In the eyes of many, My Awesome Compilation will be labeled as 'every other emo band'. Sadly this is the case, more often than not, with MAC's second 'mini-album'. As you listen to the Heart on Sleeve lyrics, soft verses and screaming chorus of many a song you can't help but feel a sense of Deja Vou. There is nothing particularily special about the songs. As a result, 'The View Is Amazing' is a CD you could stick in your CD player, listen to once or twice and soon forget about. However there is something about the album that makes it hard to dislike.
Highlight songs on the record, in my opinion, are 'As Always', the single release of the album, with a chorus with a hook and a great, catchy guitar (Chris Driver) that will stick in your head. 'Our Lives: The Sequel', which is almost an aqquired taste. 'OL:TS' features very good drumming from drummer, Andy Driver, and as "Tomorrow Is Not Just Another Day" is shouted you can just see it being played in a small, cramped gig with kids screaming along to every word. A mention must also go to 'Giving Up' which is a catchy affair of loud guitars and fast drums. The piano on the album definatly adds something to the songs but to be honest there isn't much difference between each song on the album and nothing particularily stands out as special.
The lyrics on the album are your average 'Heart On The Sleeve' type and therefore probably appeal to your average emo fan. The lyrics are very repetative with the lyrics to 'As Always' coming in at an impressive 4 sentences long.
'The View Is Amazing' is nothing special and an average affair. Fall Out Boy fans may enjoy the catchy hooks and emo lyrics of the album but definatly a no-go if you don't like the emo genre. I've gave this album a 3.5 out of 5. Check it out if you like less screamy emo music. You might just like it.
Additional Information
Album notes;
Tracks 1-5 produced, engineered, mixed and recorded to tape by Ben Moore at Big Fish Studios, San Diego, CA, United States in July 2003. Assisted by Jon Edwards, Dean Reis and Jason Clark.
Track 6 produced by Adam Ellis and My Awesome Compilation, engineered and mixed by Adam Ellis and recorded at Deadline Studios, Leicester. Originally released on the My Awesome Compilation, Big Scary Monsters recording, 'Every Souvenier Has A Story.'
All songs written and performed by My Awesome Compilation
Artwork, design and layout by Jaime Macefield
Additional ilustation by Angharad Cooper
Photography by Emily Graham, Vikki Macefield and James Bandey
Band Members;
Chris Driver- Guitar and Vocals
Andy Driver- Drums
Darius Cobb- Bass amd Vocals
Woody Cobb- Keyboard, Piano and Backing Vocals
Official Band Website;
http://www.myawesomecompilation.com
