This album was the first of the Alkaline Trio albums which i now own. Comparing it with the other 3, i have to admit it doesn't reach they're high levels which they have now set. In spite of this, this is a good album, a bit better than average but not excellent. The album was 14 songs on it and this is the first album where Derek Grant sits and keeps the stalwarts of Matt and Dan in time. The album itself is laced with dark and macarbe images of suicide, blood, death in general and other sharp, metallic impliments use to hurt oneself or someone else.
1. This Could Be Love - The song starts well with a good solid intro. Its probably the best song I've heard about s******g yourself in a bed, being kidknapped before being tortured (much to the hatred of my english class however). It is a good song, one of the best off of the album. (8/10)
2. We've Had Enough - In my personal opinion, the best song on the album. One of my favourites by the trio. This song has great imagery with Matt singing about 'Van Goghing' ears. Top Song but lacks that extra something to get a 10. (9.5/10)
3. One Hundred Stories - Being a bassist, i usually prefer Dan's songs but from this album, it is one of his weakest. The song is average to good. It does pick up when Matt comes in towards the end on vocals. (7/10)
4. Continental - Good song, solid music, clever lyrics. (8/10)
5. All On Black - Much like the previous one in that it is a good sold song. (8/10)
6. Emma - I don't really get whats behind this song, is she thinking about suicide, or has she killed someone or is someone going to kill her? Nevertheless, a good song. (7.5/10)
7. Fatally Yours - Great song. Some of the lyrics in this song are the greatest i have ever heard by any band. The music is good as well. (8.5/10)
8. Every Thug Needs A Lady - The intro sets up the song well. Dan's singing compliments this song better than Matt's harshness normally would. One of the more tame Trio songs that they have done. Its a good song. (8/10)
9. Blue Carolina - Another good solid song on the album. (7.5/10)
10. Donner Party - Good song. The tune is good and suits the song and singing by Matt. (8/10)
11. If We never Go Inside - Like many other songs on the album, its a good solid song. (7.5/10)
12. Blue In The Face - This is the only acoustic song I've heard by the Trio or Matt. I like it and the images conjured up by it are good. Although Matt has a harsh voice, it does suit this song. Good song, one of the best songs on the album. (8.5/10)
These next 2 songs are on the version that is sold here in the UK.
13 - Dead End Road - Good song. Derek's drumming is the main focus of the song as Matt and Dan hardly play during the verses. The lyrics again are good. (8.5/10)
14 - Old School Reasons - Out of the 2 extra songs, this is the better one in my opinion. Although Dan usually has a softer voice compared to Matt, he sings the chorus in this fashion much like parts of 'This Is Getting Over You'. The switching between Matt and Dan is good. One of the best on the album. (9/10)
This is a good album. Lyrically, this is probably one of the best albums. Although, compared to other albums, some songs are not remember as some songs sound similar. If i could, i would give it 3 and 3/4 stars.
