Review Summary: Overall, i wouldn't recommend this album based solely on the fact that you liked A Fever You Can't Sweat Out, but i would recommend it if you like artsy, folky music. There is no pop punk like their label-mates, there is orchestral horns and strings and c
This album, for me at least, was initially a disappointment. I did not expect anything like this from the techno-pop-rock harlequin hot mess that is PATD. Actually i listened to the singles and didn't even like them... at first. Something came over me at Target one day that pressed me to buy this album, though. I am very glad that i did, because it is absolutely fantastic. Every time you listen to it the songs get better and better and you find more interesting meanings with each listen. Anyways, here is the song breakdown.
We're So Starving 3/5- the music is good, but the lyrics are a little bit lackluster. its just kind of corny how they just come out and say "we were busy writing songs for you" and i felt like they were trying too hard to be "artsy"
Nine in The Afternoon 3.5/5- This song is pretty fun to listen to and sing along to. It has some interesting time changes and cutoff measures, showing a side of maturity already. The horns in the chorus are a nice touch, and i like the generally interesting assortment of sounds and instruments playing fills here and there.
She's A Handsome Woman 5/5- One of my favourite songs on the album. The guitar is so... so... classic sounding- not expected from a band on the Fueled By Ramen label. I love the song structure in the verse and the catchiness of the chorus. The lyrics, also, are top notch.
Do You Know What I'm Seeing 5/5- Another Favourite of mine! These are some of the best lyrics on the album. It is an incredibly soothing experience listening to this song. The chorus sounds like a happy go lucky day strolling down the streets of an old west town, followed by the almost apocalyptic sound of the pre-verse.
That Green Gentleman 4/5- This song is very happy. The drums control the mood in this song, changing the speed from passage to passage. It is also pretty. accessible. so if you havent heard the album check this one out.
I Have Friends In Holy Spaces 4.5/5- This song was initially my favourite, but since then it hasn't grown on me quite like some of the others. It is incredibly interesting that the instruments in this song consist of a ukulele, a clarinet, and a trumpet. What other band does that these days?? Keeping it interesting.
Northern Downpour 2/5- The only monotonous song on the album. Not a fan of the instrumentals on this album, but the vocals are still pretty good. The lyrics are, i hate to say it, trying to hard.
When The Day Met The Night 5/5- Fantastic songwriting! The intro/buildup is like sun piercing the clouds on the best day of your life. This song makes you feel nothing but relaxed and happy. The lyrics aren't even that deep, but simply "summer, all was golden in the sky"
Pas De Chavel 4.5/5- another song that was initially one of my favorites, but has slowly been outshined. It is still a great song, though. I have no idea what it's about, but its unique and it is a breath of fresh air.
The Piano Knows Someting I Don't Know 5/5- This one took me the longest to warm up to, mostly because of the avant-garde introduction, but has grown to be one of my absolute favorites. The way this song changes paces is very fun to listen to. The song contains elements here and there that make it very entertaining.
Behind the Sea 4/5- I believe their guitarist sings on this song. I appreciate the whole every member should sing thing, but brandon is really of no use as anything else besides an outstanding vocalist. The song overall is calm and relaxing, but not exempt from being skipped if i'm not in the mood to hear it.
Folkin Around 3/5- Why the hooplah is this song on here? It doesn't really fit, but i guess they've blended every other genre ever in this album already, so why not country, eh? It is worthy of a listen most spins only because it is short and sweet. no breakdown, no interlude, no solo, just verse chorus verse chorus. FIN
She Had The World 5/5- This is possibly the most inaccessible song on the album, but it is my favourite. It has, without question, the best lyrics on the album. The vocals are so upbeat, but calm. "who could love me i am out of my mind, throwing a line out to sea, to see if i can't catch a dream" I love et..
From A Mountain in the Middle of The Cabins 4.5/5- Another slightly catchy, incredibly well written, interesting, happiness provoking number. It really feels like an ending song, i would've put this last.
Mad As Rabbits 5/5- I really love this song, because it feels like the closing credits to a great movie. It has a fast paced beat and, again, a plethora of interesting instrumentals.