An album full of self-reflection, Bayside proves to be very catchy. The only thing is, the catchiness isn’t really in any guitar hooks or anything like that, the catchiness stems from the fact that everyone who has any feelings can relate to the lyrics and themes on the entire album. We’ve all had times where we feel like we are at an all time low, Bayside lets you know that they’ve been there too and there’s an upside. With lyrics so incredible that listening and identifying with them makes the hair on your arm stand, Bayside proves that they are different and above most of the garbage that is being pushed on the radio.
Don’t worry; this isn’t an “emo” album. This is an album that addresses things that plague the mind. “They Looked like Strong Hands” has become an anthem to anyone who is in a band and pushing to be accepted by the music community. It outlines the fact for many bands that the music business is a “make it or break it” business, best illustrated by the lyrics, “I’m questioning if this whole thing was worth it, to die poor and all alone.”
As for the relationship aspect, there are many songs that make you lift your head up from your desk and clear the empty bottles off of it. “Existing in a Crisis (Evelyn)” is my favorite ballad on the album as of right now. Listen to it and see what I mean. There’s so much going on in this album but its all on the same page. This album is a masterpiece from start to end, so do yourself a favor and pick it up as soon as possible.
release date: Tuesday, August 23, 2005
