Alyssa'a Review

 

I stood in the crowd waiting impatiently for My Chemical Romance. The moment they stepped foot on stage everything went crazy. MCR got the crowd going by encouraging everyone to sing, clap, and jump. This is definantly a band that loves their fans and loves to interact with the crowd. Before the start of songs they'd introduce them with short, but amusing, speeches. Another strong point was I didn't have to concentrate to hear what song they were playing. The guitar's stood out yet blended smoothly together and their singing was clear and loud. It wasn't just a bunch of noise with a few seconds of actual song here and there. My Chemical Romance will officially be on the 2005 Warped Tour so check them out and in the meantime pick up one of their CDs.

The sophomore album from New Jersey's My Chemical Romance is nothing short of brilliant. It's like Less Than Jake sans the ska meets AFI. A huge pop/punk/hardcore/rock mix with memorable hooks, upbeat darkly themed anthems, packed full of more energy than a Mars Bar and brimming with charisma.

It's the fact that the majority of these songs have all the vital ingredients to make them rock that puts them a league above other contenders. Written by guys that can truly call themselves songwriters and musicians that can execute the finely crafted masterpieces to perfection – and guitar solos too . . . wow how I've missed those!

Lyrically, it's not altogether cheery. Loosely based around a concept, taking in love, death and, er . . . the supernatural. But don't be put off, this is highly passionate and tracks like opener 'Helana' and 'I'm Not Okay (I Promise)' are instantly likable.

The album of the year? It's got to be a contender!