Motion City Soundtrack

Marching in with hype and top-level producers, Motion City Soundtrack is clearly looking to make a statement within the music industry, that pop punk/rock is not dead, but it still lives on. With Fountains of Wayne frontman Adam Schlesinger and The Cars' Ric Ocasek in tow, they look to conquer a kingdom somewhere. Strangely enough, it may be the tools that make this sculpture have some of its most glaring flaws.

Probably the most noticeable lowlight of the album is "The Conversation," a standard piano ballad that comes off more insincere than it does emotional. Other than that, the band produces an album full of strong, but not necessarily memorable tracks. Case in point: "Broken Heart." And even the strongest tracks suffer from attributes I attribute to the producers. The back-half of "Hello Helicopter" is a good example, as it turns from an original and emotional track to too much of a pop rock emo fest.

And yes, the album does minorly earn it's language warning sticker. They throw around a few S-words, a F-word or two, but the strange thing is that it seems like the band is just throwing them around just to either sound cool, or be more mature. Let's just say, I could have done without them, but they neither hinder nor help the album to a great degree.

Pop punk highlights include the fun "This Is For Real," whose music video is a must-see. "Can't Finish What You Started," and "Where I Belong" also finish what they set out to do. In terms of highlights, the band puts probably puts out their best and/or second-best in the one-two punch of the quirky "Antonia," and "Even If It Kills Me," which is a strong set, finding its place in the back-half of the song. However, "Antonia" does lose a little momentum everytime the song leaves its verses.

Overall, Motion City Soundtrack lives up the hype and produces a strong set of songs, which wind up to be the band's best, by far. They come up with some catchy and fun pop punk/rock, adding a sense of quirk to the album. However, aside from the strong but unmemorable songs, the band makes little mistakes that take away from songs.

Looking to the credits however, a pattern emerges. Its impressive duel-producers seem to be the cause of the problem. While Ocasek is consistent in the album, Schlesinger is largely inconsistent, of course specializing in the pop punk songs, but faltering elsewhere. Little mistakes hinder the album, but if you're looking for a fun pop punk/rock album with variety and quirk, then this is the CD for you.

This disc is not quite up to par with the instantly addictive melodies of "I Am the Movie" or "Commit This to Memory." However, there are a few catchy tracks such as "Fell In Love Without You" and "This Is For Real."

"Even If It Kills Me" explores more emotional subject matter than past attempts. Motion City Soundtrack lovers will not be disappointed and I find myself listening to it on repeat while driving in my car. Overall a solid buy. After a few times through it, you'll be humming along.

As a huge mcs fan, i had big expectations for the 3rd album i bought. This newest album has some standout tracks and singles but is just not quite a steady-through hit machine like the other 2 previous albums. I would recommend those but as for this, it's hard to fall as in love with. Maybe subsequent listenings will bring out a new love for it. They changed their sound and may be in a different key this time around.

I sought out Motion City Soundtrack last year looking for another Fall Out Boy or Plain White T's (i.e., outstanding punk-pop). Sadly, their 2005 release Commit This to Memory was, well, less than memorable. Yes, there were hooks, but they wore on me - as did Justin Pierre's persistently meandering vocals.

After reading some optimistic reviews of Even If It Kills Me, I decided to give MCS another go. The result was a roller-coaster ride between promising and sub-par - sometimes within the same song. (Reference the troublesome verses and rousing choruses on It Had to Be You.) The result is a decent record, but once again not the all-around stellar punk-pop for which I'd hoped. Maybe each MCS album will take a step in the same direction and by 2011 we'll have something truly great.

-Brandon

First off, I don't get the 4 star rating for this cd. Sure it's not as fun to jam to as thier first two cd's (which are still in constant rotation on my ipod) I must admit this is my favorite of their albums. If you ever teared up while listening to "Hold me Down" This album is for you.

Must Hear Tracks:

The Conversation
Hello Helicopter
Last Night
It had to be you

Great music.

FYI, my mac computer (iMac running Leopard, purchased Nov'07) had a real problem ejecting this cd. (I did successfully add the music to iTunes). There is some video file on the disc that confused the computer. I've imported over a thousand music cd's into this computer, this is the first one that had such a problem.

I ended up needing to power off the mac, and then power back on while holding the eject button. CD popped out.

Great music, though.

was recommended to me by roommate but i did not enjoy this. sounds too emo i think.

This album is the way Motion City is supposed to sound. it's a perfect display of their Minnesota emo-scene influence. Their best album by far. If you have the other albums and not this one, you must get it!!!

How often do you see rock albums that have all stars? I don't mean my own rating, but at the time I am writing this MCS I am the Movie has a perfect review, and there's some meaning to that.
MCS is a totally new sound, creativity, and engaging style that is FINALLY breathing some new life into rock bands. Rock bands are a dime a dozen, and every one of them thinks they have what it takes- but the problem is they all sound the same, and most are not pushing forward with a new sound,but copycating all the old bands we love. This CD is a totally new experience and fun, and in the tradition of old rock with a new flair....Wait can you say the word flair in a rock album review? This CD has something that most everyone will like. Very good quality music, songs, and sound.

Motion City soundtrack is a band that never fails to impress me, no matter how many times I hear each song. They get better with each listen, rather than becoming tired and overdone. I would reccomend this cd to almost anyone. The album doesnt have abad song on it.

"Cambridge"- 7/10- Good first track, but not perfect. Catchy without being too poppy, and with a slight edge.

"Shiver"- 10/10- Amazing song. Definately in my top 3 MCS songs of all time. Once again catchy without being too poppy, and it has a great chorus and interesting lyrics.

"The Future Freaks Me Out"- 9/10- This song is the big hit. Yes it is catchy and an interesting song as well, but there are better songs on the disc. But make no mistake, this is still a very good song.

"Indoor Living"- 9/10- Good song, slow intro that builds into a great chorus. This song keeps the vibe going, and is one of the better tracks.

"My Favorite Accident"- 10/10- Another Great song. Catchy, fast, intriguing lyrics, and a great sing a long chorus.

"Perfect Teeth"- 10/10- The great songs keep coming with this track. Perfect soundtrack to highschool life in general, a fun song with good drums.

"Boombox Generation"- 9/10- Great song- this is a perfect example of what MCS is- Pop-punk with a slight edge, some of which was lost after this album (not to say 'Commite...' isnt a great album, just different).

"Dont Call it a Comeback"- 7/10- a Faster song, good intro, but overall not one of my favs on the cd. Slightly heavier than the rest. Still a well done song.

"Modern Chemistry"- 8/10- Good song, more emotional than the others. But not as good as...

"Capital H"- 10/10- What a great song. What can be said? Some songs are just amazing. Great lyrics, nice music, good drums(as always), and one of the best sing-a-long choruses they have ever achieved.

"Red Dress"- 8/10- Good song. Quick, catchy, and a fun. Another nice effort by MCS.

"Mary Without Sound"- 9/10- Another somewhat edgy song. Faster intro. Emotional, and well executed, this song works well towards the end of the record.

"Autographs and Apologies"- 8/10- Good pre-closer song, slow and well written, this song is not one of my favorites, but is still good.

"A-Ok"- 9/10- A risky closer, this song works. Although "Autographs and Apoligies" seems a more obvious choice for the closer, this song sounds similar to the rest of the record, but has a tone of finality to it, partly aided by the lyrics, and partly by the music, which conveys a bitter attitude towards the subject.

Overall just a superb record. Slightly edgier than the follow up, but I still have a hard time choosing a favorite. I would reccomend both cds. MCS is simply an amazing band.

-peace

I think that this cd is better than their first one I recommend this to everyone

I stumbled upon MCS music on a crappy interenet site, and could not believe my ears. Thier music is great! You totally get into the songs, and sing along, and want to dance! Every song on here is great- their best album so far. I measure rock bands based on creativity and sound and they have it. They have a very different sound, that they stretch and flex into different songs, so that every song on the CD is on you want to listen to, and it does not get tired and old. I promise you'll love this one.

If you had told me that there was an album able to surpass "I am the movie" I wouldn't have believed you, until I listened to "Commit this to Memory". This is truly a one of a kind CD and you will be able to listen to it for hours on end.

Ah, this is a great album. Very feel-good. Contains some of the most rampant catchiness allowed to run around on a disc. Frontman Justin Pierre's voice reminds me of Cedric Bixler on large, large amounts of barbibtuates. His is an extremely pleasant singing voice.

Every track is very good in its own right, but the ones that I really look forward to are "Everything is Alright (2)," "When You're Around (3)," "Feel Like Rain (5)," "Time Turns Fragile (7)," "Let's Get F'd Up And Die (8)," "Together We'll Ring In the New Year," "Hangman" and "Hold Me Down" (Tracks 10,11 and 12). But I always listen to the album the whole way through. Skipping songs are for ex-heroin addicts.

So, even if you hate emo and the culture inherent, buy/burn/download this album and give it at least three or four spins. You'll be hooked. Then listen a few more times and tell me it doesn't put you into a good mood.

This is one of my all time top 10 cds, along with 'I am the Movie'. Motion City Soundtrack is one of the best bands out there, and i think everyone should at least give them a fair chance.

"Attractive Today"- 8/10- Great first song; fast, catchy, and quick. It is short and sweet, giving th listener a taste of MCS, but leaving them wanting more.

"Everything Is Alright"- 7/10- One of the hit singles. Very catchy, cool lyrics, good music. This isnt my favorite on the cd, but it is still very good.

"When You're Around"- 10/10- Still possibly my favorite, this song holds a special place in my heart, seeing as it was the first song by MCS i heard. Without this song, I might not have ever heard anymore MCS. This song is catchy and melodic, yet it still retains it's edge.

"Resolution"- 9/10- This song is a little bit slower, and sets a slightly tone than many MCS songs, but noetheless still great. Somewhat Death Cab For Cutie-esque.

"Feel Like Rain"- 8/10- This song is another good one. A semi-downer sound is still present, but it remains fun and catchy still.

"Make Out Kids"- 10/10- Fast, Catchy, and Fun, this song gets into your head and doesnt leave. The lyrics, like most MCS, arent that deep, but still sound amazing in the song. I saw this live, and have gained a whole new respect for it. One of my favs on the cd.

"Time Turned Fragile"- 9/10- For some reason, this song just reminds me of going through the halls in between class. And not in a bad way. I dont know why but this song makes me feel better about the repetitious daily cycle.

"L.G. Fuad"- 9/10- This song is great, it is slow and steady, with good lyrics, a nice changeup for the cd.

"Better Open the Door"- 10/10- Catchy, great chorus, equally good verse, overall just a great song.

"Together We'll Ring in the New Year"- 9/10- Great. Softest, slowest song on the cd, but still one of my favs. This is such a good song, and Justin's vocals are the real treasure in this song. Great acoustic song.

"Hangman"- 9/10- This song picks up the pace a little bit after the former track. Catchy and well executed, this fits perfectly towards the end of the album. Despite one minor out of place spot, Justin's vocals are well done on this song.

"Hold Me Down"- 8/10- A well done closer, this song seems to totally encompass the style of this album as a whole. In my oppinion, this is a good choice for a closer; not the best song on the cd, and not the catchiest, but the one that seems to tie the record together, leaving listeners with the satisfied feeling that only a good record can leave.

And as a side note, MCS is the best live band I have ever seen in terms of performance. The singer actually sounds even better live, adding in more personal style and flare, and nothing is lost in the music. Plus, their energy level is incredibly high, without losing any of their talent in favor of showmanship, unlike so many other bands out their.

-peace

Motion City Soundtrack is my favorite band, and this is my second favorite album, next to I am the Movie. Every song is a masterpiece, IMHO. Give them a listen!

I've been listening to MCS since "I am the movie" was released and have been to see them in concert. The deluxe dvd/cd of "Commit this to Memory" was a definite buy for me, if only for their awesome music videos on the DVD. Their upbeat, catchy, sing-along songs (with the occasional down-tempos) brighten my day any time I'm down, and often times just make me laugh (See: LGFUAD)
Motion City Soundtrack is going to be around for long time.

I wasn't sure about this band (especially after hearing "Everything Is Alright" one too many times), but I love this CD!! The singing is great. Sometimes it's high, and sometimes it's more pop-punk-ish--it's a unique mix (the CD doesn't feel like the same old thing by another band)--and the songs are easy to like right away, even though they're still very different from each other. I'd rate this CD 4 & 1/2 stars, but because the DVD is so complete (it has a lot of live performances, interviews with the band, other footage, and even an appearance by Mark Hoppus from Plus 44...but especially live performances; the DVD was much more than I had expected!), I'll give it 5 stars. It's hard to rate CDs, but if you like any of their songs, I'd recommend looking into this! All I liked was "Hangman" and one of the other ones before buying it, but now I like almost every song on the CD, and even some of the songs that the DVD shows live from their older CD.

When I got my hands on this piece of work I had only heard "Everything is Alright". Justin Pierre's unique lyrical style and the band's fun spin of the pop-punk genre sueded me to get the cd. I was not at all disappointed. All of the songs are easy to relate to and touch on a high spectrum of emotions from slower, more serious songs like "Hold Me Down" to fast paced and humorous songs like "L.G. Faud". All songs include clever metaphors and rhyme schemes that leave you wondering how he comes up with this stuff. Overall it is a very lyrically driven, very high energy album that I can listen to all the way through without getting bored. Mellow at times, but never bored.

I love this cd. Justin's voice is pleasent to hear and matches the music. There are also appearences of Patrick(from Fall Out Boy) and Mark(from Blink 182, who also produced the record.) Great cd, I reccomend you get it.

This album is really great. It is supposed to show how they can still play unplugged.

Matchbook Romance does a great job on switching to acoustic. In Transit (for you) starts off slow and switches to a louder sound one by one.
With the song Playing for Keeps(Acoustic) they show how they can change it up a little bit. They show how dynamic they could be with different styles

Motion city soundtrack still has a little of punk in their hand. They our acoustic, but not really. They really on vocals to keep them up. The guitar parts are really messy.

Matchbook Romance really took the part on this one. But overall these are too good bands, and this album is really good, so go check it out

the tracks from Matchbook Romance rub me the wrong way. I don't dislike MR, I don't have their album but I've heard and gotten some amount of enjoyment out of "Promise" and another song whose name escapes me at the time. Unlike the average emo-ish band, they don't translate very well into unplugged territory. I give their effort a 1/5.

On the other hand Motion City Soundtrack brings their usual energy to the table, even without the aid of their usual hyperactive moog-lines. "When 'You're' Around is one of their best songs to date, even unplugged. Luckily the plugged in version is on their upcoming album as well (I heard them play it live, prepare to be blown away). "Sunday Warning" isn't as mind-blowingly awesome, but its still a great song and showcases their amazing lyrical ability. I give their half of this album a 5/5.

I think Epitaph was slightly misguided to place these bands together, because even if MR's tracks had been better, these bands' styles don't mesh well.

Matchbook Romance's In Transit (For You) is a horrible opening to the ep. They get a horrible sound out of the guitar. It sounds like a really cheap nasty instrument. The chords they play are as standard as chords get, no depth of harmony whatsoever, the chord changes add even more lameness into the mix and the guys voice doesn't sound good either. Their other song, Playing For Keeps, is better, but still not good. It sounds a bit like Dashboard Confessional's weaker songs. Motion City Soundtrack's contribution is a bit better. When You're Around is a nice song, but the guy's voice really isn't suited to this kind of music. Their other track, Sunday Warning, is the best on the ep. It reminds me a whole lot of Christie Front Drive, which is awesome, especially in the vocals, which feel a lot more in place on this song. This is a really great song, their best ever, and I hope their next release has some more like it. They kinda cheat on the "acoustic" thing though. Both their songs are enhanced by some electric guitar additions.

matchbook romance ruins it...that guy CANNOT sing acoustically (???)...i mean i like MBR but they need not ever do this again....both motion city soundtrack songs are amazing and worth the 6$ ...plus the artwork is awesome and so is the actual cd (a clear cd) HA!

First of all Motion City Soundtrack ROCKS!!! and so does Matchbook Romance. This album is showing the new stuff from motion city soundtrack, which there NEW album is being created....
In conlusion motion city soundtrack is coming out with a new album soon and this shows some of there new stuff!

Great music.

FYI, my mac computer (iMac running Leopard, purchased Nov'07) had a real problem ejecting this cd. (I did successfully add the music to iTunes). There is some video file on the disc that confused the computer. I've imported over a thousand music cd's into this computer, this is the first one that had such a problem.

I ended up needing to power off the mac, and then power back on while holding the eject button. CD popped out.

Great music, though.

was recommended to me by roommate but i did not enjoy this. sounds too emo i think.

This album is the way Motion City is supposed to sound. it's a perfect display of their Minnesota emo-scene influence. Their best album by far. If you have the other albums and not this one, you must get it!!!

How often do you see rock albums that have all stars? I don't mean my own rating, but at the time I am writing this MCS I am the Movie has a perfect review, and there's some meaning to that.
MCS is a totally new sound, creativity, and engaging style that is FINALLY breathing some new life into rock bands. Rock bands are a dime a dozen, and every one of them thinks they have what it takes- but the problem is they all sound the same, and most are not pushing forward with a new sound,but copycating all the old bands we love. This CD is a totally new experience and fun, and in the tradition of old rock with a new flair....Wait can you say the word flair in a rock album review? This CD has something that most everyone will like. Very good quality music, songs, and sound.

Motion City soundtrack is a band that never fails to impress me, no matter how many times I hear each song. They get better with each listen, rather than becoming tired and overdone. I would reccomend this cd to almost anyone. The album doesnt have abad song on it.

"Cambridge"- 7/10- Good first track, but not perfect. Catchy without being too poppy, and with a slight edge.

"Shiver"- 10/10- Amazing song. Definately in my top 3 MCS songs of all time. Once again catchy without being too poppy, and it has a great chorus and interesting lyrics.

"The Future Freaks Me Out"- 9/10- This song is the big hit. Yes it is catchy and an interesting song as well, but there are better songs on the disc. But make no mistake, this is still a very good song.

"Indoor Living"- 9/10- Good song, slow intro that builds into a great chorus. This song keeps the vibe going, and is one of the better tracks.

"My Favorite Accident"- 10/10- Another Great song. Catchy, fast, intriguing lyrics, and a great sing a long chorus.

"Perfect Teeth"- 10/10- The great songs keep coming with this track. Perfect soundtrack to highschool life in general, a fun song with good drums.

"Boombox Generation"- 9/10- Great song- this is a perfect example of what MCS is- Pop-punk with a slight edge, some of which was lost after this album (not to say 'Commite...' isnt a great album, just different).

"Dont Call it a Comeback"- 7/10- a Faster song, good intro, but overall not one of my favs on the cd. Slightly heavier than the rest. Still a well done song.

"Modern Chemistry"- 8/10- Good song, more emotional than the others. But not as good as...

"Capital H"- 10/10- What a great song. What can be said? Some songs are just amazing. Great lyrics, nice music, good drums(as always), and one of the best sing-a-long choruses they have ever achieved.

"Red Dress"- 8/10- Good song. Quick, catchy, and a fun. Another nice effort by MCS.

"Mary Without Sound"- 9/10- Another somewhat edgy song. Faster intro. Emotional, and well executed, this song works well towards the end of the record.

"Autographs and Apologies"- 8/10- Good pre-closer song, slow and well written, this song is not one of my favorites, but is still good.

"A-Ok"- 9/10- A risky closer, this song works. Although "Autographs and Apoligies" seems a more obvious choice for the closer, this song sounds similar to the rest of the record, but has a tone of finality to it, partly aided by the lyrics, and partly by the music, which conveys a bitter attitude towards the subject.

Overall just a superb record. Slightly edgier than the follow up, but I still have a hard time choosing a favorite. I would reccomend both cds. MCS is simply an amazing band.

-peace