Miss Murder

I havn't listened to much AFI yet, but they've got me sold on Miss Murder. What an awesome song! The melody is extremely catchy; it's impossible not to tap your foot when you're listening to this one. I'm in love with the bass line, and the guitar solos are amazing. The drumming is very impressive as well. The vocals are outstanding - love the screaming - and the lyrics are great, too. I just can't say enough about this song; I can't stop listening to it!
But what I really love is this song's music video ... wow! Definantly one of my favorites, and without a doubt the best video I've watched in a while. The director's cut of the video also features AFI's song Prelude 12/21 which has a haunting mood about it; another great track from AFI's latest album, DECEMBERUNDERGROUND (2006), on which Miss Murder was also recorded.
I'm looking very forward to doing my research on AFI and finding more great tracks by this group; I'm sure I won't be dissapointed. Any AFI fans out there reading this? If so, feel free to leave a comment and let me know which songs are your favorites.
But for now, here's the full length music video for AFI's Miss Murder. Enjoy!

AFI - Miss Murder Music Video (Director's Cut)

Prelude 12/21
AFI

This is what I brought you
This you can keep
This is what I brought
You may forget me
I promise to depart
just promise one thing
Kiss my eyes
And lay me to sleep

This is what I brought you
This you can keep
This is what I brought
You may forget me
I promise you my heart
Just promise to sing
Kiss my eyes and lay me to sleep
Kiss my eyes and lay me to sleep

This is what I thought
I thought you'd need me
This is what I thought
So think me naive
I'd promise you a heart
You'd promise to keep
Kiss my eyes and lay me to sleep
Kiss my eyes and lay me to sleep
Kiss my eyes and lay me to sleep

Miss Murder
AFI

Hey, Miss Murder, can I?
Hey, Miss Murder, can I?
Make beauty stay if I
Take my life?

Whoa-oh-ohh

With just a look, they shook
And heavens bowed before him
Simply a look, can break, your heart
The stars that pierce the sky
He left them all behind
We’re left to wonder why
He left us all
Behind

Hey, Miss Murder, can I?
Hey, Miss Murder, can I?
Make beauty stay if I
Take my life?
Whoa-oh-ohh
(ohh)

Dreams of his crash, won’t pass
Oh, how they all adored him
Beauty will last when spiraled down
The stars that mystify
He left them all behind
And how his children cried
He left us all
Behind

Hey, Miss Murder, can I?
Hey, Miss Murder, can I?
Make beauty stay if I
Take my life?
Whoa-oh-ohh

What's the hook, the twist
Within this verbose mystery?
I would gladly bet my life upon it
That the ghost you love, your ray of light
Will fizzle out without hope
We're the empty set just floating through, wrapped in skin
Ever searching for what we were promised
Reaching for that golden ring we'd never let go
But who would ever let us put put our filthy hands upon it?

Hey, Miss Murder, can I?
Hey, Miss Murder, can I?
Make beauty stay if I
Take my life?
Whoa-oh-ohh

Hey, Miss Murder, can I?
Hey, Miss Murder, can I?
Make beauty stay if I
Take my life?
Whoa-oh-ohh

UPDATE! February 29th, 2008: I am proud to say that after reviewing DECEMBERUNDERGROUND and falling in love with literaly every track, I now own AFI's latest album. Each and every song on the 2006 release is simply stunning. AFI was even better than I expected and is now on my list of favorite groups. I encourage anyone who enjoyed Miss Murder and Prelude 12/21 to check out some of their other work as well.

The Pros And Cons Of Breathing

What can I say? I'm slowly becoming a Fall Out Boy fan.
My sister started it. She was a Fall Out Boy fan first, and she's kinda got me hooked on some of their songs. Of course I was already well-versed in the sounds of Sugar, We're Goin' Down; Dance, Dance; and Thnks Fr Th Mmrs; it was nearly impossible to avoid those ones on mainstream radio when they were first released, and the latter is still fairly popular. However, it was my sister who introduced me to Fall Out Boy's less popular tracks, and I must say they arn't half bad. A little more "pop" then what I usually listen to, but hey, in case you couldn't tell, I listen to just about everything.
So now I have to say my favorite Fall Out Boy songs to date are the following, listed by album ...

Take This To Your Grave (2003)

- Grand Theft Autumn/Where Is Your Boy?
- The Pros And Cons Of Breathing

From Under The Cork Tree (2005)

- Of All The Gin Joints In The World
- Dance, Dance
- Sugar, We're Goin' Down
- I've Got A Dark Alley And A Bad Idea That Says You Should Shut Your Mouth (Summer Song)
- A Little Less Sixteen Candles, A Little More "Touch Me"
- Get Busy Living Or Get Busy Dying (Do Your Part To Save The Scene And Stop Going To Shows)

Infinity On High (2007)

- Thnks Fr Th Mmrs
- This Ain't A Scene, It's An Arms Race
- I've Got All This Ringing In My Ears And None On My Fingers (Truth Hurts Worse)

Yes, I realize that was quite the list, and that this post was meant to be a review for a song rather than a bunch of albums. Therefore, I'm going to move on and get to the point I was trying to make here. Of all the above listed songs, which one is my favorite?
Probably The Pros And Cons Of Breathing. Hence the title of this post. See how that works?
Anyway.
I really love The Pros And Cons Of Breathing, mostly because of the lyrics. Fall Out Boy's bassist and lyricist Pete Wentz writes some really amazing stuff. The melody of this song is great as well; just a really great track overall.

Sadly, Fall Out Boy hasn't filmed a music video for this song and chances are they never will. So, instead, you guys get this random video off YouTube. Incredibly boring, but lets you hear an amazing song.
So here it is; The Pros And Cons Of Breathing by Fall Out Boy.

Fall Out Boy - The Pros And Cons Of Breathing Video

The Pros And Cons Of Breathing
Fall Out Boy

Bury me standing under your window
With this cinder block in hand
Yeah, cause no one will ever feel like this again
And if I could move I’m sure it would only be to crawl back to you
I must have dragged my guts a block
They were gone by the time we…

Whoa, I want to hate you half as much as I hate myself
You know that I could crush you with my voice
Whoa, I want to hate you half as much as I hate myself
You know that I could crush you with my voice

Stood on my roof and tried to see you forgetting about me
Hide the details, I don’t want to know a thing

I hate the way you say my name like it’s something secret
My pen is the barrel of the gun, remind me which side you should be on

Whoa, I want to hate you half as much as I hate myself
You know that could crush you with my voice
Whoa, I want to hate you half as much as I hate myself
You know that I could crush you with my voice

Stood on my roof and tried to see you forgetting about me
Hide the details, I don’t want to know a thing

I wish that I was as invisible as you make me feel
I wish that I was as invisible as you make me feel

Whoa, I want to hate you half as much as I hate my…
Whoa, I want to hate you half as much as I hate my…

Whoa, I want to hate you half as much as I hate myself
You know that I could crush you with my voice
Whoa, I want to hate you half as much as I hate myself
You know that I could crush you with my voice

Here (In Your Arms)

I have to say that I'm madly in love with Hellogoodbye's song Here (In Your Arms).
Like usual, it's the lyrics. Another sweet, honest love song that completely melts my heart. That, matched with the techno/dance beat of this track make it more or less irresistable. An extremelly fun song to listen to that makes you feel good, too.
I encourage fans of this type of music to check out the rest of the Zombies! Aliens! Vampires! Dinosaurs! album. Almost all the tracks on that album, which is Hellogoodbye's latest, are very techno style and tons of fun to listen to. However, Here (In Your Arms) is the obvious standout, in my opinion; it has won me over in the same way it has fans of Hellogoodbye and otherwise.
Personally, I think the music video is ridiculous, and extremelly distracting from what I think is the message behind the song. I think Hellogoodbye could have done much better with the video ... but that's just me.
Anyway, here it is; Here (In Your Arms) by Hellogoodbye.

Hellogoodbye - Here (In Your Arms) Music Video

Here (In Your Arms)
Hellogoodbye

I like, where we are
When we drive, in your car
I like, where we are... here

Cause our lips, can touch
And our cheeks, can brush
Our lips can touch... here

Well you are the one, the one that lies close to me
Whispers "Hello, I miss you quite terribly"
I fell in love, in love with you suddenly
Now there's no place else I could be, but here in your arms

I like, where you sleep
When you sleep, next to me
I like, where you sleep... here

Cause our lips, can touch
And our cheeks, can brush
Our lips can touch... here

Well you are the one, the one that lies close to me
Whispers "Hello, I miss you quite terribly"
I fell in love, in love with you suddenly
Now there's no place else I could be, but here in your arms

Our lips, can touch
Our lips, can touch...here

Well you are the one, the one that lies close to me
Whispers "Hello, I miss you quite terribly"
I fell in love, in love with you suddenly
Now there's no place else I could be, but here in your arms

Well you are the one, the one that lies close to me
Whispers "Hello, I miss you quite terribly"
I fell in love, in love with you suddenly
Now there's no place else I could be, but here in your arms

Here in your arms
Here in your arms

Issakar - "The Times"

I have not heard much about Issakar recently. They are a local band (for me, anyway; got their start in Portland, Oregon, USA), and honestly, I probably would have never heard of them if they hadn't played live at my church camp three years ago. That's when my sister won an autographed copy of their album The Times (2005) and I first heard their music.
I think these guys have a lot of potential. The lead singer, Josiah Warneking, has a voice that easily makes the transition from a soft ballad to an edgy rock track. He is also the talent behind the keyboard, which is present throughout the album. The rest of the band is very talented as well; Dustin Erhardt is on lead guitar and backing vocals, Josh Miller plays acoustic guitar and sings accompanyment, Justin Fish plays bass, and Robbie Tice is on drums. Together, these guys create a sound that unique and promising. I always thought with time, Issakar would be great.
I hadn't looked them up in a while, not until I decided today that I wanted to write an album review for The Times on music.is.life. That's when I decided to Google the band, see where they were these days.
Looks like Issakar has only become better. They released a new album, Every Time It Rains, in October of 2007 and I look forward to listening to the tracks on their latest album. As quoted from the band's website, their sophomore album is "a cross between Rascal Flatts and The Fray, but influenced by The Beatles ;-)". Yeah, the smily was on their webiste.
Issakar also has tour dates booked across Oregon and Washinton State, and are traveling to Scottsdale, Arizona in April. Their music is now being featured on radio stations in Spokane, Washington and they hope to expand to other stations soon.
I'm extremelly pleased to hear that this band has come so far; I always thought they had such good potential. Now knowing that they have a new album out, writing a review for their debut seems kind of silly, but it is the only music of theirs I know. As much as I liked The Times, I know Every Time It Rains will not be dissapointing, and I look extremelly forward to listening to it as soon as possible; I may even review it on this site ;)
For now, here's a review for Issakar's The Times (2005).

Issakar - The Times

1. Guilty - A very powerful first track. Issakar sets a tone for their album right off the bat, establishing a religous message in Guilty's lyrics. Even besides the message, this track is very enjoyable, with strong vocals and a good melody to back it up.
2. Come Away - A wonderful example of the vocal diversity of this group. While the first time they sing the chorus is softer, the repeated chorus is sung much deeper, more rock, with excellent backing vocals. A slightly repetitive track, but not so much to bore the listener.
3. Hero - Another good example of vocal diversity. This song has a more original sound, with powerful electric guitar chords making a big impression in the verses. This song has a great melody as well as beautiful, meaningful lyrics.
4. How Great - The keyboard makes its first big influence in what will be a reoccuring theme throughout The Times. Starting off softer and growing into a deep, passionate chorus, this song is great to listen to. Not an overly original track, nor is it one that really stands out on the album, but it can certainly stand on its own.
5. Beach - This track picks up the pace with a catchy melody, backed by a hi-hat on the drums that keeps the tempo going along at a steady pace. The rap bridge is presented well, considering rap is not this group's main style of music. A very fun track to listen to.
6. Dry Bones - Definantly one of my favorites. The lyrics alone were enough to sell me on the song, but the instrumentation and the execution of the vocals are phenominal as well. Again, the keyboard plays a major role in the melody. I just think there's a lot of passion in this song, as well as a great message.
7. One Voice - Not an overly exciting track, but I really do like the message behind the lyrics, which speak of reaching for your goals no matter now tough the circumstances (don't let the sun / set on your dreams / if your voice is a whisper / make it louder than screams ... know that one voice can change the world ). A slower track with a lot of soul.
8. True Identity - Issakar must have brought in a different lead singer for this one; there's no way this is the same person who sang the lead for the other tracks. If I'm correct in my assumption, the guys made a good move; the man who sings this track's lead has an almost operatic voice which suits the song well. Not a stellar track, but I do like the lyrics a lot, and the melody of the chorus.
9. Still - Another track with a big, beautiful keyboard melody. This song has phenomenal lyrics that can be understood in a religious way or otherwise. A lot of passion behind this track; lyrically, it may be one of my favorites, and the melody isn't bad either.
10. Gesthemane - Starts off a little shaky, with lyrics that, in my opinion, are hard to understand. The song gets better as it goes and has a quite appealing chorus, but overall, just not one of my favorites.
11. A Child's Cry - More keyboard melodies and acoustic guitars strum to accompany tragically sad lyrics. A beautiful song about hope in the face of disaster, with a touching religious message if you chose to interprit the lyrics in that way. A lot of passion and soul behind these lyrics, especially right before the chorus. A terribly sad song, but still beautiful.
12. One Million Songs - A plain and simple love song. A keyboard & acoustic melody once again, which suits perfectly. A great vocal rangs for Josiah. The lyrics are sweet and this song is just overall pleasant to hear.
13. Obsession - A very soft, quiet track to wrap up the album. Once again, the keyboard and acoustic come together to create a beautiful background for fantastic lyrics. Another love song, the lyrics for the final track are a bit more passionate than One Million Songs'. Just a beautiful track to listen to, and a great close to the album.

I encourage you to check out this group for yourself, even if you're not big on religious music. They have a very good sound that is appealing to someone of any belief. Issakar may not be big yet, but they can be ... and they're slowly getting there.

Issakar's band website is a great place to learn more about this group and what they're about, as well as tour dates and other information, if you are interested.

Sadly, I could not find any videos on the Internet of Issakar :( So instead of a video, I will post the lyrics to Dry Bones, one of my favorites. I cannot find official lyrics for this on the internet, either (might show how little know Issakar is at the moement...) so I am typing them up on my own. Please bear with me, there are sure to be typos and some of the lyrics may be wrong as well. Hopefully it will give you a feel for the song, and if you know I've written something wrong don't hesitate to leave a comment and correct me!

And if anyone has listened to any or all of Every Time It Rains, please, leave a comment and let me and other music.is.life readers know what you thought of Issakar's latest! It would be very much appreciated!

Dry Bones
Issakar

Her mirror contains no mercy
In what it shows
A broken shattered image
Is all she knows
A bed of wilted roses
Is all she sees
Her satin heart is tearing
She cannot breathe

Her faith has all but faded
Her hope a dream
Her world, it falls around her
It hides her screams

Rejected, tormented
Her mind is ever captive
Darkness is bent on stealing
Her will to live

Breathe life, breathe life
Into these dry and empty bones
Yeah, breathe life
Breathe life
Into these dry and empty bones

Her strength is slowly waiving
From the years of pain
Her visions dark and shaded
From clouds of shame

So jaded, frusterated
She feels she's more than far away
Her soul is reaching out for
The light of day

Breathe life, breathe life
Into these dry and empty bones
Yeah, breathe life
Breathe life
Into these dry and empty bones...

Breathe (2 AM)

I really love this song.
When I was little, I used to listen to Jewel ... anyone know her? My mom had one of her CD's and when I was little I used to put it in and listen to it to put me to sleep ... yeah, even as an eight-year-old I was addicted to music. Of course I was too young to really understand the depth of Jewel's lyrics, but I loved the songs.
Anyway, you're probably thinking, "Okay, girl, where you going with this ... "
I just think Anna Nalick sounds a lot like Jewel, in my opinion. I'm not sure what about them exactly sounds the same ... just some of the inflections in Anna's voice remind me a lot of Jewel, I guess.
Either way, this song is breathtaking. Anna has an amazing voice, and the lyrics of this song are so deep and so pure. Just a really powerful, moving song, with a lot of meaning behind it. The music video is beautiful as well.
Here's Breathe (2 AM) by Anna Nalick.

Anna Nalick - Breathe (2 AM) Music Video

Breathe (2 AM)
Anna Nalick

2 AM and she calls me 'cause I'm still awake
"Can you help me unravel my latest mistake?
I don't love him, winter just wasn't my season."
Yeah we walk through the doors, so accusing their eyes
Like they have any right at all to criticize
Hypocrites, you're all here for the very same reason

'Cause you can't jump the track, we're like cars on a cable
And life's like an hourglass glued to the table
No one can find the rewind button, girl
So cradle your head in your hands

And breathe... just breathe
Oh breathe, just breathe

May he turned 21 on the base at Fort Bliss
"Just a day" he said down to the flask in his fist,
"Ain't been sober, since maybe October of last year."
Here in town you can tell he's been down for a while
But, my God, it's so beautiful when the boy smiles
Wanna hold him, maybe I'll just sing about it

Cause you can't jump the track, we're like cars on a cable,
And life's like an hourglass glued to the table
No one can find the rewind button, boys
So cradle your head in your hands

And breathe... just breathe
Oh breathe, just breathe

There's a light at each end of this tunnel
You shout 'cause you're just as far in as you'll ever be out
And these mistakes you've made, you'll just make them again
If you only try turning around.

2 AM and I'm still awake, writing a song
If I get it all down on paper, it's no longer inside of me
Threatening the life it belongs to
And I feel like I'm naked in front of the crowd
Cause these words are my diary, screaming out loud
And I know that you'll use them however you want to

But you can't jump the track, we're like cars on a cable
And life's like an hourglass glued to the table
No one can find the rewind button now
Sing it if you understand

And breathe, just breathe
Woah breathe, just breathe
Oh breathe, just breathe
Oh breathe, just breathe

Paramore - "Riot!"

While their first album was released in 2005, Paramore's second, Riot! (2007), has definantly put this band on the map.
I'm actually quite impressed with this group, and their newest album. I had never heard of them until Riot! started becoming so popular, and that's when I decided to check them out. I was instantly surprised that the frontman was not a man at all, but a young woman; how stereotypical of me. I truely am ashamed. But really, it seems there are no mainstream groups out there with female vocals leading the songs; almost all the groups in the punk-rock scene are made up of all guys, and any of the girls in this genre seem to record as an individual artist. After the initial shock wore off, I was quite pleased to see a woman heading an alternative group. Good for Hayley Williams!
And boy, once I started listening, I was also impressed by her voice. Hayley sings with a lot of heart, and that shines through in both Paramore's recorded tracks and live shows. Hayley's vocals paired with the rest of the band's talents on guitar and drums make for a really pleasing sound. Put that together with the kind of lyrics this group has come up with, and you've got yourself one heck of an album; and Riot! has proved to be just that, bringing Paramore into the mainstream spotlight and even landing them a 2008 Grammy Nomination for Best New Artist.

Grammy Update, February 13th 2008: Paramore fans will be disapointed to hear that they did not win the Grammy for Best New Artist at the awards on February 10th. Amy Winehouse fans, however, will be delighted to hear that she took the award instead.

Paramore - Riot!

1. For A Pessimist, I'm Pretty Optimistic - A catchy track; a good start to the album. I don't find anything about this track that especially stands out. I think this song gives you a good idea as of what's to come in the album, and the bridge especially gives you a taste for Hayley's vocal talents.
2. That's What You Get - A touch more "pop"-y than the previous track, it's also a more appealing track overall. The lyrics in this one probably mean more to this group's target audience (asking the question, "why do we like to hurt so much?"), and the beat, especially the chorus, is addicting.
3. Hallelujah - A wonderful track. The lyrics to this song are very deep and thoughtful, and the vocals are pure; it seems every note is hit effortlessly. Slightly softer in the beginning, the song picks up a bit after the first chorus and it just grows from there. Whether it has a religious significance to you or not, many people should be able to appreciate this track.
4. Misery Business - The song which may be this group's most popular to date. Probably the most original in sound on the album, this track has you hooked from the opening melody and the driving beat keeps you listening all the way through. The vocals are full of raw emotion, and you feel this song rather than hearing it in most parts.
5. When It Rains - The lyrics to this song absolutely blow me away and make this track one of my favorites on the album. The drum beat and bass line keep this song moving along at a steady pace, and the fading guitar chords add a nice touch. Just a great song overall; softer than the other tracks without sacrificing any of the quality.
6. Let The Flames Begin - Another good, strong track. While the first verse seems soft and you expect another softer track, the chorus proves you wrong. The lyrics in this song are fabulous and are presented with exceptional talent.
7. Miracle! - This song is strong from the opening melody, but if the melody isn't enough to get you hooked, the lyrics will do the trick. Again, these powerful lyrics are presented with enough emotion to really help the listner feel the meaning behind the song. A little different than the others on the album, I really like this track; another of my favorites.
8. Crushcrushcrush - Maybe Paramore's second most popular to date, after Misery Business. The driving beat just makes you want to dance; again, a strong bass and drum line. The chorus is catchy, and I'm in love with the bridge. A track to play nice and loud.
9. We Are Broken - A lovely ballad to quiet things down after the ending of the previous track. The keyboard makes a significant apperance for the first time on the album, and it works wonders for the mood of the track. Throughout the whole first verse, it's as if you're waiting for the song to really begin; but with the first lines of the chorus ... those chords give you chills. Hayley's vocals add a painfully beautiful element that really make this song what it is.
10. Fences - This track picks things up again after We Are Broken. The swing style beat is impossible to ignore; definantly a toe-tapping song. Again, the lyrics are presented exceptionally well, especially at the end of the chorus (this is your night / so smile / 'cause you'll go out in style). This is a fun song to listen to and is another one of my favorites; it gets stuck in my head all the time!
11. Born For This - The echo on the vocals give this track a completelly different feel than the rest of the songs on the album; you can tell the group just had a blast recording this song. Besides the awesome melody and vocals, the lyrics are outstanding as well. A great close to the album.

Paramore sound like a good group? I encourage you to check them out for yourself.

The lyrics for all the songs on the Riot! album as well as Paramore's first album, All We Know Is Falling (2005), plus lyrics for their B-side tracks and more can be found on this website.

And here's the music video for Crushcrushcrush, so you can get a feel for what some of thier songs sound like. Enjoy!

Paramore - Crushcrushcrush Music Video

Hero/Heroine

As a new group, I think Boys Like Girls is off to a great start.
Their first album, Boys Like Girls (2006), has quite a few great tracks. The Great Escape may be their most popular; I'm sure any fan of mainstream rock has heard this one on the radio. Some of the album's other tracks have gained popularity among fans who wanted to hear more of what this band has to offer; Heels Over Head and Five Minutes to Midnight caught the attention of this new group's growning fan base.
My favorite song by Boys Like Girls, however, is Hero/Heroine; specifically, the Tom Lord-Alge Mix. It's a pure, honest song; just kinda makes you feel good. The lyrics are sweet, and the melody and vocals are catchy and present the mood of the song well. And the "newer" version of the music video makes me smile :)
Here are the lyrics and new music video to Hero/Heroine. Keep it up, "Boys"; you've definantly on the right track.

Sorry the video quality isn't great :( Best I could find.

Boys Like Girls - Hero/Heroine Official Music Video

Hero/Heroine
Boys Like Girls

It's too late baby, there's no turning around
I've got my hands in my pocket and my head in a cloud
This is how I do
When I think about you
I never thought that you could break me apart
I keep a sinister smile and a hole in my heart
You want to get inside
Then you need to get in line
But not this time

Cause you caught me off guard
Now I'm running and screaming

I feel like a hero and you are my heroine

I won't try to philosophize
I'll just take a deep breath and I'll look in your eyes
This is how I feel
And its so so real
I got a closet filled up to the brim
With the ghosts of my past and the skeletons
And I don't know why
You'd even try
But I won't lie

You caught me off guard
Now I'm running and screaming

I feel like a hero and you are my heroine
Do you know that your love is the sweetest sin?

And I feel a weakness coming on
Never felt so good to be so wrong
Had my heart on lockdown
And then you turned me around
I'm feeling like a new born child
Every time I get a chance to see you smile
It's not complicated
I was so jaded

And you caught me off guard
Now I'm running and screaming

I feel like a hero and you are my heroine
Do you know that your love is the sweetest sin?

And I feel a weakness coming on
Never felt so good to be so wrong
Had my heart all locked down
And then you turned me around
I'm feeling like a new born child
Every time I get a chance to see you smile
It's not complicated
I was so jaded...

All Fall Down

I think OneRepublic scored big time with this track, All Fall Down, from their album Dreaming Out Loud (2007).
The acoustic opener draws you in, and when the main melody begins, you just get chills; it's simply lovely. I wanna say violin ... but it's not quite right. Maybe a keyboard, set to sound like a violin? The lyrics to this song are fabulous, and the vocals fit the mood of the song so well. Just a really fantastic, beautiful song.
While this track is not one of OneRepublic's well-known songs (they're currently enjoying the attention Apologize, which they recorded alongside artist Timbaland, has recieved from fans of both artists), I think this one is a good example of OneRepublic's talents. While they've yet to find a truely unique sound, there's no doubt these guys are on their way.
While OneRepublic has not created a music video for this song as of now, I found this video on YouTube which somebody made. It lets you hear the song ... kinda boring, though.
So here it is ... All Fall Down by OneRepublic.

OneRepublic - All Fall Down

All Fall Down
OneRepublic

Step out the door and it feels like rain
That's the sound, that's the sound, on your window pane
Take to the streets but you can't ignore
That's the sound, that's the sound, you're waiting for

You feel that your will starts crashing down
Whenever you're will starts crashing down
Whenver your will starts crashing down
That's when you find me

Yeah God love your soul and your aching bones
Take a breath, take a step, maybe down below
Everyone's the same
My fingers to my toes
We just can't get a ride
But we're on the road

If ever your will starts crashing down
Whenever your will starts crashing down
Whenever your will starts crashing down
That's when you find me

Lost 'till you're found
Swim 'till you drown
Know that we all fall down

Love 'till you hate
Jump 'till you break
Know that we all fall down

If ever your will starts crashing down
Whenever your will starts crashing down
If ever your will starts crashing down
That's when you'll find (find) me

Lost 'till you're found
Swim 'till you drown
Know that we all fall down

Love 'till you hate
Jump 'till you break
Know that we all fall down

All fall down, we all fall down, all fall down
We all fall down, all fall down, all fall down

Lost 'till you're found
Swim 'till you drown
Know that we all fall down

Love 'till you hate
Jump 'till you break
Know that we all fall down

The Kill (Bury Me)

I stumbled across 30 Seconds To Mars on accident, as I often do. I was actually trying to remember who sang an entirely different song (100 Years was the track ... for whatever reason, 30 Seconds To Mars popped into my head as the artist. It's actually by Five for Fighting. Cummon; one hundred, thirty, five? Give me a break. There were waaay too many numbers going on in my head. I was bound to get confused). So anyway, I'd never listened to 30 Seconds To Mars before, but after their name popped into my head the other day, I decided to look at their album A Beautiful Lie (2005) ... see if they were any good.
I was actually very impressed. These guys are very good, indeed. Looking first through the album's lyrics (as always) and then sampling the thirty second preview on iTunes (see this? I have a system when it comes to new music), I decided I definantly need to look further into this group. But the song that stands out for me right now is definantly The Kill (Bury Me). Wow! I am still not very familiar with the band, but I think this song would probably be the best representation of their awesome talent ... any Mars fans wanna back me up on that? And if not this song, which is Mars' greatest?
Until I've learned more about them, 30 Seconds To Mars has me sold on the track The Kill (Bury Me), as well as the music video. Any Stephen King fans reading this will recognize several scences from The Shining, especially if you've seen the movie. Even if you can't relate the music video to the movie, it's a beautiful video with enough emotion to give me chills and leave me speechless at the end.
I can't wait to look further into this group and see what else they've come out with. For now, here's The Kill (Bury Me) by 30 Seconds To Mars.

30 Seconds To Mars - The Kill (Bury Me) Music Video

The Kill (Bury Me)
30 Seconds To Mars

What if I wanted to break
Laugh it all off in your face
What would you do? (Oh, oh)
What if I fell to the floor
Couldn't take all this anymore
What would you do, do, do?

Come break me down
Bury me, bury me
I am finished with you

What if I wanted to fight
Beg for the rest of my life
What would you do?
You say you wanted more
What are you waiting for?
I'm not running from you (from you)

Come break me down
Bury me, bury me
I am finished with you
Look in my eyes
You're killing me, killing me
All I wanted was you

I tried to be someone else
But nothing seemed to change
I know now, this is who I really am inside
Finally found myself
Fighting for a chance
I know now, this is who I really am

Ah, ah
Oh, oh
Ah, ah

Come break me down
Bury me, bury me
I am finished with you, you, you
Look in my eyes
You're killing me, killing me
All I wanted was you

Come break me down (bury me, bury me)
Break me down (bury me, bury me)
Break me down (bury me, bury me)

(You say you wanted more)
What if I wanted to break...?
(What are you waiting for?)
Bury me, bury me
(I'm not running from you)
What if I
What if I
What if I
What if I
Bury me, bury me

Ever The Same

This is one of those songs that just strikes a chord somewhere inside of you. Rob Thomas' Ever The Same is simply brilliant.
Maybe it's the melody. The keyboard carries most of this song's lovely melody, but the rhythmic trap set and electric guitar chords keep time and add something to this track.
Maybe it's the lyrics. The lyrics to this song are beautiful ... a classic love story. He's telling her he'll always be there for her ... he'll catch her every time she falls.
Or maybe it's the way these amazing lyrics are presented. Rob Thomas does an outstanding job with this song ... he puts so much emotion into it. Really adds a beautiful element to an already gorgeous song.
So, whatever the reason, this song really gets to me. Mabye it does you, too?
I watched the music video for the first time today, and I must say I was rather impressed. I love the "sketch"-y special effects (reminded me vaguely of Incubus' Drive music video), and the doves. Just a very nice video, I believe.
Anyway. I'm not entirely sure what I love so much about this song, exactly ... just everything together, I suppose. I hope you enjoy it, too.
Here's Ever The Same, by Rob Thomas.

Rob Thomas - Ever The Same Music Video

Ever The Same
Rob Thomas

We were drawn from the weeds
We were brave like soldiers
Falling down under the pale moonlight
You were holding me
Like someone broken
And I couldn't tell you, but I'm telling you now

Just let me hold you while you're falling apart
Just let me hold you and we'll both fall down

Fall on me
Tell me everything you want me to be
Forever with you, forever in me
Ever the same

We would stand in the wind
We were free like water
Flowing down
Under the warmth of the sun
Now it's cold and we're scared
And we've both been shaken
Look at us, man
This doesn't need to be the end

Just let me hold you while you're falling apart
Just let me hold you and we'll both fall down

Fall on me
Tell me everything you want me to be
Forever with you
Forever in me
Ever the same

Call on me
I'll be there for you and you'll be there for me
Forever it's you
Forever in me
Ever the same

You may need me there
To carry all your weight
But you're no burden, I assure
You tide me over
With a warmth I'll not forget
But I can only
Give you love

Fall on me
Tell me everything you want me to be
Forever with you
Forever in me
Ever the same

Call on me
I'll be there for you and you'll be there for me
Forever it's you
Forever in me
Ever the same
Forever with you
Forever in me
Ever the same

Ever the same...

Holiday

Our first request on music.is.life!
For the longest time, I thought about creating an email account for the sole purpose of receiving requests from our readers about what songs to post about on music.is.life ... but then I thought, wait. This is supposed to be about Reno and my favorite music ... it's not exactly a critic site so much as our own expression of our favorite songs. Read the subtitle; "a collection of our favorite songs, artists & albums". But I suppose "our" is a rather vague, nondescript term ...
Anyway.
In the future, I might consider starting an email account where people can request songs, but for now ... this site will stay request-free.
With this one exception.


We got this request via comment on one of our other posts, and turns out, I actually like this song; Holiday by Green Day.
This is one of the rare occasions where I like a song purely for the melody. Sure, some of the lyrics in this song are pretty deep (I like hear the sound of the falling rain / coming down like an Armageddon flame and i beg to dream and differ from the hollow lies an awful lot) but as a whole, I don't think this song is stellar as far as a deep, meaningful message.
However, the melody is extremely addictive, and I think it's got some pretty good guitar solos as well.
For me, this is a song for a certain mood ... when I really feel like punching someone out, you'll find this one blaring on my iPod. It's not one I'll turn on just for the sake of it ... I need to feel it.
Anyway. This post was a little different than most. I don't really have much to say about this song except, well, I like it. I just kinda do.

Please note that while I can censor the lyrics to this song, I have no way of censoring the music video. Obviously. Part of me didn't want to post the video, but after talking about how I only liked the song for the melody ... just posting the lyrics seemed silly.
However, I think I'll try and keep this site as clean as possible. So, find the video yourself if you really want to. Besides, I couldn't find one with any decent video quality on YouTube.

So, here's the lyrics. Sorry my better judgement can't bring me to post the video. Hope ya'll will forgive me.

Holiday
Green Day

Say, hey!

Hear the sound of the falling rain
Coming down like an Armageddon flame (Hey!)
The shame
The ones who died without a name

Hear the dogs howling out of key
To a hymn called "Faith and Misery" (Hey!)
And bleed, the company lost the war today

I beg to dream and differ from the hollow lies
This is the dawning of the rest of our lives
On holiday

Hear the drum pounding out of time
Another protester has crossed the line (Hey!)
To find, the money's on the other side

Can I get another Amen? (Amen!)
There's a flag wrapped around a score of men (Hey!)
A gag, a plastic bag on a monument

I beg to dream and differ from the hollow lies
This is the dawning of the rest of our lives
On holiday

(Hey!)
(Say, hey!)

(3,4)

"The representative from California has the floor"

Sieg Heil to the president Gasman
Bombs away is your punishment
Pulverize the Eiffel towers
Who criticize your government
Bang bang goes the broken glass and
Kill all the ***s that don't agree
Trials by fire, setting fire
Is not a way that's meant for me
Just cause, just cause, because we're outlaws yeah!

I beg to dream and differ from the hollow lies
This is the dawning of the rest of our lives
I beg to dream and differ from the hollow lies
This is the dawning of the rest of our lives

This is our lives on holiday

Hey There Delilah

This masterpiece was nominated for Song of the Year for this year's Grammy awards, and with good reason ... the Plain White T's scored big time with this track, double featured in their albums All That We Need (2005) and Every Second Counts (2006). A Song of the Year nomination is based strictly on the songwriters, and it was frontman Tom Higgenson's lyrics that landed the Plain White T's a spot in the Grammy nominations. The painfully sweet lyrics to this song actually came to Tom after meeting & falling for Columbia University steeplechase runner Delilah DiCrescenzo (pictured).
So, in the words of Tom Higgenson, "Delilah, here's to you"; you're the inspiration to what may be a Grammy-award-winning song. The Plain White T's just might "be making history" with a Song of the Year award, and "it's all because of you".
And even if Hey There Delilah falls short of a Grammy title - it does have some tough competition, such as Carrie Underwood's Before He Cheats and Rhianna's Umbrella, featuring Jay-Z -, it's already become a favorite to many Plain White T's fans who also enjoy a good, honest love song.
Here's the music video and could-be award winning lyrics for the song Hey There Delilah, performed by the Plain White T's. Is this track worthy of Song of the Year? You decide for yourself. But either way, the story behind these lyrics should be enough to warm your heart.

Grammy Update, February 13th 2008: I hate to be the bearer of bad news; Hey There Delilah did not win Song of the Year at the Grammy Awards on February 10th. Instead, the award was given to Amy Winehouse's Rehab, which was written and performed by Amy herself.

Plain White T's - Hey There Delilah Music Video

Hey There Delilah
Plain White T's

Hey there Delilah
What's it like in New York City?
I'm a thousand miles away
But girl, tonight you look so pretty
Yes you do
Times Square can't shine as bright as you
I swear it's true

Hey there Delilah
Don't you worry about the distance
I'm right there if you get lonely
Give this song another listen
Close your eyes
Listen to my voice, it's my disguise
I'm by your side

Oh it's what you do to me
Oh it's what you do to me
Oh it's what you do to me
Oh it's what you do to me
What you do to me

Hey there Delilah
I know times are getting hard
But just believe me, girl
Someday I'll pay the bills with this guitar
We'll have it good
We'll have the life we knew we would
My word is good

Hey there Delilah
I've got so much left to say
If every simple song I wrote to you
Would take your breath away
I'd write it all
Even more in love with me you'd fall
We'd have it all

Oh it's what you do to me
Oh it's what you do to me
Oh it's what you do to me
Oh it's what you do to me

A thousand miles seems pretty far
But they've got planes and trains and cars
I'd walk to you if I had no other way
Our friends would all make fun of us
And we'll just laugh along because we know
That none of them have felt this way
Delilah I can promise you
That by the time we get through
The world will never ever be the same
And you're to blame

Hey there Delilah
You be good and don't you miss me
Two more years and you'll be done with school
And I'll be making history like I do
You'll know it's all because of you
We can do whatever we want to
Hey there Delilah here's to you
This one's for you

Oh it's what you do to me
Oh it's what you do to me
Oh it's what you do to me
Oh it's what you do to me
What you do to me

My Chemical Romance - "The Black Parade"

I know I've already made a post for MCR's song Welcome to the Black Parade, but I made that post before I fell in love with this group's other amazing songs. Later I posted about I Don't Love You after falling in love with the music video. Now that I've purchased almost the entire album off iTunes and become obsessed with almost every track, I feel like writing an album review for My Chemical Romance's latest album, The Black Parade ... otherwise, I may end up writing individual posts for each track, and this just seems much easier.

There really is not a weak track on this album. This group is extremely talented, and it's as if they don't enter the recording studio or set out to film a music video unless they feel strongly about the song and are willing to put in one hundred and ten percent in order to make it the best it can be. And, so far, this passion for their work has produced brilliant songs, albums and music videos time and time again. Not to sound biased or anything (they are my favorite band, after all) ... but I think these guys are simply amazing, and The Black Parade certainly doesn't disappoint. While I enjoy some tracks more than others for personal reasons, I think the album as a whole is simply spectacular.
Another thing I find interesting about this album is that is has a ... "plot", almost. The entire album is basically the story of a man - often referred to as "the patient" - who is dying of a terminal illness. Some songs - such as Cancer and Dead! - are obviously referring to death, but the relevance of others - such as Teenagers and The Sharpest Lives - are less obvious, and you have to think a little harder about how they tie in to the patient's story. I find the fact that this album is all tied together very unique, very creative ... I've never heard of it being done before, and I like it.

My Chemical Romance - The Black Parade

1. The End. - lyrically, this song is absolutely stunning, as are most on the album; some of the vocabulary in these songs make you wonder how many hours these guys spent trying to make the words come out "just right". And boy, they nail it every time, and this song is no exception. A slower track, the vocals and the guitar riffs seem to blend together beautifully. A great start to the album.
2. Dead! - This song is not as lyrically strong as some others, in my opinion, but it's got a strong beat and melody that is maybe more "pop" than the rest of the album ... but still remains darker in true MCR style. A good track overall, but not stellar, in my opinion.
3. This Is How I Disappear - This song is powerful from the opening symbol crash and guitar solo until the last screaming lyrics fade away. Much harsher than the preceding tracks, the band showed the broad range of their talents in this one ... the guitar solos are amazing, as are the vocals; I love how the bridge goes from a spooky, haunted feel into the screaming in the last verses. And, once again, the lyrics are spectacular; not many groups think of using words such as séance in their lyrics.
4. The Sharpest Lives - the minute you hear the dark, staccato guitar at the beginning of this song, you know this track has a dark message. The vocals and the echo of the first verses hold to that eerie tone, and the rhythmic verses hold your attention. When the chorus explodes in electric guitars and symbol crashes, you receive the full effect of this song. Special effects with the vocals and amazing lyrics make this song truly unique. The track ends with the same staccato guitars, and while you know the track has ended, you almost feel as if something was left unsaid.
5. Welcome to the Black Parade - when this song opens with a soft, melancholy keyboard solo, you anticipate a softer track ahead; a break from the dark sounds of the preceding songs. It picks up a bit with a marching band snare, and even when the first verse is repeated - this time, screamed into the microphone - it's not as harsh as the other tracks. It does eventually pick up in intensity, but it never achieves the same dark sound as some other tracks on the album. But, at the same time, the sound of this track suits the lyrics and the emotion behind them.
6. I Don't Love You - the first ballad on the album, this song is truly heartbreaking. This isn't just another break-up song; as the verses and chorus progress, you feel each emotion - denial, regret, and finally, anger - as if you were going through this loss yourself. Each lyric and note is presented beautifully, with the kind of passion in which MCR is undeniably brilliant.
7. House of Wolves - I don't think the lyrics of this song are the strong point. I actually think it's the rhythm of this song that makes this song so unique. A steady tom drum echoes throughout the song, and the electric guitars scream an almost swing-style beat; this song is almost jazzy. The absolutely phenomenal guitar solos in this song set it apart. Not my favorite on the album, but definitely not one to be overlooked.
8. Cancer - the keyboard at the beginning delivers the heart wrenching mood of this song from the first note. As the song goes on, the drum beats pick up, but the song never loses its overwhelmingly sad feel. A bitter sweet, beautiful song, especially if you can relate to the lyrics. As always, the band presents this song with a passion that cannot be ignored.
9. Mama - again, a darker track. The staccato intro gives you an immediate feel for the mood of this song, and the lyrics are presented in similar style. I don't think the style in which they sang this song suits the band as much as some of their other tracks, but at the same time, you can't deny that they pulled it off pretty well. Definitely not my favorite, but you got to give the band credit for branching out in the style of their songs.
10. Sleep - when this song opens in a scratchy tape recording, you know this is a unique track as well. The keyboard joins in shortly after the recording begins, again locking in a mood for the song. Before the first verse, the song picks up as the drums and guitars join in. Once again, this song is extremely strong lyrically. I think the vocals are presented extremely well on this track as well, and the tape recording is a beautiful touch that ties the song together.
11. Teenagers - a very different sound for this band; the melody is definitely one that can get stuck in your head for days. Throughout the verses, a strong base drum keeps time while the rest of the instruments quiet down; the chorus gives the electric guitars a chance to shine, while the vocals are well-presented throughout. A debatable song as far as the lyrics, many people may be turned off by the cursing. But after you understand the message behind the lyrics, you can truly appreciate what this group is trying to tell the world.
12. Disenchanted - an acoustic introduction! A real change from the other tracks on The Black Parade. When the bass and electric join in in the second verse, you get a better feel for the emotion behind the song. More background vocals are featured on this track, which is also a change. This song is full of passion as well; a slower track, but still very powerful, with a shot of reminiscence.
13. Famous Last Words - again, a different sound for MCR. This song is definitely similar in styling to the hard rock heroes of the eighties; one listen to the guitar solos and you'll see what I mean. This song once again opening with a staccato guitar, which by this point in the album listeners may begin to associate with their darker tracks. The powerful lyrics of this track along with the classic rock & roll sound make it a standout.
14. Blood (Hidden Track) - it's a hidden track; of course it's not going to be stellar. Personally, I think recording this track was more for the band's enjoyment rather than trying to make another hit single. Listening to this song reminds you of demon clowns or murder in a chocolate shop ... like it should be on the soundtrack for a musical about an axe murderer. It's got that innocent rhythm with a sinister edge. Quite amusing to listen to, actually; good for a laugh, if nothing else.

Interested in hearing more MCR? I encourage you to find out more about them; they really are an amazing band.

The lyrics for all the songs on all of My Chemical Romance's albums and more can be found on this website.

The songs on MCR's album Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge (2004) are amazing as well. Two I'd recommend looking into are Helena and The Ghost of You.

I'll also post the music video for Famous Last Words so you can listen to one of their darker, harsher tracks. Even if you don't like this song, I'd encourage you to look at My Chemical Romance's other tracks; they are unique in that they are not afraid to try out different styles, and they are talented enough to pull of each one quite nicely. So, please, take a listen, and tell me what you think.

My Chemical Romance - Famous Last Words Music Video



Wow ... that was a hideously long review.
My appologies :)

Rooftops (A Liberation Broadcast)

Reno introduced me to this song, and I really love it.
I believe the message in the lyrics of this song is fairly straight and to-the-point, although I think the lyrics could mean a slightly different thing to everyone who listens to the song. And although the lyrics may be rather repetitive, the band presents this song in a way that keeps the sound from getting old.
I also really enjoy the music video - a lot of emotion in this video, and it really ties in with the song lyrics quite nicely. I think the different scenarios in this video are also an example of how these lyrics could mean something unique to different people.
Here is the music video and lyrics to Rooftops (A Liberation Broadcast) by Lostprophets.

Lostprophets - Rooftops (A Liberation Broadcast) Music Video

Rooftops (A Liberation Broadcast)
Lostprophets

When our time is up
When our lives are done
Will we say we've had our fun?

Will we make a mark this time?
Will we always say we tried?

Standing on the rooftops
Everybody scream your heart out
Standing on the rooftops
Everybody scream your heart out
Standing on the rooftops
Everybody scream your heart out
This is all we got now
Everybody scream your heart out

All the love I've met
I have no regrets
If it all ends now, I'm set

Will we make a mark this time?
Will we always say we tried?

Standing on the rooftops
Everybody scream your heart out
Standing on the rooftops
Everybody scream your heart out
Standing on the rooftops
Everybody scream your heart out
This is all we got now
Everybody scream your heart out

[x2]
Standing on the rooftops
(Wait until the bombs drop)
This is all we got now
(Scream until your heart stops)
Never gonna regret
(Watching every sunset)
We'll listen to your heartbeat
(All the love that we found)

Scream your heart out
Scream your heart out
Scream your heart out
Scream your

Standing on the rooftops
Everybody scream your heart out
Standing on the rooftops
Everybody scream your heart out
Standing on the rooftops
Everybody scream your heart out
This is all we got now
Everybody scream your ...

Same Mistake

I'm not really a fan of James Blunt, but I think he did a nice job with this song, titled Same Mistake. I think the lyrics are absolutely beautiful, and I think his unique voice adds an emotional element that really fits the song.
I'm not very fond of the music video, but if you wish to see it, you can watch it on YouTube.
I will post the lyrics, because, as I said, I think they are very very good.
Enjoy.

Same Mistake
James Blunt

Saw the world turning in my sheets
And once again, I cannot sleep
Walk out the door and up the street
Look at the stars beneath my feet
Remember rights that I did wrong
So here I go

Hello, hello

There is no place I cannot go
My mind is muddy but
My heart is heavy, does it show
I lose the track that loses me
So here I go

oo oooooo ooo ooo oo oooo...

And so I sent some men to fight
And one came back at dead of night
Said he'd seen my enemy
Said he looked just like me
So I set out to cut myself
And here I go

oo oooooo ooo ooo oo oooo...

I'm not calling for a second chance
I'm screaming at the top of my voice
Give me reason, but don't give me choice
'Cause I'll just make the same mistake again]

oo oooooo ooo ooo oo oooo...

And maybe someday we will meet
And maybe talk and not just speak
Don't buy the promises 'cause
There are no promises I keep
And my reflection troubles me
So here I go

oo oooooo ooo ooo oo oooo...

I'm not calling for a second chance
I'm screaming at the top of my voice
Give me reason, but don't give me choice
'Cause I'll just make the same mistake again

oo oooooo ooo ooo oo oooo...

So while I'm turning in my sheets

And once again, I cannot sleep

Walk out the door and up the street

Look at the stars

Look at the stars, falling down

And I wonder where, did I go wrong

I Don't Love You

There are a few reasons why I wanted to post the lyrics and music video for MCR's I Don't Love You on this site. One, because I'm completelly in love with the song (MCR in general, really). Two, because I think the video is very well made and interesting to watch. But third, and probably most importantly, I think this video is an extremelly good example of Gerard Way (lead singer...) and his absolutely amazing talent. He is a phenomenal singer, and not only because he has a good voice... part of what makes Gerard amazing is the fact that he puts his heart and soul into every song. He's got a passion for what he does, and that really stands out. And in his music videos, you can see how much Gerard puts into his music... it's very similar to a good actor getting "in character" before a movie shoot. This is very obvious in the video for I Don't Love You.
This is I Don't Love You by My Chemical Romance... a beautiful song, and a prime example of Gerard's unparalleled talent.

My Chemical Romance - I Don't Love You Music Video

I Don't Love You
My Chemical Romance

Well, when you go
Don't ever think I'll make you try to stay
And maybe when you get back
I'll be off to find another way

And after all this time that you still owe
You're still the good-for-nothing I don't know
So take your gloves and get out
Better get out
While you can

When you go
Would you even turn to say
"I don't love you
Like I did
Yesterday"

Sometimes I cry so hard from pleading
So sick and tired of all the needless beating
But baby when they knock you
Down and out
It's where you outta stay

And after all the blood that you still owe
Another dollar's just another blow
So fix your eyes and get up
Better get up
While you can
Whoa, whooa

When you go
Would you even turn to say
"I don't love you
Like I did
Yesterday"

Well come on, come on

When you go
Would you have the guts to say
"I don't love you
Like I loved you
Yesterday"

I don't love you
Like I loved you
Yesterday

I don't love you
Like I loved you
Yesterday

Your Guardian Angel

I've been in an extremelly musical mood today; might be that fact that I've spent all day (literally...) putting songs old & new onto my new iPod nano video that I got for Christmas... :D I'm a very happy girl. Anyway.
My girl Reno had the song Your Guardian Angel by The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus on her phone (MP3 compatible), and I wanted to listen to it, but I didn't get a chance, and then forgot about the song entirely... until today, when I was browsing iTunes' collection of Red Jumpsuit songs. I found that song, then purchased both the audio track and the music video...
Oh. My. Word.
I was blown away. I dunno, maybe it was just the mood I was in, but this song completelly got to me. I actually started shaking when I watched the music video for the first time... the combination of amazing lyrics, melodies, and vocals, plus the visual effects of the video (stunning!) had me on complete sensory overload. 'Cause I'm wierd like that. But the lead singer (don't know his name... my appologies) obtains a haunting feel to his voice as he sings this beautiful love song, and it literally took my breath away. The acoustic guitars complete the mood, but at the end of the song, when the song explodes with electric guitars... wow.
Anyway. Here's Your Guardian Angel by The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus. This has to be one of the best songs I've heard in a very long time.

The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus - Your Guardian Angel Music Video

Your Guardian Angel
The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus

When I see your smile
Tears run down my face
I can't replace
And now that I'm strong, I have figured out
How this world turns cold and it breaks through my soul
And I know I'll find deep inside me
I can be the one

I will never let you fall
I'll stand up with you forever
I'll be there for you through it all
Even if saving you sends me to heaven

It's okay
It's okay
It's okay...

Seasons are changing
And waves are crashing
And stars are falling all for us
Days grow longer and nights grow shorter
I can show you I'll be the one

I will never let you fall
I'll stand up with you forever
I'll be there for you through it all
Even if saving you sends me to heaven

'Cause you're my, you're my, my...
My true love, my whole heart
Please don't throw that away
'Cause I'm here... for you
Please don't walk away and
Please tell me you'll stay... here

Whoa-oh
Stay
Whoa-oh

Use me as you will
Pull my strings just for a thrill
And I know I'll be okay
Though my skies are turning gray

I will never let you fall
I'll stand up with you forever
I'll be there for you through it all
Even if saving you sends me to heaven

I will never let you fall
I'll stand up with you forever
I'll be there for you through it all
Even if saving you sends me to heaven...

Carol of the Bells

It's Christmas Eve! Merry Christmas everybody!!!
And what would a blog about music be without a few Christmas songs??? ;) I know. I hate Christmas music to; it's just way overdone. When they start playing Christmas songs the day after Thanksgiving, you're fed up with it by the time Christmas comes around!
But I feel slightly oblidged. So here's my favorite Christmas song, Carol of the Bells... with a twist.

Iris

I heard this song for the first time today, and I am nowhere near dissapointed. I was hooked was soon as I heard the lyrics and i don't want the world to see me / 'cause i don't think that they'd understand, and as I listened further, I was drawn in by the singer's amazing, passionate voice and the melodies, which were executed beautifully. At that point, I got to thinking "...who is this amazing band?! Why havn't I heard of them before?!" Then I looked up those lyrics, discovered the song... and laughed out loud.
The Goo Goo Dolls? Are you kidding me? I had heard of them before, but never even given them a chance; who could take a group with a name like that seriously? But let me tell you, I've been thoroughly humbled; a true "don't-judge-a-book-by-its-cover" moment. Never again will I underestimate a band because of their name.
So, do yourself a favor; take a moment to hear Iris; even if the group's name makes you laugh. The music video is simply spectacular.

The Goo Goo Dolls - Iris Music Video

Iris
The Goo Goo Dolls

And I'd give up forever to touch you
'Cause I know that you feel me somehow
You're the closest to heaven that I'll ever be
And I don't want to go home right now

And all I can taste is this moment
And all I can breathe is your life
'Cause sooner or later it's over
I just don't want to miss you tonight

And I don't want the world to see me
'Cause I don't think that they'd understand
When everything's made to be broken
I just want you to know who I am

And you can't fight the tears that ain't coming
Or the moment of truth in your lies
When everything feels like the movies
Yeah you bleed just to know you're alive

And I don't want the world to see me
'Cause I don't think that they'd understand
When everything's made to be broken
I just want you to know who I am

...

And I don't want the world to see me
'Cause I don't think that they'd understand
When everything's made to be broken
I just want you to know who I am

I just want you to know who I am
I just want you to know who I am
I just want you to know who I am

I Don't Wanna Be In Love (Dance Floor Anthem)

I wouldn't exactly call myself a Good Charlotte "fan", considering I've only ever heard a handful of their songs, but the songs I have heard have caught my attention; one being their "dance floor anthem". The lyrics to this song may hit home for some people, but I believe what makes this song so great is its addicting beat; it really is a song for the dance floor. And I absolutelly love the very beginning; the opening is a little more rock than the rest of the song, and I like it.
Here's Good Charlotte's I Don't Wanna Be In Love (Dance Floor Anthem).

Good Charlotte - I Don't Wanna Be In Love (Dance Floor Anthem) Music Video

I Don't Wanna Be In Love (Dance Floor Anthem)
Good Charlotte

She’s going out to forget they were together
All that time he was taking her for granted
She wants to see if there’s more
than he gave she’s looking for

He calls her up
He’s trippin' on the phone now
He doesn’t want her out there
And alone now
He knows she’s movin' it
Knows she’s using it
Now he’s losing it
She don’t care

Everybody put up your hands
Say I don’t wanna be in love
I don’t wanna be in love
to the beat now
If you’ve got nothing left
Say I don’t wanna be in love
I don’t wanna be in love
Back it up now
You’ve got a reason to live
Say I don’t wanna be in love
I don’t wanna be in love
Feelin' good now
Don’t be afraid to get down
Say I don’t wanna be in love
I don’t wanna be in love

He was always giving her attention
looking hard to find the things she mentioned
He was dedicated
By most suckers hated
That girl was fine
But she didn’t appreciate him

She calls him up
She’s tripping on the phone now
He had to get up
And he ain’t comin' home now
He’s tryin' to forget her
That’s how we come with him
When he first met her
When they first got together

Everybody put up your hands
Say I don’t wanna be in love
I don’t wanna be in love
feel the beat now
If you got nothing left
Say I don’t wanna be in love
I don’t wanna be in love
Back it up now
You got a reason to live
Say I don’t wanna be in love
I don’t wanna be in love
Feelin' good now
Don’t be afraid to get down
Say I don’t wanna be in love
I don’t wanna be in love

To the beat (x3)
You got nothing to lose
Don’t be afraid to get down

We break up
It’s something that we do now
Everyone has got to do it sometime
It’s okay, let it go
Get out there and find someone

It’s too late to be trippin' on the phone here
Get off the wire
You know everything is good here
Stop what you’re doin'
You don’t wanna ruin
The chance that you got to
find a new one

Everybody put up your hands
Say I don’t wanna be in love
I don’t wanna be in love
feel the beat now
If you got nothing left
Say I don’t wanna be in love
I don’t wanna be in love
Back it up now
You got a reason to live
Say I don’t wanna be in love
I don’t wanna be in love
Feelin' good now
Don’t be afraid to get down
Say I don’t wanna be in love
I don’t wanna be in love

It's My Life

...what can I say? I just really love this song. It's hard core in classic Bon Jovi fashion, and I really enjoy the music video as well. The lyrics are powerful and speak a good message of not being afraid to live life your own way. My favorite part of this song, other than the lyrics, may be the keyboard part... wow!
So, here it is; It's My Life, by Bon Jovi.

Bon Jovi - It's My Life Music Video

It's My Life
Bon Jovi

This ain't a song for the broken-hearted
No silent prayer for the faith-departed
I ain't gonna be just a face in the crowd
You're gonna hear my voice
When I shout it out loud

It's my life
It's now or never
I ain't gonna live forever
I just want to live while I'm alive
(It's my life)
My heart is like an open highway
Like Frankie said
I did it my way
I just wanna live while I'm alive
It's my life

This is for the ones who stood their ground
For Tommy and Gina who never backed down
Tomorrow's getting harder make no mistake
Luck ain't even lucky
Got to make your own breaks

It's my life
And it's now or never
I ain't gonna live forever
I just want to live while I'm alive
(It's my life)
My heart is like an open highway
Like Frankie said
I did it my way
I just want to live while I'm alive
'Cause it's my life

Better stand tall when they're calling you out
Don't bend, don't break, baby, don't back down

It's my life
And it's now or never
'Cause I ain't gonna live forever
I just want to live while I'm alive
(It's my life)
My heart is like an open highway
Like Frankie said
I did it my way
I just want to live while I'm alive

It's my life
And it's now or never
'Cause I ain't gonna live forever
I just want to live while I'm alive
(It's my life)
My heart is like an open highway
Like Frankie said
I did it my way
I just want to live while I'm alive
'Cause it's my life!

What Hurts The Most

I know there has already been a post made on music.is.life about this song (Rascal Flatts' version has been featured on this site), but yet another version of this song has been recorded; this time, by dance diva CASCADA.
A lot of people may not enjoy this version of What Hurts The Most, which has been sung a thousand times over by various artists in a wide range of genres. Some people may argue that CASCADA's trademark dance club style, was not true to the powerful and moving lyrics of this song. I thought I would be one of those people. Surprisingly, I actually enjoyed CASCADA's version of this song almost more than Rascal Flatts', although I must admit the country stars' video blows CASCADA's out of the water.
I've already fallen in love with this song, as much of the music world has. Now, let's fall in love all over again with a quick listen to CASCADA's powerful remix.

CASCADA - What Hurts The Most Music Video

What Hurts The Most
CASCADA

I can take the rain on the roof of this empty house
That don't bother me
I can take a few tears now and then and just let them out
I'm not afraid to cry every once in a while
Even though goin' on with you gone
Still upsets me
There are days every now and again I pretend
I'm okay
But that's not what gets me

What hurts the most
Was being so close
And having so much to say
And watchin' you walk away
Never knowing
What could have been
And not seein that lovin' you
Is what I was tryin to do

It's hard to deal with the pain of losing you everywhere I go
But I'm doin' it
It's hard to force that smile when I see our old friends and I'm alone
Still harder
Getting up, getting dressed, living with, this regret, but I know
If I could do it over
I would trade, give away, all the words, that I saved, in my heart
That I left unspoken

What hurts the most
Was being so close
And having so much to say
And watchin' you walk away
Never knowing
What could have been
And not seein that lovin' you
Is what I was tryin to do

I'm not afraid to cry every once in a while
Even though going on with you gone
Still upsets me
There are days every now and again I pretend
I'm okay
But that's not what gets me

What hurts the most
Was being so close
And having so much to say
And watching you walk away
Never knowing
What could have been
And not seein that lovin' you
Is what I was tryin to do

What hurts the most
Was being so close
And having so much to say
And watchin' you walk away
Never knowing
What could have been
And not seein that lovin' you
Is what I was tryin to do

My favorite part of this video? When CASCADA is getting her tattoo (the classic heart with a banner reading Unbreakable) and when the wall is seperating her and the guy who broke her heart.
If you arn't fond of this dance club style of this song (and I have a feeling many people won't be), there's an alternative; CASCADA sung a "candlelight remix" of What Hurts The Most, similar to what she did for her song Every Time We Touch. To hear the CASCADA's What Hurts The Most: Yanou's Candlelight Mix, watch this video. This is not the music video for the remix, but gives you a chance to hear the song.

Leave a comment and let us know what you think of this new version of a very popular song!

Face Down

...I love this song.
That's all there is to it. It's just a fantastic song... the lyrics are so powerful and speak of strength and courage in the most unbearable of situations.
I personally like a certain version of this song better... the version with the screaming. I like the screaming... if the vocalist is screaming and pulling it off well, he's obviously got a lot of passion behind what he's saying, and I like that. It really brings a song together and works beautifully with this song. I was dissapointed that the screamo version is so much shorter (2:50 compared to the radio edit which passes the three minute mark), which forced me to sacrifice quality for quanity; better version vs. longer version.
No matter which version you chose, this really is just an amazing song. So, as always, I'll post the music video and lyrics. The video I found on YouTube is yet another version of this song... I think this may be the original, actually. This version includes a screamo bridge, but lacks the screaming at the end of each chorus, like my version has. Still an awesome song and a great video.
Here it is; Face Down by The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus.

The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus - Face Down Music Video

Face Down
The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus

Hey girl you know you drive me crazy
One walk puts the rhythm in my head
Still I'll never understand why you hang around
I see what's going down

Cover up with make up in the mirror
Tell yourself it's never gonna happen again
You cry alone and then he swears he loves you

Do you feel like a man
When you push her around?
Do you feel better now
As she falls to the ground?
Well I'll tell you my friend
One day this world's going to end
As your lies crumble down
A new life she has found

A pebble in the water makes a ripple effect
Every action in this world will bear a consequence
If you wait around forever you will surely drown
I see what's going down

I see the way you go and say you're right again,
Say you're right again,
Heed my lecture

Do you feel like a man
When you push her around?
Do you feel better now
As she falls to the ground?
Well I'll tell you my friend
One day this world's going to end
As your lies crumble down
A new life she has found

Face down in the dirt, she said
This doesn't hurt, she said
I finally had enough

(Screaming)
One day
She will
Tell you
That she
Had enough
It's coming round again

Do you feel like a man
When you push her around?
Do you feel better now
As she falls to the ground?
Well I'll tell you my friend
One day this world's going to end
As your lies crumble down
A new life she has found

Do you feel like a man
When you push her around?
Do you feel better now
As she falls to the ground?
Well I'll tell you my friend
One day this world's going to end
As your lies crumble down
A new life she has found

Face down in the dirt, she said
This doesn't hurt, she said
I finally had enough

Welcome To The Black Parade

I am completelly in love with the song Welcome To The Black Parade by My Chemical Romance. I think it's just such a powerful song; as the lyrics describe, this song really is an anthem. Reno let me hear the original version of this song rather than the radio edit, and although some people don't like the screaming, I enjoy it; not just in this song, but others too (such as Face Down by The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus; a post on that song to come!). I think the screaming just adds a sense of passion to the song, and it especially fits Welcome To The Black Parade.
So, here is the music video (for the original version, not the radio edit) and lyrics to this fantastic song. At first I didn't think I was going to like the music video, but in the end I really enjoyed it. Anyway, here it is, curtosy of MCR.

My Chemical Romance - Welcome To The Black Parade Music Video

Welcome To The Black Parade
My Chemical Romance

When I was
A young boy
My father
Took me into the city
To see a marching band
He said, "Son when
You grow up
Will you be
The saviour of the broken,
The beaten and the damned?"

He said, "Will you
Defeat them
Your demons
And all the non-believers
The plans that they have made?
Because one day
I'll leave you
A phantom
To lead you in the summer
To join the black parade."

When I was
A young boy
My father
Took me into the city
To see a marching band
He said, "Son when
You grow up
Will you be
The saviour of the broken
The beaten and the damned?"

Sometimes I get the feeling
She's watching over me
And other times I feel like I should go
And through it all, the rise and fall
The bodies in the street
And when you're gone we want you all to know

We'll carry on, We'll carry on
And though you're dead and gone, believe me
Your memory will carry on
We'll carry on
Until my heart I can't contain it
The anthem won't explain it

A world that sends you reeling
From decimated dreams
Your misery and hate will kill us all
So paint it black and take it back
Let's shout it loud and clear
Defiant to the end we hear the call

To carry on
We'll carry on,
And though your dead and gone, believe me
Your memory will carry on
We'll carry on
And though you're broken and defeated
Your weary widow marches on

And on we carry through the fears
The disappointed faces of your peers
Take a look at me
'Cause I could not care at all

Do or die
You’ll never make me
Because the world
Will never take my heart
Go and try
You’ll never break me
We want it all
We want to play this part

I won’t explain
Or say I’m sorry
I’m unashamed
I’m gonna show my scar
Give a cheer
For all the broken
Listen here
Because it’s who we are

I'm just a man
I'm not a hero
Just a boy
Whose meant to sing this song
I'm just a man
I'm not a hero

I
Don't
Care

We'll carry on
We'll carry on
And though you're dead and gone, believe me
Your memory will carry on
We'll carry on
And though you're broken and defeated
Your weary widow marches on

Do or die
You’ll never make me
Because the world
Will never take my heart
Go and try
You’ll never break me
We want it all
We want to play this part

I won’t explain
Or say I’m sorry
I’m unashamed
I’m gonna show my scar
Give a cheer
For all the broken
Listen here
Because it’s who we are

I'm just a man
I'm not a hero
Just a boy
Who had to sing this song
I'm just a man
I'm not a hero

We'll carry on

Cauterize - One Of My Favorites, Broken Up

I have to say that Cauterize is one of my favorite rock bands. Their songs are always fantastic, and their lyrics are so powerful - a huge plus for me. Personally, a song can have the most amazing melody, but if the lyrics suck... I just won't like the song. Cauterize always has strong lyrics, and when paired with their amazing talents with instruments and vocals, it just gives you an all-around great group to listen to.
This may be old news by now, but I only recently learned the Cauterize had broken up as a band. This was extremelly upsetting news for me, as I enjoy their music so much. After hearing this, I decided to make an almost commemorative post on music.is.life for this group.

Most of my favorite Cauterize songs are from their first album, So Far From Real (cover art above left), but some tracks from their newer albums have caught my attention too. My current favorite Cauterize songs include...

From So Far From Real (2003); Choke, Killing Me, I'll Cry Tomorrow, Taste Of Tears
From Paper Wings (2005): Closer, Paper Wings, Porcelain

A lot of Cauterize's other songs are amazing too, along with all of their lyrics... but for time's sake I will not list them all!
I encourage you to check out this band if you like a good rock sound paired with beautiful lyrics. To give you a taste, I'll post the music video for Choke, which is probably my favorite Cauterize song of them all.

Cauterize - Choke Music Video

Choke
Cauterize

There's nothing that I can say
To make you want to stay here with me forever
There's nothing that I can do
To make you want me like I need you to
I need you to

Just give me one last chance to say this
Just give me one last chance to say what's on my mind
And I will get it right

If I could only get my head above the water for a moment (a moment of your time)
But you seem so strong and I can't hold my breath for long
Have you ever tried to scream under water?
You'll choke

You said I always sang too loud
To sing you a love song
Well I save my soft voice for the things I really mean
You always said I had a hard time
Saying what's on my mind
Well, here it goes, I hate you
For what you've done to me

Just give me one last chance to say this
Just give me one last chance to say what's on my mind
And I will get it right

If I could only get my head above the water for a moment (a moment of your time)
But you seem so strong and I can't hold my breath for long
Have you ever tried to scream under water?
You'll choke

When the last word's been said
And the last tear's been shed
I will miss you, miss you, my friend
And I can't tell you lies
Even after all these years
I still cry

If you liked that, I encourage you to check out more Cauterize lyrics and to do your own listening to music by this awesome group. Cauterize fans new and old can appreciate the music they did put out before the end of their relatively short-lived career.
Goodbye, boys - new Cauterize music will be dearly missed.