This is the album that blew the band up and it was the album that brought them into my life. Though I have to say, it hasn't aged as well as Vessel. This album is a product of it's time through and through. A lot of these tracks are much much better when heard live, but the studio production feels flat and the lyrics don't have the same level of charisma as Vessel does. The goofier moments here are far less charming when Tyler is also trying to come across as a badass at the same ... read more
What can I even say about Vessel that hasn't already been said? I'd go so far as to call it a classic, but there are those who might crucify me for doing so. It's not the most well-produced album, it's not the most well-written album, but damn if it isn't one of the most charismatic and unique albums I've ever heard. I won't be one of those people who claim that an album saved their life, as I don't believe in that sort of thing. But I will say that this ... read more
I don't know how best to rate this. There is a lot of very very poorly produced music and corny lyrics on display here, yet there's an allure that these guys have that just... sinks into you. And once that happens, your body will either reject it or embrace it. This album is like a test in that way. Having taken said test when I was quite young, I can never truly let go of the way this album made me feel as a teenager. Those feelings come to the surface whenever I hear songs like ... read more
My soft spot for this band is a huge bias that definitely has an effect on my ability to rate their music objectively. Good thing music is subjective. This is a really nice album. The imperfections are deeply charming.
The highs of this album are soaring and powerful, but unfortunately some of the lows are just too sluggish and average for me to rate this any higher. Crumbling Empire, Rein Me In, and People Watching are stand-out tracks. I also love the unique sounds of TV Dinner, but it's just a small taste of the variety I wish was more prevalent throughout the rest of the album. Overall, this is a positive experience. But I still think this guy can do more.
Edit: Upon further listens, I've ... read more
Beautiful, magnificent... and while it may not hit the highs of it's predecessor, I admire the new direction this band has taken. Different, but the same. I can see this album growing on me more and more with time.
This album introduced me to a whole new world of music that really changed my taste forever.
Near perfect project from one of the most intriguing bands working today.
Edit: okay yeah so this didn't age great