might be in November) there is no possible way I am missing out.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
.JPG)
