Desolation Row

I cannot say enough good things about this cover.

Anyone who follows this blog is probably well aware that my favorite band is My Chemical Romance. While this band may currently be on break and not recording any new material yet, you can imagine my excitement when I heard that My Chemical Romance was selected to record a cover for an upcoming film.
And not just any film; My Chemical Romance has recorded a cover of Bob Dylan's Desolation Row for the Watchmen movie, scheduled to hit theatres Friday, March 6th.

While My Chemical Romance's version of Desolation Row is clocking in at nearly a quarter the length of the original track (Bob Dylan's recording having been around eleven minutes long, compared to the three minute length of the cover), I was extremely pleased by the way My Chemical Romance presented this song. Vocalist Gerard Way chose between the multiple verses of the original track and picked which he felt best represented the movie - a process he said was extremely difficult. However, in the end, the verses the band ended up incorporating into their cover exemplify not only the graphic-novel-gone-film, but the essence of Bob Dylan's original song almost, too perfectly.
There is plenty to appreciate beyond the lyrics, too. My Chemical Romance took an entirely different approach to this cover - it sounds nothing like the original, and yet, the hardcore punk styling of the track not only showcase the novel and, eventually, the movie, but also a new phase in the life of this band. My Chemical Romance are considering moving away from the theatric, rock-opera style which was apparent on their album The Black Parade (2006) and fall back on the punk rock foundations which supported their first two albums (I Brought You My Bullets, You Brought Me Your Love; 2002; and Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge, 2004).
Everything about this cover screams punk-rock, from the raw, unpolished vocals to the rough, dirty guitars and crashing symbols of the drum set. The entire essence of the track is just teeming with pent-up emotion, and the whole thing is hard and heavy enough that, at the end of three minutes, you can't help but keep asking for more. The combination of Bob Dylan's outstanding lyrics and My Chemical Romance's talents in musicianship and presentation is truly a winning mix.

All in all, this cover serves not only to represent Watchmen in the most brilliant of ways, but also My Chemical Romance, and the new direction the band plans to take with their careers.
The video is one hundred percent hardcore and a great watch for anyone - however, it's an especially good treat for those My Chem fans eagerly awaiting the band's return from their break (: And anyone who's actually read Watchmen , as I have, will appreciate every reference made in the video - from the Rorschach banner behind the drum set, to the Pale Horse flyers, to the graffiti on bassist Mikey Way's guitar ("Who Watches The Watchmen") ... it's all there.

Make sure to head out and see Watchmen when it hits theatres this Friday!
Until then, keep on rockin' to My Chemical Romance's cover of Desolation Row!

My Chemical Romance - Desolation Row [Bob Dylan Cover] Official Music Video

Desolation Row
Originally Recorded by Bob Dylan
Covered by My Chemical Romance

They're selling postcards of the hanging, they're painting the passports brown.
The beauty parlor is filled with sailors; the circus is in town.
Here comes the blind commissioner, they've got him in a trance.
One hand is tied to the tight-rope walker, the other's in his pants.
And the riot squad, they're restless; they need somewhere to go
As Lady and I look out tonight from Desolation Row.

Cinderella, she seems so easy; "It takes one to know one," she smiles.
And puts her hands in her back pockets, Bette Davis style.
And in comes Romeo, he's moaning, "You belong to me, I believe."
And someone says," You're in the wrong place, my friend; you better leave."
And the only sound that's left after the ambulances go
Is Cinderella sweeping up on Desolation Row.

...
At midnight all the agents and the superhuman crew
Go out and round up everyone that knows more than they do.
They bring them to the factory, where the heart-attack machine
Is strapped across their shoulders, and then the kerosene
Is brought down from the castles by insurance men who go
Check to see that no one is escaping to Desolation Row.

...
Right now I can't read too good
Don't send me no letters, no.
Not unless you mail them from Desolation Row.

Then & Now - My Chemical Romance

... a qucik introduction about this new "series" of mine ...

So. I know you've all been sitting at the edge of your seats for months now, checking this blog daily - if not twice daily - eagerly awaiting the moment when you'd see on this site my infamous "Then & Now" post.
... okay. maybe not. Some of you are probably wondering ... "What is she talking about? ...what is it I'm about to read, exactly?"

This post is going to be a little unorthodox, compared to most. For one ... it's not going to be one post. This post you're reading now will mark a series of "Then & Now" posts I will write over the course of the following week or so. In these posts, I'm going to shuffle back through the archives, reminiscing on the posts I've made since the beginning of this blog's existence.
... but that's not all.
Along the way, I'll think about my opinions on these bands now. You have probably often seen my type at the bottom of a post, "I'll definitely be looking more into this band"; or, "I can't wait to listen to this band's latest album" ... or something to that effect. The thing is, many of the songs I've posted about on this site have been from bands I didn't know very well at the time ... and, more often than not, I've been surprised by what I've discovered about these bands when I delved deeper into their discographies.
Interesting? I think so. So let's take a look at my favorite bands, then ... and now. We'll start with posts from the very beginning ... and work our way up to the present. Look out for more "Then & Now" posts in the days to come, and for now, enjoy Part 1 of this little mini-series.

And it'd only be appropriate that I start out with ...

My Chemical Romance
You all should have guessed these guys would be in here :3

Then ...

The first post I made on this blog about My Chemical Romance was a review for their ever-popular single, Welcome to the Black Parade. This post ... basically marks my introduction into this band. At the time, this was the only song of theirs I knew; I had just started doing my research on the band. Little did I know ...

...& Now.

... that My Chemical Romance would go on to become the first band I ever called my "favorite". Anyone who's followed this blog since making my post on Welcome to the Black Parade has, in essence, watched me fall in love with this band as a whole. You've been there with me as I discovered everything I love about this band ... and have stuck with me as I shared with you every detail (yes, every one!) In hindsight, I don't think my album review for their 2006 effort, The Black Parade, came anywhere close to doing the album justice ... but it wasn't prejudice, either, which is probably more than I could say if I re-wrote the review now ;) All in all, since first watching the video for Welcome to the Black Parade - a video I "didn't think I was going to like at first" - I have grown to appreciate every effort My Chemical Romance has done. This is the band which really shaped my taste in music, and I love them for it.

Currently, My Chemical Romance is is the studio, working on the follow up to 2006's The Black Parade. The band's website offers frequent updates on the tracking process; band members have said that they're "reaching for the stars with each track", and that the new album will no doubt "wreck people's faces". Well, looks like they have high standards to meet! And you better believe I'll be here, letting you guys all know whether or not they live up to their big talk. ...I have a feeling they will.

A taste of what's to come ...

This performance (live from Hoboken, New Jersey) was featured on My Chemical Romance's second CD/DVD release, The Black Parade Is Dead! (2008). The song they perform in the video below is, as of now, an untitled track which will, more likely than not, be featured as a studio recording on My Chemical Romance's upcoming album.
This song is lovely, and gives me an idea of what the band may be working towards as far as sound for the new album. I've been enjoying this song for the past year, and will continue to do so. I can't wait to hear how it sounds, finalized, on the new album.
I hope you guys enjoy this song as much as I do.

My Chemical Romance - (Untitled) [Live in Hoboken, NJ]

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 :)

Vitamin String Quartet - A New Spin On Old Favorites

What do AC/DC, Death Cab For Cutie, and Linkin Park all have in common? The Vitamin String Quartet has covered all of their songs - using the violin, viola, and cello!
From the very first time I heard the Vitamin String Quartet cover of My Chemical Romance's Helena, I was hooked. I was instantly drawn in by the talent the Quartet had to not only play the song, but perform it, with just the right amount of emotion to tell the story of the song, without any lyrics to back it up. After hearing the Quartet's My Chemical Romance covers I went on to look up some of their other work, and was surprised and delighted by the sheer volume in which they had recorded. They had covered songs from an unmeasurable amount of artists in seemingly every genre.
But not only had they recorded tributes to individual artists, the Quartet had also recorded themed albums; there was the "Rock N' Roll Wedding Collection", the "String Quartet Baby Shower Collection" ... There were tributes dedicated to specific genres, or the biggest hits of a particular year. And not only were there string covers, but piano covers as well ... I was slightly overwhelmed by the mass amount of recordings, but loved every minute of discovering the Quartet's work. Every once in a while, they'd branch out past the strings or keys and incorporate a different instrument when it would add just the right touch; the Vitamin String Quartet's cover of Guns N' Roses' Don't Cry includes a snare drum roll, and at the end of the cover of My Chemical Romance's Teenagers, an electric violin joins the group, imitating the punk-rock sound of an electric guitar.
All in all, I am blown away by the talent of this Quartet, and have loved listening to their covers of so many amazing songs. I encourage you to check out the Quartet for yourself, because what I post on this blog could never do the group justice. Please, do yourself a favor; go to vitaminrecords.com and see all of the amazing recordings this group has done. You won't be disappointed.
But, for now, check out a few of my favorite Vitamin String Quartet covers in the videos below.
Enjoy!

Vitamin String Quartet - String Tribute to Helena by My Chemical Romance



Vitamin String Quartet - String Tribute to Broken by Seether feat. Amy Lee



Vitamin String Quartet - String Tribute to I Write Sins Not Tragedies by Panic! At The Disco

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

Under Pressure

I am so not an eighties music fan. I hear an eighties song, and I do my best to leave the room. I don't know what it is about that musical era, but the eighties and I are not good friends as far as music goes.
But, leave it to me to fall in love with an eighties song as soon as My Chemical Romance & The Used collaborate on its remix. In all honesty, I would have never given this song a chance if my favorite band and their close friends, respectively, hadn't redone it. Sorry, I'm terribly prejudice against eighties music, I know. But I listed to this remix of Under Pressure, and turns out I like the lyrics a lot, and the beat is super catchy, too.
Congrats to MCR and The Used, for recording an awesome cover to what was probably an awesome song to begin with. But I'll let some Queen or David Bowie fans tell you how great the original track was. Me? I'm a little biased.
So, here are the lyrics to Under Pressure, and a video of the bands performing the song together. Usually I don't like posting videos of live performances because, let's face it, no band or artist is as great live as they are in a recording studio, and most of the videos of live performances on YouTube have awful picture or audio quality, or both. But I found this video and it was great quality, and fun to watch to boot. So, I'm making an exception and posting this video of a live performance instead of a video where you sit and stare at a band logo for three and a half minutes. You're welcome.
Enjoy the song!

My Chemical Romance & The Used - Under Pressure (Live)

Under Pressure
My Chemical Romance & The Used (Originally by David Bowie & Queen)

Pressure!

Pushing down on me
Pressing down on you no man ask for
Under pressure
That burns a building down
Splits a family in two
Puts people on streets

Bah bah dah bah bah dah
(Yeah) (Yeah)

That's okay!
It's the terror of knowing
What this world is about
Watching some good friends
Scream "Let me out!"
Pray tomorrow takes me higher
Pressure on people
People on streets

Bah bah dah bah bah dah
Okay!

Chippin' around
Kick my brains round the floor
These are the days
It never rains but it pours
Bah bah dah bah bah dah

People on streets
bah dah dee da day
People on streets
bah dah dee dah dee dah dee dah dee dah

It's the terror of knowing
What this world is about
Watching some good friends
Scream "Let me out!"
Pray tomorrow takes me higher (higher)

Yeah!

Turned away from it all
Like a blind man
Sat on a fence but it don't work
Keep coming up with love
But it's so slashed and torn

Why? Why? Why?
Love (love)! Love (love)! Love (love)!

Insanity laughs under pressure we're cracking
Can't we give ourselves one more chance?
Why can't we give love that one more chance?
Why can't we give love give love give love?
Give love give love give love give love give love?

Cause love's such an old fashioned word
And love dares you to care
For the people on the edge of the night
And love dares you to change our ways
Of caring about ourselves

This is our last dance
This is our last dance
This is ourselves under pressure

Under pressure
Under pressure

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

The Used - 'Thriving On Friction'

Until recently, I'd heard of The Used, and listened to a few of their songs here and there ... but I'd never gone out of my way to look into them as a band, to really discover the depths of their music. Now that I have, I'm sure glad I did, and I'm excited to share what I've discovered with the readers of this blog.
From the few songs I'd heard by The Used, I was instantly impressed with the unique sound of Bert McCracken's voice; he could sing a song clear and precise, or he could put an edgy spin on the vocals, giving the track an entirely different feel. Either way, the proper effect was acheived. Plenty of screaming is included to add even more to the songs.
The instrumentals are also noteable. Crashing symbols are present in a lot of The Used songs. Jeph Howard delivers a strong, supportive bass line and Quinn Allman supplies plenty of catchy guitar riffs and solos. Finally, the lyrics, often metaphorical and always a little out-there, deliver the message or story in the song flawlessly.
When all the pieces come together, The Used gives you songs you can't help but enjoy.


So far, my collection of The Used songs consists of the following tracks;

The Used (2002)

- The Taste Of Ink
- Blue And Yellow

In Love And Death (2004)

- Take It Away
- I Caught Fire
- All That I've Got

Lies For The Liars (2007)

-The Bird And The Worm

Collaborations:
- The Used & My Chemical Romance:

- Under Pressure (2005)

Throughout the course of their career, The Used has presented fans with catchy and original tracks time and time again. I look forward to discovering even more songs by this talented group, and I encourage you to learn more about The Used as well.

The Used's website offers plenty of information on the band.

If you're interested in looking up lyrics, this website has the lyrics to all the songs on all three of the band's studio released albums, as well as bonus tracks and other songs by The Used.

You can also check out the posts I've made previously on music.is.life featuring The Used's song The Bird And The Worm and their collaboration with My Chemical Romance in recording Under Pressure.

To get you started, here's the lyrics and music video for what is probably my favorite The Used song to date; The Taste Of Ink. The lyrics speak such a strong message about making the most of your life, no matter what.
Enjoy!

The Used - The Taste Of Ink Official Music Video

The Taste Of Ink
The Used

Is it worth the can you even hear me
Standing with your spotlight on me
Not enough to feed the hungry
I'm tired and I felt it for awhile now
In this sea of lonely
The taste of ink is getting old
It's four o' clock in the f***ing morning
Each day gets more and more like the last day
Still I can see it coming
While I'm standing in the river drowning
This could be my chance to break out
This could be my chance to say goodbye
At last it's finally over
Couldn't take this town much longer
Being half dead wasn't what I planned to be
Now I'm ready to be free

So here I am, it's in my hands
And I'll savor every moment of this
So here I am, alive at last
And I'll savor every moment of this

Won't you think I'm pretty
When I'm standing 'top the bright-lit city
And I'll take your hand and pick you up
And keep you there so you can see it
As long as you're alive and care
I promise I will take you there
We'll drink and dance the night away
We'll drink and dance the night away

So here I am, it's in my hands
And I'll savor every moment of this
So here I am, alive at last
And I'll savor every moment of this
Savor every moment of this

(As long as you're alive, here I am...)

As long as you're alive
Here I am
I promise I will take you there

As long as you're alive
Here I am
I promise I will take you there

Won't you think I'm pretty
When I'm standing 'top the bright-lit city
And I'll take your hand and pick you up
And keep you there so you can see it
So long as you're alive and care
I promise I will take you there
So long as you're alive and care
I promise I will take you there

So here I am, it's in my hands
And I'll savor every moment of this
So here I am, alive at last
And I'll savor every moment of this
Savor every moment of this
Savor every moment of this

Thursday - A New Favorite

The other day, I decided to take a listen to some music by Thursday after noticing that my favorite band, My Chemical Romance, had been compared to Thursday several times at the beginning of their career. When I started reading Thursday's lyrics and listening to their songs, it was easy to see how the two could be compared. But, it was also apparent that I had found a new favorite group.
Thursday really is quite good. Their instrumentals are close to being a rock sound, but their lyrics and style are just "out there" enough to fall into the Alternative genre. Speaking of which, Thursday's lyrics, for the most part, are phenomenal, and that's a huge selling point for me. Also a selling point is passion, and Thursday has plenty of that; they pack plenty of emotion into each and every track.
So I recently bought several Thursday tracks off of iTunes. Here's my current Thursday collection ...

Full Collapse (2001)

- Understanding In A Car Crash
- Cross Out The Eyes
- How Long Is The Night?

War All The Time (2003)

- For The Workforce, Drowning

A City By the Light Divided (2007)

- Counting 5-4-3-2-1
- Telegraph Avenue Kiss
- The Lovesong Writer
- Autumn Leaves Revisited

I wish I had more money on my iTunes gift card, because there were several other Thursday tracks I wanted to purchase as well. However, this is all I could buy. I must say, though, I am not disappointed with any of the songs I bought. It may just be impossible for me to chose a favorite out of my collection!
Thursday has a wide range of musical styling, leaving you with a song to suit any mood. While songs like For The Workforce, Drowning and Counting 5-4-3-2-1 set a frantic pace, they can slow it down with songs like Telegraph Avenue Kiss without sacrificing quality. While reading the lyrics to songs like How Long Is The Night? and The Lovesong Writer, you forget they are lyrics and instead interpret them as pure poetry. Thursday can play a song like Autumn Leaves Revisited and nearly move you to tears ... then switch it around with Cross Out The Eyes and make you just want to scream along.

All in all, I don't believe I could chose a favorite Thursday song out of those I've mentioned. But, I will chose to post the music video and lyrics for Cross Out The Eyes, because I love the song and Thursday filmed an extremely interesting concept video for it. My favorite part of the song is the end, when it fades out to just the screaming ... maybe you're not into the whole screamo thing, but I am. I think it takes an extremely talented and dedicated vocalist to pull off the screaming, and Thursday is one of those groups who definitely wears it well.
So, please sit back and enjoy Cross Out The Eyes by Thursday.

Thursday - Cross Out The Eyes Music Video

Cross Out The Eyes
Thursday

Let's call this the quiet city
Where screams are felt as a wave of stoplights
Drive through the streets as gunshots punctuate the night
The sides we take divide us from our faith
And the morning dove gets caught in the telephone wire

Asleep you set the fire in your own house
And the night was a knife that cut
And I'm paralyzed

Cross out the eyes
Blur all the lines
Tearing this canvas from the wall
We crossed out the eyes
Put lines through these cries
We pulled all the leaves from the trees that fall

A silent dance that we did into this hospital bed
Hear voices from another room;
"It happens all the time."
But July in the sand
The leaves falling
And counting down our days to live
Drain the blood from this valentine

"We can rise on the wings of the dove
See blue skies getting caught in the trail of all this smoke
We can rise like candles in the dark - Yours, Always."
And an envelope marked with your new address

Asleep you set the fire in your own house
And the night was a knife that cut
And I'm paralyzed

Cross out the eyes
Blur all the lines
Tearing this canvas from the wall
We crossed out the eyes
Put lines through these cries
We pulled all the leaves from the trees that fall

It was the first time face to face
I'm crossing the line
Talking to the other side of death
Hearing the words that choke memories into flatlines
I'm calling your name hoping for something to wash these dreams of you away
(Can't we die!)

(Memories in flatlines!)

Cross out the eyes with a set of these lines
Cross out the eyes with a set of these lines!

(Cross out the eyes!)
Our fence was blown down in a winter storm and this field
(Cross out the eyes!)
Stretches out of this world into the sound
(A trace of)
What can we do to put a stop to these coming white days
(A love song)
I'm hoping the snow will wash these dreams of you away

(Stretches out of this world,
Let's drive back the dead.
Stretches out of this world.
Stretches out of this world.)

Sing For Absolution

I love Muse. That without a doubt is very true. They are coming closer and closer to becoming my favorite band...music wise of course (My Chemical Romance and Blue October will always hold incredibly special places in my heart).

So, I was interested in finding some Muse tracks that I hadn't heard, and a few days ago I went on a Muse spree on youtube.
In the process I found one of the most amazing songs I've ever heard. "Sing For Absolution"

I don't know exactly how to describe this song, or how much I love it, and how much it touches me...or even why. There's something hauntingly beautiful about it, about the lyrics and the tune. Matt's voice is amazing. He's got one of those voices that just captivates, that ensnares, and empowers...I get shivers and just an overall "wow" feeling whenever I hear him sing. I totally understand how Stephanie Meyer found this band such an inspiration when writing the Twilight saga, you can't help but think of true love, and loss, fear, and longing when listening to this band. Sing For Absolution completely embodies all of that.

The music video is also something to behold. It's a very sci-fi setting. With great computer animation graphics...kinda remind me of the more epic scenes from the movie Titan A.E.

Anyway, I've found this song just brilliant. Of course...you have to form your own opinion.

Enjoy!

Sing For Absolution-Muse


-Lyrics-

lips are turning blue
a kiss that can't renew
I only dream of you
my beautiful

tiptoe to your room
a starlight in the gloom
I only dream of you
and you never knew

sing for absolution
I will be singing
falling from your grace

there's nowhere left to hide
in no one to confide
the truth runs deep inside
and will never die

lips are turning blue
a kiss that can't renew
I only dream of you
my beautiful

sing for absolution
I will be singing
falling from your grace

sing for absolution
I will be singing
falling from your grace

our wrongs remain unrectified
and our souls won't be exhumed

The Bird And The Worm

... wow. This song is awesome.
I admit; the first time I had ever listened to The Used was when they collaborated with My Chemical Romance to do a cover of the older hit, Under Presure. While my first impression of them wasn't an example of their own work, I was instantly impressed by the vocal talents of Bert McCracken; his voice had such a unique, edgy sound to it, and I loved it right away. So, I was excited when I got the chance to listen to this single off of The Used's latest album release, Lies for the Liars (2007). And let me tell you; I was blown away. My first taste of The Used's music was not a dissapointment.
The Bird And The Worm is simply an amazing song. The vocals, I am happy to report, remain edgy in what may be Bert's typical style. The instrumentation and backing vocals are outstanding as well, and the lyrics; wow! Don't even get me started. As a whole, this track had me speechless. One of those where I just had to sit and take it all in for a minute. Then I watched the music video, and I was sold. The video is completelly psychotic; somebody put so much effort into making that video just skitzo enough to leave the viewer totally bewildered ... and begging for more.
Experience this one for yourselves, folks. Truly a stellar piece of musical genious.
Here's The Bird And The Worm by The Used.

The Used - The Bird And The Worm Music Video

The Bird And The Worm
The Used

He wears his heart safety pinned to his backpack
His backpack is all that he knows
Shot down by strangers
Whose glances can cripple
The heart and devour the soul

All alone he turns to stone
While holding his breath half to death
Terrified of what's inside
To save his life
He crawls like a worm from a bird
Crawls like a worm from a bird

Out of his mind
The weight pushes him whispering
Must have been out of his mind
Mid-day delusions
Are pushing this out of his head
Maybe out of his mind
Out of his mind

All alone he turns to stone
While holding his breath half to death
Terrified of whats inside
To save his life
He crawls like a worm
Crawls like a worm from a bird
(Crawls like a worm from a bird)
(Crawls like a worm)
(Crawls like a worm from a bird)

All he knows
If he can't relieve it it grows
And so it grows
He crawls like a worm
Crawls like a worm from a bird

Out of his mind
The weight pushes him whispering
Must have been out of his mind

All alone he turns to stone
While holding his breath half to death
Terrified of whats inside
To save his life
He crawls like a worm from a bird

All alone
He's holding his breath half to death
(Holding his breath half to death)
Terrified
To save his life
He crawls like a worm
Crawls like a worm from a bird
Crawls like a worm from a bird
Crawls like a worm from a bird
Crawls like a worm
Crawls like a worm
Crawls like a worm from a bird

Pencey Prep - An Old Band, A New Favorite

I first looked up Pencey Prep after discovering that it was the band Frank Iero was in before moving on to play guitar for My Chemical Romance. I knew Pencey Prep had broken up many years ago, but I still had a desire to look into what few songs they had managed to put out in their five-odd years together.
Pencey Prep's one-and-only studio effort, Heartbreak In Stero, was released in 2002. The album combines hardcore screamo with softer, acoustic styling, all the while maintaining a true punk-rock vibe. The lyrics scream - literally - about the troubles of life and seem especially relate-able for teens; from broken hearts to schoolyard bullies, Pencey Prep's songs go out to kids around the world.
It's a shame this band has broken up; I think with a bit more refinement and a few more years under their belt, Pencey Prep could have been something big. However, I know at least one member of the band has gone on to have a successful career in the music industry - and while their tracks may be limited, Pencey Prep has left behind one very like-able album.
I encourage you to take a listen to all of the tracks on Heartbreak In Stereo. My personal favorites off the album include PS Don't Write, The Secret Goldfish, Trying To Escape The Inevitable, and Lloyd Dobbler.
For now, I leave you with a video for Trying To Escape The Inevitable. I think this song has the most elements and has the most depth out of all my favorites listed above, while giving you a taste of a lot of the different styles Pencey Prep incorporates into the album. I hope you enjoy! =D

Pencey Prep - Trying To Escape The Inevitable Video

Trying To Escape The Inevitable
Pencey Prep

I have this reoccurring dream
You make it hard for me to breathe
I gave you everything I could
I gave up everything I own

And when you smile, it's not for me
You offer little sympathy
You're grasp so far exceeds your reach
I wake up, this is not a dream

I almost can't believe
That you're the same
Person who can
Straight-faced with a smile
Tell me that you love me

(Crawl!)
And I know I should run, I know I should run (But I don't get too far)
And I know I should run, I know I should ...(I know I should run)
And I know I should run (But I just keep running back)
And I know I should run, I know I should ...

I have this reoccurring dream
You admit that you're not happy
I know that you will never leave
You're here just to torment me

And I almost can't believe (And I know I should run, I know I should run)
That you're the same (And I know I should run, I know I should ...)
Person who can (And I know I should run, I know I should run)
Straight-faced with a smile (And I know I should run, I know I should ...)
Tell me that you love me

[Spoken]
I had a new dream and everything was perfect
The sky is pink, yellow, green, blue, and orange
And all the past has been forgotten
(I don't know how you don't choke on every lie you've ever told me!)
And we fell in love, and we fell in love, and we fell in love
And I fell into your trap!

And I know I should run, and I know I should run (You kept me sick!)
And I know I should run, and I know I should ... (You kept me sick!)
And I know I should run, and I know I should run (You took it all!)
And I know I should run, and I know I should...
(Run!) And I know I should run, and I know I should run (Run!)
And I know I should run, run, run!
(Run!) And I know I should run, and I know I should run (Run!)
And I know I should run, run, run!

You kept me sick
You took it all
You kept me complacent
But not for long!

Run!

Bodysnatchers 4 Ever (What's A Pulse Got To Do With It?)

Frank Iero is building up quite the resume.

Coming from humble beginnings in the punk act Pencey Prep and moving into a current and outstanding career in alternative rock band My Chemical Romance, Frank Iero has certainly gotten around in his days as a musician. However, this month marks a milestone for his latest project; the release of LeATHERMOUTH's very first album.

LeATHERMOUTH, another punk act hailing from Jersey and fronted by Iero, has come a long way in a very short amount of time. This is a band which wants to "vent about all the bull***t that I see going on in the world that makes me ill," as Iero put it. He goes on to say; "I try to belabor the topics people want to forget exist. LeATHERMOUTH is where I can vomit out all the aggression that has built up inside."

With their first single off their first album (XO; scheduled release January 27th, 2009), Bodysnatchers 4 Ever does just that. With pure, hardcore adrenaline pumping through the entire song, you can't help but feel any anger or upset inside you fall away while listening. The lyrics - if you can see past the screaming and take them at full value - are powerful, angry; easy to relate to. As a whole, this is music that speaks to people everywhere - of all ages, and of all walks of life. This music brings out in people whatever they're most afraid of, whatever it is they don't want to deal with; LeATHERMOUTH takes that fear and shoves it right in your face. And, after listening, you honestly feel better for it.

Bodysnatchers 4 Ever is a hard-hitting first single from what's sure to be a knockout new band. I encourage you to look up LeATHERMOUTH's other single, Sunsets Are For Muggings, and don't miss your chance to pick up XO on January 27th. I sure know I'll be getting my hands on a copy (:

So, if there's something you've got on your mind, something you need to get off your chest ... prepare for a release.
This is Bodysnatchers 4 Ever, by LeATHERMOUTH.

**EDIT 3.1.09 - LeATHERMOUTH released a music video for this track a while back. I'm sorry I didn't update this post sooner :( However, you can now enjoy the official video for Bodysnatchers 4 Ever. It's pretty much epic. May give certain individuals motion sickness and/or nightmares.
I'm also pleased to report that I purchased XO, and it is simply amazing (: Highly recommended.
After buying the album, I learned that this song actually has a subtitle. This post as been updated accordingly. Sweet deal.

LeATHERMOUTH - Bodysnatchers 4 Ever (What's A Pulse Got To Do With It?) Official Music Video

Bodysnatchers 4 Ever (What's A Pulse Got To Do With It?)
LeATHERMOUTH

a second chance, take a life, another mission.
to steal a kiss from borrowed lips, i taste your prison
it feels like a lifetime, of leaving bodies on the sidelines.

i swear to God, girl, you're never gonna regret this.
close your eyes, this will only take a second.
though these veins are borrowed,
this heart only beats for you.

1,2,3,4!

their shells disposable, oh so expendable.
shut it, shut it, shut it, shut it out
of your pretty mind,
they never cared for you.

here's our shot to insight a revolution.
they don't deserve to live, we are their evolution.
these veins are borrowed, these shells are borrowed.

a new life after death, it's fucking perfect.
don't you fear, they'll never hurt you darling.
these veins are borrowed, these veins are borrowed.

1, 2, 3, 4!

their shells disposable, oh so expendable.
shut it, shut it, shut it, shut it out.
they never cared for you;
how can you shed a tear?

don't worry old girl.
dry the tears from your eyes.
something better is bound to come around sometime ... let's go.

this face means nothing, these hands feel nothing.
these lungs are empty, and these eyes are blind.
this face means nothing, these hands hold nothing.
i'm here, this heart is yours.

our love never dies.