(Alternative/Rock/Prog-Rock) Incubus - A crow left of the murder...

[Damrod]

Incubus
A crow left of the murder...

http://images-eu.amazon.com/images/P/B000160Z0I.03.LZZZZZZZ.jpg

Track Listing:
1 Megalomaniac
2 A crow left of the murder
3 Agoraphobia
4 Talk shows on mute
5 Beware! Criminal
6 Sick Sad Little World
7 Pistola
8 Southern girl
9 Priceless
10 Zee Deveel
11 Made for TV movie
12 Smile Lines
13 Here in my room
14 Leech


Some Band history
Incubus originated in Calabasas, California in 1991, and was founded by Brandon Boyd (vocals), Michael Einzinger (guitars), Jose Pasillas II (drums) and Dirk Lance (bass). Later DJ Kilmore arrived (replacing DJ Life). After playing various shows at private and school partys, Incubus released their first album 'Fungus Amongus' in 1995. They had a hard metal sound with small elements of funk and jazz, which was developed further with the CD 'S.C.I.E.N.C.E' in 1997. The 1999 album 'Make yourself' marked a kind of breakthrough for the band, as they got more recognised by the public (mostly because of the song Drive, which had a lot of airplay). The album was also less metal, and more mellow. With some kind of punk twist and different influences. This was taken further with 'Morning View', released in 2001. A very mellow and good mooded album. With a lot of 'spheric' tunes. :) After a creative pause the follow up was released, the 2004 'A crow left of the murder'. Dirk Lance was replaced by Ben Kenney of the Roots, as Dirk left the band for yet unknown reasons in 2003.



Some general impressions
Here it is, probably the album I was looking forward to since hearing of it's release date in October or November 2003. With a mixture of feelings after the departure of Dirk Lance, and a guitarist taking over for him.

I must confess, I was very suprised in a positive way. The album kicks off well. The bass lines of Ben Kenney are not as simple as I expected them to be. In fact, they are really nicely done, and a hell of a lot of fun to listen to and to play. The overall playing of the band has changed in a way. Mike Einzinger seems to use less effects as on Morning View and Make Yourself IMO. And DJ Kilmore takes up more space in the songs as on the previous records, but is still more in the background. Overall, the album has a much more Prog-Rock/Punk appeal.

Which makes it hard to directly compare it to it with the previous records. The mood of the record is not as cheerfull as on Morning View. The record sounds more like Make yourself, but only in pieces. I find it very hard to compare it to the two previous ones, I just lack the appropiate words, sorry... :(

Anyways, what is kinda new on this album is the presence of instrumental parts in songs. Where Brandon Boyd filled/accompanied the others with his notorious "ohhhs" and "ahhhs", he is more and more often just silent. Or sometimes in parts of songs just recognised by a clapping of hands. Brandon developed his skills as well. His singing got even better. The absence of vocals in some parts of the songs has a wierd side effect (at least for me): The songs seem to be longer. Funny stuff.

At the beginning of the record, with songs like 'Talk Shows on mute' for instance, there are parallels(sp?) hearable to the previous albums, especially 'Make yourself'. But the further you work your way through the album, the more different do they sound. The first time you hear this album, it holds a lot of suprises for the listener who knows the previous work of Incubus.

Be sure to pick up the Special Edition including a DVD. The DVD shows interesting footage of the studio work, some live footage, and two short movies. I won't say anything about it here, not to spoil anything. Just be sure to check it out. It's worth it. :)

What I really like about the album:
The bass playing is really great. Better as I had expected it. The sound of Incubus changed once again, and there is a clear progress visible. After the kinda wah dominated and easy mooded 'Morning View', Incubus take a new direction into a more 'heavier' sound. Regarding instruments and mood/lyrical-wise. It's really great to see, that Incubus try to develop further. Great stuff.

What was not so good:
I must confess, I have some negative points on this record. I miss songs like 'Wish you where here'. Songs that just express your good mood, you think of when feeling great. Until now, I have not found such a song on "A crow...". The overall mood of the record is much more 'darker' and more 'melancholic' in a way. It's a bit disapointing, but not that supring. After all, nearly 2 years passed since the work on Morning View. A lot of new expiriences were surely made and influenced the band. Still, for me this change of mood is themajor drawback of the album till now.


Summary:
The work on this record is great. Though I'm still a bit disappointed about this mood change, I'm nonetheless impressed by Ben Kenney as addition on bass as in creativity. I think one of the major reasons for the change of sound was his influence in the creative process. I don't know how to describe it better as to say: This album is brilliant, great piece of music from a great band.

My song suggestions: "Megalomaniac" (general impression), "Sick Sad Little World" (with big instrumental part in the middle of the song. Great!), "Pistola" (very energetic and powerful), "Here in my room" (more quiet song, with a touch of a ballad)

Rating: 4/5 :thumb:

[Kaden]

I will definitely be picking this up.:) I used to be really into Incubus, then my music tastes changed somewhat, and from your review it seems as though Incubus's sound has changed accordingly.

[Kif]

A very cool album and definatly a competitor for my money against Lostprophets - Start Something. Great review as well.

4/5

[brycey]

great review. :thumb:

i'm not a fan of incubus, but after hearing their new song, i want to hear more.

[PimpDaddyKabZ]

huge review soon to come by me...

[RollerQueen]

Good review, Damrod :thumb:
I got it yesterday morning, as soon as the music store opened. After hearing the live tracks from Lollapalooza, I wasn't very impressed. It might have been the quality or the feel of the song, but "Megalomaniac" and "Pistola" bored me after two listens. Still, I had faith in Incubus that they could make me love them like in the S.C.I.E.N.C.E. days. With that in mind, I turn the stereo on and sat back to listen to their latest offering.

I am impressed. Mikey expresses himself a lot differently and has more diverse guitar lines, Jose plays some very interesting material on some songs, Brandon's lyrics aren't stylistically different but that isn't a bad thing and his delivery & range are something that even old fans will find intriguing, Ben keeps things moving along and compliments Mikey very well when the guitar goes off on a tangent, and DJ Kilmore's quality as a member of the band and not an exhibitional instrumentalist is again wonderfully shown throughout the album. The title track's guitar is very different from what some would expect from Incubus and Mr. Boyd's delivery of "IT ALL!" in the chorus comes as a surprise. "Pistola" sounds like the lovechild of Modest Mouse and The Mars Volta, showing how Lollapalooza may have influenced their sound a bit. Boyd's singing is threateningly low on "Made for TV Movie" and sets the mood perfectly. Finally, "Here In My Room" is such a beautiful song about cheap sex that is more poetic than vulgar and so tongue-in-cheek, you have to grin when looking at the lyrics.

So this turned into a small review. Sorry about that. I'm just hyped about the album after waning interest in Make Yourself and being somewhat let down with Morning View. Chances are, it won't instantly turn you into an Incubus fan, but even if you've been with them since Fungus Amoungus, you may be surprised at how much they've changed between albums.

4/5

[Tomahawk]

I like this album more than I expected to. I think it really gets good after the first 5 tracks. I really like all the songs from "Sick Sad Little World" onwards, except for "Smile Lines". And the track order seems a bit wrong, ie: "Here In My Room" should be the last song. But yeh, I think it's their second best LP.

[Shagrath1788]

AMAZING ALBUM! it seems to get better every time i listen to it! I pre-ordered it so i got it a day early, and i have constantly been impressed with this album! 4/5! and yes, Here in my Room should be last

[madthumbs]

i have to say i was greatly dissapointed with this album, the whole element of new rock style was there and i really don't like it, brandon's vocals are nothing compared to how they used to be, the bass in the album is so ugly, dirk lance should have never of left. Pistola would have to be one of the songs i really hate. what were they thinking. Mike's instrumental abilities are dying in this album. I was dissapointed with the album, but it may grow on me as many albums do.
2/5

[Delirium]

Mike's instrumental abilities are dying in this album.

What album were you listening to?

Sick Sad Little World? (extremely melodic main riff...a huge 2min guitar solo...Vai-ish licks...Eric Johnson's "koto" plucking technique...spacey effects...did you skip over that track?)
Pistola? (a bridge section that Alex Lifeson from Rush could have written...soloing and riffing over alternating bars of 6/4 and 7/4)
Priceless? (another awesome solo section that sounds a bit like something from Primus...some more Vai-ish fast licks)

...and that's just talking mostly about guitar solos. Mike's chordwork, rhythm and riffing are awesome as always. Plus he even plays a bit of piano on this album. Unlike some of their Incubus' former fans, Mike probably realized with these last few albums that 90's era funk-metal isn't the only way to express one's musicality. Like the album or not, anybody with ears can tell you that Mikey's "instrumental abilities" are just fine.

[madthumbs]

i worded that wrong, the whole band has changed their style in this album, and i mean eveery incubus album has never been alot like another one, and usually mike plays riffs, solo's that are alot more melow, i just don't like the album that much... maybe i was looking for a reason to explain why.

[PimpDaddyKabZ]

Ok....to start off. I'm surprised as hell by the bass work....I was expecting a really toned down, non-based driven album, but I was wrong. All my comments here are from hearing the album for the first time, and it is whatever went through my head as I simultaneously listened and wrote my review. I use the word "vibe(s)" a lot. Here is my full review track by track:

PART I

1) Megalomaniac: Great opener, a lot of old school vibes. Great riffing too. Lyrics are abstract, but classical Incubus style. (5/5)

2) A Crow Left of the Murder: I love the opening riff so much, more classical Incubus elements here. (S.C.I.E.N.C.E. / Make Yourself type sound). The vocals are really different and unlike anything Brandon Boyd has done before. There's a really off-rhythm vibe to it, and I'm picking up some punk elements to the song. (4.5/5)

3) Agoraphobia - Mellow vibes, dreamlike sound, kinda boring, but it picks up at the bridge. More of a Make Yourself vibe. I love the guitar tone, and the way it ends is great. (4/5)

4) Talk Shows on Mute: Kind of an old rock and roll/jazz feel to it. For some reason it reminds me of Weezer (Buddy Holly)/Happy Days and **** like that. It has a mellow sound, apart from the above description, my other take on it is like a surfer themed song, but Jazzy overall. (3.5/5)

5) Beware! Criminal: Dark atmospheric vibe, then a rocking chorus. I get a 90's rock feel from this song. Its a new type of sound for Incubus. Some trippy vibes going on, typical phaser sounds from Mike. I love the way the song is structured. Their originality stands out a lot which is why I love Incubus so much. (4/5)

6) Sick Sad Little World: My favorite song so far on the album. Cool as hell riffs in the first minute. I love it. Lyrically, the song just does it for me, its great. Vocally: Brandon has done an amazin job. I love the vibe and again the riffs are rockin as hell and the tone is perfect. There's a trippy acid-riock/jam band sounding solo (I pick up some Floyd/Mars Volta/Phish type vibes in it). I never heard a solo from Einziger quite like this. I love it. I can pick up some Morning View vibes also. (5/5)

7) Pistola: A rock-out Incubus song. It is upbeat and will probably end up a classic. This is the type fans look forward to in a concert. More cool riffage, and another kickass solo from Mike Einziger. Big Bass-driven sounds in this song also. (4/5)

End Part I

Part II soon to come

[PimpDaddyKabZ]

Part II

8) Southern Girl: I love the opening riffs once again. Mellow Country vibes, great stuff. Small solo breakdown again. Bass is big in this song if I remember correct. I love the rhythm and the beats. A new sound for Incubus which I wholeheartedly embrace. (5/5)

9) Priceless: For a second I didn't think I was listening to Incubus here. Heavy, dissonant, but perfect. I get some Deftones influences in here big-time. Still, even as different as it sounds, it always has those signature Incubus fills and sounds here and there. Breakdown is like a jazz/fusion ball of music. Notes thrown here and there in a frenzy that just come together to make abstract music. Another great solo once again from Einziger that fits this song perfectly. (5/5)

10) Zee Deveel: Classic Incubus lyrics here. Riffage is very experimental as the whole album has been thus far. Again a trippy acid-rock sounding solo. Mike Einziger is really experimenting on this album, and so is Brandon Boyd. I get some Bungle vibes and influences in here definitely....there are Patton-inspired moments no doubt! (4.5/5)

11) Made for TV Movie: Another catchy off-beat Incubus intro. The Vocal approach is different as you can easily catch. It is heavy and has a grungy air to the tone. I can see it as the next single perhaps. (4/5)

12) Smile Lines: Unique composition. I love the riffs, it really sets the tone for the vocals. Lyrically, it is something I expect from Brandon Boyd. I'm enjoying this a lot. The bridg gives a really different vibe from Mike Einziger. (4.5/5)

13) Here in my Room: A piano intro. Very unexpected. Sounds slightly ball-like in the beginning. There is a somber feeling to the song, I am reminded of Coldplay. It is probably the most uncharacteristic Incubus song that has been made. Very different, but I also see this as possibily being the next single. It is more poppy, yet dark. (3.5/5)

14) Leech: Last track. This is what I'm talking about! This is a great capper to a kickass record. "The ride's over. Did you enjoy yourself?" Brandon Boyd sings. This is a song that stands out, but it definitely gives the Classical-Incubus vibe to it. Some RATM influences here for sure. It's experimental and all over the place. (4.5/5)

Overall......I loved the album. Like all Incubus albums, it takes several listens to fully digest, but so far....I'm loving it. Morning View was an album that I said "I don't think I'll like this at all" and I loved it. This is one of Incubus' stronger works for sure.

Bottom Line: I give the album a 9.5 out of 10

[OrbDragon]

I'm getting more and more into Incubus! And this record I really like...great reviews so far too. I'm pretty amazed to say that I like this better than Morning View...despite the fact that this cd isn't as diverse. The songs are very well written, and are unconventional. Incubus is a great example of a band that deserves the exposure they get, because they are clearly writing music for musics sake...they didn't let fame go through their heads like most mainstream rock bands.

Here is my review:

01 Megalomaniac
I'm not really impressed with the track opener...maybe it's because I've heard the song a bit too often. It sounds alot like a song that would fit on Make Yourself. I love the drummers subtle high hat work in the bridge...this guy is solid. He drums with enough dynamic to fit a rock outfit, but he does alot of nice interesting things, like little licks with the toms, cymbal bells, open hi-hat and splash. I don't like the heavier part of the bridge in Megalomaniac...it's a bit too forced...doesn't flow well with the rest of the song. 3/5

02 A Crow Left Of The Murder
The title track is interesting...very uptempo with subtle riffage. The chorus is very intense and heavy melodic. The song flows very well. I like the vocal lines in the bridge...and the reward...a nice heavy melodic part with a great drum&bass beat. 4/5

03 Agoraphobia
I like this one too. It's seems really straight forward at first glance, but it's pretty sophisticated too. The song seems to change moods through certain parts. The beginning verses are timid, and the "please end this before it ends us" part is more melodic, with an interesting beat...while the chorus is stripped a more straigh up rock. The three parts really work well together. The bridge is very arranged, but drifts away perfectly to a part where just Brandon and Mike do the chorus. 4.5/5

04 Talk Shows On Mute
This is definately a single...I like it alot. The vocal lines are very cliché...which makes it very appealing to alot of people. It's a poppy song....and the vocals are great. But the highlight is that nice little solo Mike does...great stuff. The song fades out until you hear Brandon sing a-capella. 4/5

05 Beware! Criminal
Another good melodic song. Not much to say...I like the bridge with that flamenco-like beat driven by rim shots. 4/5

06 Sick Sad Little World
This is another highlight on the record...once again you hear the drummer doing those nifty hi-hat patterns. The guitars and bass sound as if they are fired from a shotgun the the verse...sounds cool. It goes into a really unconventional part with vague piano soundscapes before the chorus kicks in. I don't like the electronic effect in the vocals there, but it doesn't ruin much. Like the other reviewers said...it has a very psychedelic, jam session like part with a cool guitar solo that has some eastern melodies. Mental. 4.5/5

07 Pistola
It's a cool all-out rocker. The vocals in the chorus have amazing range. The best part is that strange guitar solo, that reminds me of Jonny Greenwoods guitar work (a bit). The clapping is a fun tidbit too. 4/5

08 Southern Girl
A nice smooth love ballad...it's pretty good. The backing vocals give it a really soothing feeling...this record should have been released in the summer :) 3.5/5

09 Priceless
This track is very theatrical...it has a cool bridge that shows off the musicality of each band member. 4/5

10 Zee Deveel
I don't like this track...it sounds like Faith No More made a come back or something. Good musicianship...but it gets pretty repetitive after awhile. 2.5/5

11 Made For TV Movie
The verses sound like something Oasis would do...and the chorus is a bit too conventional for my liking, but I'm impressed with the vocals once again. 3/5

12 Smile Lines
Another solid track. This song reminds me a bit of The Pixies...especially the chorusses. 4/5

13 Here In My Room
This is a good song...it's more piano oriented, and once again it stays true to the fact that this band does something they haven't done before with each release. Kilmore really shines in this track, with some cool soundscapes. The melodies remind me a bit of Radiohead. 4/5

14 Leech
Another similair track to "Pistola" and "Smile Lines"...it's pretty solid overall...it summarizes the rest of the album well...making it a good closer. 4/5

Overall: 4/5

This band keeps impressing me...they are constantly evolving, and getting better and better, contrary to many other mainstream acts in their generation. Worthy followers to the Faith No Mores, Primusses, Jane's Addictions and RHCP's of the world.

[PimpDaddyKabZ]

see you're taking my style Orb......heh....

glad you're getting into Incubus

[The Doinck]

I'll be giving a huge review as well, because I love this album and have to put in my two cents. I'll also predict my picks for the singles (there's 5 or 6 that I can count as being radio hits).

[Porn*]

i've heard that agoraphobia will be the next single. I am obsessed with Incubus. Have been since S.C.I.E.N.C.E. I dont feel like writing out a huge report on the cd. It's absolutly amazing. I can't compare it to any of their other stuff because it is unique and unlike everything. If anyone has questions... i'll probably know the answers.

Cheers.

[madthumbs]

please disregard in comments i have made in this thread. I love this album now, i started really listening to it yesterday and i really do like it. And after listening to the Points that delirium made i really do like it. Pistola is my least favorite song on the album becuase i don't find ti as nice to listen to as other songs. My favorite song wold be Turbo Geek or Beware! Criminal.. so yeah im glad that i have grown to like the album so quickly coz now i will be able to see them in march

[IsItLuck?]

Great CD, thanks for the review, some excellent songs in my opinion goes as follows in order of how I like them :thumb:

1. Beware! Criminal
2. Leech
3. A Crow Left of the Murder
4. Pistola
5. Sick Sad Little World

CD as a whole 4/5 (Zee Deveel and Talk Shows on Mute turned me off to a better rating :angry: )

Cheers

[azwethinkweiz]

Love this album.
I love how Incubus just evolve with every album. I really didnt expect this change but i love it.

It has something for everyone and i think their musicianship has once again become more evident.

Really looking foward to seeing this album performed live!

FAv Tracks

Leech
Sick Sad Little World
Beware Criminal
ACLOTM
Smile Lines
Talk Shows on Mute (should be the next single)

[FillInTheBlankHere___]

I will definitely be picking this up.:) I used to be really into Incubus, then my music tastes changed somewhat, and from your review it seems as though Incubus's sound has changed accordingly.
My thoughts exactly. I *almost* bought it yesterday, but wanted to hear more reviews, and make sure I had enough money for the hi hat clutch. I'll see if I can pick it up tomorrow.

[Omega Red]

im a huge incubus fan.
*wait*
i was a big incubus fan. the chill groovy image they had personified my dream as a musician. funky-jazzy-rock matched with beauity lyrics made this band great and i don't know what happened but i hated this album. i thought it was boring. what made the title track great was used in the rest of the songs and made it seem mundane. ben kenney is not the smooth player that incubus bring to my mind.

[j_hop_jer]

This is Incubus's newest cd. Personally i wasnt too much of a fan and then i heard the first single from the cd "Megalomaniac" and i was like "Humm pretty enjoyable" and i just went and got the cd.
Well heres the run down of the tracks:
1. Megalomaniac - It has some stupid static stuff at the start, and i didnt like that. The song is good lyricly and i did enjoy it.
2. A Crow Left Of The Murder - this has to be one of the good songs on the cd. i really hope there old stuff sounds like this song(and not like "drive", but it was a good slow song) and well this was a **** good song.
3. Agoraphobia - this song was ok. i liked the verses. but the pre chorus was horrible "please end this......." that part. but then i liked the chorus. it was ok of a song.
4. Talk Shows On Mute - i liked the guitar part with the intro. and i cant really listen to the rest...it just is boring for me i guess. and well i dont know if any one catches this but they say "come on come all. to 1984." but when i listen to the song it has nothing to do with the book unless its not about the book?
5. Beware! Criminal - has a bit of a slow start but it picks up...i say its one of the best songs on the cd. its **** good.
6. Sick Sad Little World - i liked the intro. the lyrics are pretty likeable i found. then it slows down a bit, then picks up...kinda like a few of there songs. but i like this one.
7. Pistola - the intro had stupid sound things. but i liked this song, another one of the good ones on the cd. i love the lyrics in it. i like the bass riff in it. and the chourus was catchy.
8. Southern Girl - personally i didnt like this song since i first heard it. and i skip it all the time. and i dont wanna listen to it. soooo yea lets say its not very good in my ears...maybe differnt for you.
9. Priceless-id like to say this is a bit 'faster paced' song and i liked it alot...another one of the good songs. i just love the vocals.
10. Zee Deveel - i didnt like this song very much...and it reminds me of a different song that i just cant remeber. well just the rhythem does. and well yea. not a very good song, and i usally skip it.
11. Made For TV Movie - i enjoyed this song...i just liked the way that the vocals sounded. the lyrics were a bit boring after awhile, yet still good. and it did the slow, faster thing that they usally do.
12. Smile Lines - personally i find this song a bit boring. and i can never listen to the hole thing.
13. Here In My Room - this is my favorite song on the cd. i really liked it for the vocals and how it was all slow and the lyrics just were so great. best song on the cd...reminded me of "drive" but not accustic and way better.
14. Leech - i liked this song. it just is so catchy and what not. its great. a good one!

Well i give this cd a 7/10 but i never really listened to there old stuff besides "drive" and "i miss you"...soo i didnt knwo what to expet besides a bit of a slowish band...but they werent anything like i was expecting after i heard "megalomaniac" which was cool. id recomend this if you have a extra $20 for a cd.

[Drunk Hobo]

I haven't heard any of their stuff since I got Morning View. I'll check it out though.

[br3ad_man]

This is going to get closed. Put your review in the original review thread before it does.

[moghedian666]

their best was SCIENCE....didnt like morning view much....got tired listening to his vocal strategies....

[brill_boy]

their best was SCIENCE....didnt like morning view much....got tired listening to his vocal strategies....

SCIENCE had **** lyrics but it still and awesome album. Theyre best would have to be Make Yourself but i havent heard crow left of muder

[burn piano island, burn]

Every album by Incubus was unique in it's own way so they're all pretty good.

[robnathanson]

this has been done already


Sting ray, close this

and/or merge it into the original thread.
;)

[sting-ray]

i bought the cd yesterday. It is great.

[sting-ray]

this has been done already


Sting ray, close this

and/or merge it into the original thread.
;)


good call; i'm on it.

[cytoplasmicblob]

i come looking for one review and find many...confusing

[drumstylee]

Very dissapointed.....Ben Kenney's bass playing is uninspiring. Perhaps the new material was the reason why Dirk left in the first place!

[airplanefoodjoke]

very good cd, i can listen to the whole thing w/o skipping and fully enjoy myself.

4.5/5

[Blue Collar Tweeker]

SCIENCE had **** lyrics but it still and awesome album. Theyre best would have to be Make Yourself but i havent heard crow left of muder

SCIENCE had **** lyrics, you cant be serious?

[fugazi_punk]

Good review...I've got to say 'Megalomaniac' got me hooked on that CD....that and 'Sick Sad Little World'....

[Fender_Strat8915]

hey guys go listen to something else...u are wasting ure time there is way better music out there

[Damrod]

hey guys go listen to something else...u are wasting ure time there is way better music out there

Coming from someone who states "KoRn rulz!"... :rolleyes:

Let everyone listen to what they want, otherwise you will have a hard time here in these forums. :thumb:

[monkeyranch1325]

big rewiew for aclotm soon guys :thumb:

[YDload]

I can't stand this. The song "Megalomaniac" was played twice in less than three hours on my radio station, and it's really starting to bug me. Brandon's voice stays at the same generally-annoying timbre throughout the whole song, and the twangy bass seems to indicate that this hip-hop-influenced bassist just wants to sound like Justin Chancellor. I will not buy this album ever, and am thoroughly disgusted by their lame attempts at being politically-motivated.

However, if anyone has some recommedations for other tracks on the album that are likely better than the single, I would certainly give it a listen!

[village_idiot]

Oh man, you really should. I thought the CD might be really political and stuff judging from their first single and the video. But I was wrong and i really enjoyed it. Here is a couple of the songs I liked a lot.

Sick Sad Little World - all around good song
Pistola - really fun to listen to, i also love the solo
Priceless - i only listen to this song for the solo, amazing
Leech - very catchy but not as a bad thing, i liked the guitar

I play guitar so that might mean my opinion on songs is sort of biased but you should really give them all a listen. I just love the guitar in this album. I unfortunately have not listened to any of their previous albums other than the singles. Maybe I will now.

[PimpDaddyKabZ]

I can't stop listening to this CD.
I listen to it everyday in my car, and its just so good.
Incubus has hit gold here.....I am so impressed and proud to have them as a favorite band of mine even though that sounds cheesy as hell.
This album grows on me with every listen.....definitely will go down as a favorite.

[segment]

Yeah, I've been listening to it pretty much everyday since it came out. Unlike most people, my favorite song on it is Zee Deveel. I love the 'swing' to it, and the drumming is pretty nice, too. SCIENCE is my favorite though.

[village_idiot]

Two of my favorites are priceless and leech and it seems nobody likes those. Really all the songs are good, and did I say the guitar is amazing? I can't get enough of this album, ahhh. My friend asked me what CD I was listening to today and I told him this CD and he was "what is that the only cd you got? listen to something else". Then I told him how great it was and went back to listening. Amazing.

[mikeenzgristheman02]

definitely... i think the new album is awesome...mike has really opened up and started to expand his guitar abilities...and ben kenney is just a badass
anyways i was wondering if anyone has heard about that one song that incubus edited out of the final product of ACLOTM. in one magazine Mike said it was a "22 minute rock odyessy" and i was just wondering is anyone has heard it or where you can hear it cause as a guitarist my self i would love to listen to mike and ben jamming out for 22 minutes that would rule

[incubliss]

some good reviews on this page. being a massive incubus fan i am, i was gonna do a review on the album the day i got it, but i completely forgot. i got half way through and now it seems pointless to do one with so many here.

it is a great album, but it isn't my favourite sadly. i really do like this album, but it isn't my favourite of the 5. that goes to SCIENCE or fungus, hands down. it is a very good album, and if people find Megalomaniac a good song, venture further onto the cd, and you will find much better music.

Sick Sad Little World
A Crow Left of the Murder
Priceless
Smile Lines
Leech

those being my favourite tracks on the album, i do like the others, but i don't hold 1 or 2 of them in any high regard.

anyone had a listen to Monuments and Melodies, i'm not sure when it was released, or on what (apparently the Megalomaniac single). it is quite similar to Here In My Room, slower song, quite nice, but not what i was expecting.

now, if you have the DVD that came with the CD, you may have watched it all, but have a watch of the video While We Were Out (the making of the album) and just as the short film starts you hear a little snippet of a song. this song is Pantomime. a 22 minute long rock oddysey. it is going to be released very very soon i hear, and i can't wait. if you didn't get the DVD, head on over too;

http://www.enjoyincubus.com

have a listen to the intro, that is the same snippet. althroughout the DVD you hear little snippets of the song, i can't wait to hear it in it's full entireity.

anyone going to see them on June 7th in Cardiff, Wales. i am, and i can't fecking wait. i will bring my digi cam and get some pics up on the net of the day for you guys to have a gander at.

back to the album. it is, i feel, a weaker album, but i still like it. it has it's great qualities about it, and somevery minor bad qualities. it isn't perfect, and there are mistakes (look out for them). out of 10, i would give this album an 8. it still plays on my cd player, just not as much as Lateralus, i don't i am ever going to put that album down.

[FACELESSnotBASSLESS]

I just gave it a listen today. I really liked it! I'm no old school fan of Incubus, as I never heard of them before Make Yourself, and this is the first full Incubus CD in my collection, but I really like it. Some of the tracks that really stand out to me are 'Leech,' 'Priceless,' 'A Crow Left of the Murder,' and 'Pistola.' I've heard a few tracks from SCIENCE, but I'm going to have to check out more.

[Porn*]

Love this album.
I love how Incubus just evolve with every album. I really didnt expect this change but i love it.

It has something for everyone and i think their musicianship has once again become more evident.

Really looking foward to seeing this album performed live!

FAv Tracks

Leech
Sick Sad Little World
Beware Criminal
ACLOTM
Smile Lines
Talk Shows on Mute (should be the next single)
now thats what i call a pimp username!!! *bow*

[Zppln]

Perhaps I'll pick this album up

[peaveyinculeech1024]

i worded that wrong, the whole band has changed their style in this album, and i mean eveery incubus album has never been alot like another one, and usually mike plays riffs, solo's that are alot more melow, i just don't like the album that much... maybe i was looking for a reason to explain why.
undefinedI disagree completely.....like the cd itself is totally awesome........i think that it is one of their best albums.......granted it is not as mellow as morning view......its not as hard as science ........and on and on and on........but the cd is great......i am a big fan of incubus and all of their work..........ben kenny is a good addition to incubus though dirk had to go......sad ...but without dirk lance what would incubus....be......ummmm.......yep you got it new incubus ........ben kenny incubus........hes a great bassist.......i was very pleased with the whole cd :) :D :thumb: :) :D :D :D

[the_homeless]

undefinedI disagree completely.....like the cd itself is totally awesome........i think that it is one of their best albums.......granted it is not as mellow as morning view......its not as hard as science ........and on and on and on........but the cd is great......i am a big fan of incubus and all of their work..........ben kenny is a good addition to incubus though dirk had to go......sad ...but without dirk lance what would incubus....be......ummmm.......yep you got it new incubus ........ben kenny incubus........hes a great bassist.......i was very pleased with the whole cd :) :D :thumb: :) :D :D :D

man, you don't speak very well do you?
:) :D :thumb:

4/5

[Rockerfortheages]

this is a big step for incubus. i picked it up thinking alright i like the megalomaniac song but that is probly not even in the top 5 best songs on that cd. best cd from incubus yet.

[DFelon204409]

"Southern Girl" or whatever it's called is an uncanny impression of The Blood Brothers but without screaming. Brandon never was a good screamer.

[SubtleDagger]

I can't stand this. The song "Megalomaniac" was played twice in less than three hours on my radio station, and it's really starting to bug me. Brandon's voice stays at the same generally-annoying timbre throughout the whole song, and the twangy bass seems to indicate that this hip-hop-influenced bassist just wants to sound like Justin Chancellor. I will not buy this album ever, and am thoroughly disgusted by their lame attempts at being politically-motivated.

However, if anyone has some recommedations for other tracks on the album that are likely better than the single, I would certainly give it a listen!
Oh good, I thought I was the only one.

Let me be the first to say that I liked Incubus just a bit before Morning View. I appreciated most of the tracks off of Make Yourself (other than "Drive"... ugh...), and Morning View was a pretty big letdown for me. Boring songs that didn't go anywhere, generic feel to everything... it wasn't good. Then I hear "Megalomaniac", and I was just disgusted. Yes, they've changed; for the worse. This song is just so bad to me. The mix is horrid, the singing is lifeless and irritating, the arrangements are pitiful.

Needless to say, I haven't bought the record, and I'm not really sure I would want to, considering that in just about every review in this thread, "Megalomaniac" has gotten praise. If songs on this album sound anything like that, I want nothing to do with them.

[DFelon204409]

Morning View may have been boring but at least it had "Echoes" and "Acqeous Transmission." That is boring done beautifully!

[captainguitarist]

I personally love this album, great mood music

[Natattack87]

I'm definitally a fan of this one. I really like the writing, and the instrumentals are a little different than what they usually do, but it still does justice to their sound. I give them props.

[RIPJoeStrummer]

Copy and Pasted from my review in alt/indie:


------------
Incubus - A Crow Left Of the Mureder... - (Immortal Records, 2004)

Tracks: 14

I went out to lunch last friday and decided to stop by HMV when I saw the new Incubus CD and I had to buy it. I've never been a huge Incubus fan but after hearing Megalomaniac, I had to buy it, and what a suprise.

(1) Megalomaniac - The new single, I'm sure you've all heard it. Very good anti-Bush/Blair song, great lyrics.

(2) A Crow Left Of The Murder - The title track. Amazing instrumentals, the main riff is incredibly catchy.

(3) Agorapobia - A little softer than the first two but still very melodic and great vocals.

(4) Talk Show On Mute - Another very melodic song, really good guitar. The acoustic version they play on the bonus DVD is great. I've never been a big fan of the whole DJ idea but this song has some great turntable work.

(5) Beware! Criminal - Heavier than the last two but yet again the vocals and the lyrics are amazing.

(6) Sick Sad Little World - I really enjoyed the guitar in this song, it sounds like alot of work went into it and it's writen beautifully

(7) Pistola - My favorite song on the new CD. The guitar again is excellent. Brandon's vocals are great. The bridge is really interesting an I think it really shows how well the new bassist, Ben Kenney, really fits into the song writing. Very good bass work.

(8) Southern Girl - This wasn't one of the better songs when I got the CD but it's really grown on me, great song.

(9) Priceless - Awesome drum intro and overall great instrumentals.

(10) Zee Deveel - Interesting, cool guitar line at the start. I love hearing Brandon belt out "You should be careful what you wish for!"

(11) Made for TV Movie - Another of the softer songs, great chorus.

(12) Smile Lines - Really good vocals in this song and a cool guitar solo.

(13) Here In My Room - Great lyrics, not much else to say, it's a solid song.

(14) Leech - Good song, sort of erie but it's got a really cool feel to it.

This CD is suprisingly very good and it seems like a whole new direction for Incubus, I definetly recomend it. :thumb:

4/5
----------

[Torkedera]

Does anyone here personally think that they changed styles.

[Damrod]

Does anyone here personally think that they changed styles.

They changed with every album. They got harder, mellower, more funky, more jazzy, more rocky... Every album was different on it's own. That's what makes Incubus so interesting when they publish a new album. :)

[Torkedera]

They changed with every album. They got harder, mellower, more funky, more jazzy, more rocky... Every album was different on it's own. That's what makes Incubus so interesting when they publish a new album. :)

heheh....very true, whats ur favorite album?

[azwethinkweiz]

SCIENCE and Fungus.

anyone here who doesn't like the new album and hasn't heard those two albums doesn't know what Incubus is about.

I can understand why ppl don't like the new album but don't diss Incubus becuase of it
For all you guys who haven't heard these two albums have a listen and then judge incubus.

[Caca Monster]

Very good album. I give it a 9/10 because i still think S.C.I.E.N.C.E. and Make Yourself are better albums. My favorate songs were Sick Sad Little Wolrd and Here In My Room... There's just something about hearing Incubus use a piano in one of their songs :) .

[Shockwave]

i feel that this is incubus finally realizing themselves...however i believe the songs on make yourself were more immediately memorable

[sloburnt]

I haven't sunk my teeth into it yet, even though I've had it since it's release. Original impression was that it didn't venture too far, compared to the other album progressions. Sounding kind of beenthere and tired, but of course I haven't listened to it that much yet. In good time, though, I'm sure I'll form a better opinion.

I noticed a lot of people are throwing out there that Fungus and SCIENCE are definitive Incubus. I 1st got into them with Make Yourself, and then Morning View...Both of which are epic (and would absolutely recommend), as where the prior 2 are more (Well atleast Fungus) is kind of a rip of musical influences(Boyd admittedly has stated).

As I sometimes find with some bands, around their 5th or so album, try to mash all their styles into one refined sound. Nothing new, nothing old, just rehashed.

HOpe when I do hear this album out a proper # of times, I can see past what seems kind of dull. If not, oh well, there's plenty other stuff out there.

Hope I'm wrong!

[Shadowed Reflection]

I had morning veiw b4 i got this, and i think this album is better. In some ways there different albums. I didnt really like Talk shows on mute, here in my room and southern girl. My faveourite tracks:
1. ACLOTM
2. Megalomaiac
3. Pistola
4. Beware! Criminal
5. Made for T.V. Movie
I also like smile lines, Agrophobia and leech.
Personally, i reckon that the slow bits on Sick Sad little world ruin it a bit.
Priceless sounds like Incubus at the start but the chorus sounds like a completely different band.
I liked the verse in Agrophobia, but the chorus is a little boring.
Kilmore does something in almost every song, but in Morning veiw, hes only on a couple of songs. I found that Kilmore is mostly at the start.
I loove the riff in ACLOTM and the lyrics are pretty cool too.
The breakdown in Megalomaniac (before the you aint no Jesus, you aint no elvis, there are no answears) is great, the little riff has a great vibe to it. Video clips a little weird but.
Ben Kenny is a great bass player, and i think he stands out a lot better than Dirk.
Anyway, thats my two cents, i give this album a 9/10.
By the way, i looking around the mall for Make yourself, and no C.D. Stores have it, but they should so i had to reserve it and now i have to wait a WHOLE week, just because of there incompetence to order it in for people to buy. I saw on their computer and heaps of people were reserving it as well, so they should stock all albums by a band that releases a new one, because, people might like their new one and want to buy an older album.
I guess that makes that my 3 cents :p. Thanks for reading!

[~*anti-gravity*~]

Good review...I've got to say 'Megalomaniac' got me hooked on that CD....that and 'Sick Sad Little World'....

Hey... where did you get your picture? It's great.. I really like it!


about aclotm... I love it, like all their stuff! they are awesome, and live they are even more kick *** then on the CD's... great job!

[Phunphone]

Well, I must say that at first I disliked this album, they've changed again... of course, I was expecting they would, but my first impressions were not good. but slowly, the album grew on me, and everytime ı listened to it, another detail amazed me. For example,

when all the band fades in at Beware, Criminal! amazement 1

the weird timing in the middle of Pistola (it goes 6/4-7/4-6/4-7/4, I guess) and the solo: amazement 2

the amazing solos in sick, sad, little world (my favorite song) and pirceless: amazement 3

when ı realized that the main riff of the title track is friggin' hard to play. amazement 4

meh, tooo many to count. This album will leave you crippled for a while. Trust me.

[Shadowed Reflection]

i went to www.ultimate-guitar.com and theres a tab there thats easier to play. I think its the 3rd version. Its hard to play at the speed of the actual track though. For some reason i dont really like sick sad little world but as i said earlier, the slow bits are depressing for me, dont ask me why though.

[jversluis88]

It's a great album. And the best part about the band itself is that their music always changes between albums, but I always seem to enjoy the new things they're coming out with.

[Frodo]

I like this album. Its quite fresh opposed to other mainstream rock coming out recently.
I believe this to be one of, if not their best album.

[TimReynolds]

this is a really great album, its not my favorite of theirs but its still awesome, the thing that bugs me is how hardly anyone seems to think that talk shows on mute is one of their best songs, anyways i think it expresses brandons vocals very well and is a great song all together...anyways peace ou :thumb: t

[dieseldrummer018]

i actually enjoyed some of the mellow songs on this cd...especially talk shows on mute and southern girl

[echi di caos 7]

this album was a disapointment not at all what i expected
2/5

[Justanothernimrod]

Incubus-a crow left of the murder…

When I heard that Incubus’s material was going to be sounding almost in between 2001’s masterpiece, Morning View and the first truly mainstream incubus album, Make Yourself (1999) and even mixed with some of their earlier funk stuff, despite the departure of Bassist, Dirk Lance, I was honestly excited. As a long-term Incubus fan I really did think that things were looking up for the recently quite stale band. When I heard a crow left on the murder…it was all of those things I was getting excited about, but somehow, it didn’t work. It started brilliantly, with the headstrong anthem that is “Megalomaniac� being one of the smartest, and arguably most original songs the band had done for quite some time. But, not long after the song was over, I found myself lost in the same sort of Riffs and Dj sounds and generally very basic and repetitive songs for nearly half of the album. At points it wasn’t actually distinctive as to what the tracks were. Tracks like “Pistola� and “Southern Girl� was just a shock to the system. Every album Incubus has kept them diverse with something new to enjoy on every track. So it was disappointing to find this bland album which leaves me feeling very disappointed because they have always progressed well in some ways on every album. However, at the last half an hour of the album, I found what I was waiting for. The last five or six tracks were the combined of everything good they have done so far and masterpieces they really were. I was all of a sudden interested again, enjoying every moment of it. In “Priceless� and “Zee Deveel� two tracks that led me back into Incubus’s original music. The music that made them the ever-exciting band they are today and highly enjoyable to listen to. Using all sorts of different elements such as, experimentalism and reintroducing fast, funky solos. And so at the end of the album, I was happy that there was still hope for them. Why Incubus made half an album of total bland and boring music, followed by a final half an hour of exciting, interesting and experimental tracks, is beyond me. This was a daring outing by Incubus, managing to combine all of their previous elements successfully, however for a lot of the songs it doesn’t work, and it just isn’t durable enough, which sadly, makes it miss the mark.

6/10

there you go.

[PunkPopMix6859]

I give it a 3.9/5

[Meklo]

Incubus : A Crow Left Of The Murder

Many people are unaware of the true nature of this band. Many were discouraged by tracks like "Warning" and "Are You In?", but Incubus are in many ways a very accomplished band.

Powerfull vocals provided by the lyrically adept Brandon Boyd ride on top of a barrage of melodic churning of Mike Eizinger..... with the added Bass Mastery of former roots man Ben Kenney.

Megalomaniac - Starts with static noise, and builds to a really emphatic opening for the album... Boyd screaming "you're no jesus/yes you're no ****ing elvis!" to close... and for the note, this wasn't originally intended as an anti Bush/Blair song - most people just interpereted it that way from Sigismondi's (sp?) video.

A Crow Left Of The Murder - The title track. This track really shows how great a melodic player Eizinger has become over the years, and Kenney's obvious input gives a real great sound.

Agoraphobia - A change from morning view, this track is a moderate paced angsty track..... one of my favourite lyrics "its just another day in the life of apes with ego trips" makes me like this one a little. Great Interlude reminiscent of Nice to know you.

Talk Shows On Mute - References to Orwells great book 1984... a slow one, with some strange lyrics. A nice song, but doesnt really rock.

Beware! Criminal - A slow and dark verse that builds up to a banging chorus of defiance " Im down but not out and far from done!"... a decent one, but maybe a little cliched.

Sick Sad Little World - Another track that Emphasises this albums more pessimistic tone. A bit of an experimental one..... a really long Guitar wank from Eizinger... an Ok tune though.

Pistola - The power of the pen. A great quirky track with really powerfull vocals on the chorus.... one of my favourites. The solo is really cool, and this is probably the most powerfull song vocally on the album.

Southern Girl - A bit of a sappy one, like some of Morning View. A decent bit of guitar work, but it all seems a little soft. It seems a little bit like a filler which is a pity...

Priceless - This is the one track I really dislike on the album. Its all very Blah, and I didnt like it at all. it seems almost unfinished. The intro drum riff reminded me of Blink 182 (urgh) and the song just didnt feel right.

Zee Deveel - Clunky Punky Riff.... a bit of a punk pop thing going on. It's a kinda catchy tune though, and it is ok to listen to. Not heavy, but not too light to dislike it.

Made For TV Movie - A bit of a "run of the mill" rock song i thought. Plain verses, but a rather catchy chorus "Hello, im trying to focus but my eyes decieve me".... Some good vocal bits, but essentially another "someone wrote this before" type song.

Smile Lines - This is probably my favourite track on the album. Its a really catchy tune with some good lyrics ("Insecurities are about as useful as trying to put the pin back in the grenade")... About wanting someone bad as the chorus suggests. It is poppy, but still has a rock tone which keeps its apeal.

Here In My Room - A bit of a haunting sound on this piano ballad type track. A bit quiet without much energy...... ok nevertheless.

Leech - A good track to end the album. With fitting lyrics "The rides over did you enjoy yourself/fairing well?"... The guitar part is interesting and unusual from the normal rock guitar sounds around nowadays.

Overall a good album IMO.... easy to listen to, with some good vocal and musical performances throughout.

For those who like Incubus, a must have - anyone else - now might be a good time to check them out. Its a decent CD.

7/10

[nirvanafreak]

this cd is good i made finally listen to make yourself wich i think is better im goona buy morning view one day
4/5

[Justanothernimrod]

Morning View = best album out of the mainstream incubus albums.

Im listening to it now infact.

Make yourself is too nu-metal.

[thursdaythrice]

Im thinking about buying this cd. Is the dvd that speacial? does it have alot of stuff on it? i heard megalomaniac,here in my room, and talk show on mute. there awesome songs.

the only other incubus album i have is morning view and i absoluley love it. Its o relaxing and gets me in a good mood

[Damrod]

Im thinking about buying this cd. Is the dvd that speacial? does it have alot of stuff on it? i heard megalomaniac,here in my room, and talk show on mute. there awesome songs.

the only other incubus album i have is morning view and i absoluley love it. Its o relaxing and gets me in a good mood

The DVD that came along with the album is ok. It shows some behind the scene footage from the production of the album, as well as a funny short film of how Brandon broke his leg. On there are also some live performances. Like I said, it's ok. It has not as much on it as for instance The Morning View Sessions-DVD, but as an extra to an album its ok.

[Justanothernimrod]

thursdaythrice, buy S.C.I.E.N.C.E and Fungus Amongus (and Enjoy Incbus should you want half of Fungus re-done with Dj Kilmore)

A crow is pretty poor as a whole.

Indivisual tracks are good, but generally I think this is a pretty bland album.

[guitariichick]

incubus just plain rocks and a crow left of the murder is an awesome album. of course bands will have their mood swings, no excuse they are still great. get the cd!! :thumb:

[guitariichick]

Im thinking about buying this cd. Is the dvd that speacial? does it have alot of stuff on it? i heard megalomaniac,here in my room, and talk show on mute. there awesome songs.

the only other incubus album i have is morning view and i absoluley love it. Its o relaxing and gets me in a good mood


i know. morning view is the s'hit.

[The_Flash!!!!]

I just went to go see incubus in concert and they friken rock out loud,
they are a great band you should go see them in concert.







did u no brandon plays guitar and mike plays piano in here in my room?

[shevi]

jo ppl, this record does it, specially with the new like i dunno 3 or 4 effects he adds, like that cry baby, or the swellen pickle, turbo geek (sick sad lil world) is a small show off of what this guys can do, I've heard him on many live performances and he really know's how to kick it with his effect consol. I just wonder why he'd changed those 2 paul reed smith hollowbodies and switch them to that fender jazzmaster, it gives a better sounding to some old songs like nowhere fast, but I think that if he had pushed those boundaries he did on this record with the prs's, it would've sound kinda better, well take a look at that song summer romance(antygravity), he played it with a prs, it would sound great with the jazz master but I dunno, if some one could find about that for me I would be very greatful

[Smackers]

It's a good album. I think it's Incubus's best so far. Morning View was a let down for me so this one is really several steps up from it.

[incubassman]

A very cool album and definatly a competitor for my money against Lostprophets - Start Something. Great review as well.

4/5


You wot? Start Something? A very disappointing album. Sorry guys I'm not bumping this review I am expressing my disappointment. How can anyone say A Crow Left of the Murder is a competitior for their money against Start Something? It's in a different league! Its like Kettering Town versus Arsenal. Are you crazy? Tut tut. Lets hope somebody finds some ears, a bit of taste and a bit of decency.

[joshuathegr8]

Great review!!!! I have only heard meglaomaniac tho i will check the others out thanx

[seveas]

one of the greatest rock albums in 2004, no doubt about it! my personal favourite songs are Priceless and Sick Sad Little World. but i feel it misses something...Dirk Lance! Ben Kenney is very good but there's no one like Dirk. he's my favourite bassist and i just love every bassline he made. anyone knows about any new Dirk project?
besides that, it's a great album. 4,5/5

[seveas]

thursdaythrice, buy S.C.I.E.N.C.E and Fungus Amongus (and Enjoy Incbus should you want half of Fungus re-done with Dj Kilmore)

A crow is pretty poor as a whole.

Indivisual tracks are good, but generally I think this is a pretty bland album.

Enjoy Incubus is with DJ Lyfe, not Kilmore :thumb:

[mike100]

I was slightly disappointed by the album. I think Einziger needs to get his awesome effects back. He used them when he played ACLOTM live here in Tokyo, Japan... but not on the album.

I heard he has switched to a Fender Jazzmaster from his PRS of previous albums, which I think has lessened his sound.

He sounds much more glassy and jazzy in ACLOTM where in albums like Morning View or Make Yourself his sound was much warmer, rougher and bluesy with an awesome crunch. I miss his sound from songs like Privilege and 11am.