Triple Crown [Explicit Lyrics]

Editorial Reviews
From URB Magazine
(Babygrande/Koch) Once upon a time, Philadelphia's Mountain Brothers were affiliated with a major label. As the story goes, the corporate suits wanted the trio to foreground its Asian heritage and thus turn itself into a modern-day novelty act. To their credit, Chops, Styles Infinite and Peril-L squashed that idea, resulting in the dissolution of the deal. Triple Crown is the sound of three men asserting their gritty East Coast roots, regardless of skin color. On "Yes Yes," Styles traces his love affair with hip-hop, telling us that "Like Common I used to love her, but then we spent some time apart." Lucky for fans of rugged indie fare, the MBs are back in the game, calling out the competition for another round of combat. Beatwise, Triple Crown treads a well-worn landscape of jazz loops, synth stabs and mad scratches, an appropriately grim foundation for the MBs' harsh battle floetry. Put 'em up.

Martin Turenne

Triple Crown,The Mountain Brothers,Babygrande,Pop,Rap,Rap & Hip-Hop,Underground Rap

Triple Crown [Explicit Lyrics]

Tracks:

Swallow People Whole
Oubliette (Disappear)
Crop And The Pest, The
Salesman, The Husband, The Lover, The
Smoke And Mirrors
Realization Of The Ear, A
Saturnus
Wanderers
Stay Small
Music Of The Spheres
Heir Of Empty Breath, The
Pale Blue Dot

Album Description

Their second studio album is their most altruistic, enthralling, and skillful work to date. It's built up of synergetic instrumental measures and intense lyrics that flow brilliantly, transcending one song to the next. Having been well-received on tours alongside Circa Survive, Panic! At The Disco, and 30 Seconds To Mars, with appearances on Taste Of Chaos, the Warped Tour, and MTV's $2 Bill Tour, this band is not your typical flash in the pan. Produced by Matt Squire (Panic! At The Disco, Boys Like Girls).

Album Description

Customer Reviews:

ABSOLUTELY COMPELLING.......2007-08-07

This is the sophomore album from The Receiving End of Sirens, and it is one of the best albums I've heard in a while. Like Cave In, these guys know how to perfectly balance intensity and ambience, and also incorporate outer space themes into the music. Musically, much of this album is inspired by Johannes Kepler's work on the laws of planetary motion - the opening lead on "Saturnus" is their vision of what the orbits of Saturn's rings would sound like, while two of the more ambient tracks, "A Realization of the Ear" and "Music of the Sphere," continue on the space theme. These guys have improved vocally as well via addition by subtraction: after the departure of vocalist/guitarist Casey prior to recording the album, the band now has only 2 vocalists - bassist Bredan and guitarist Alex - rather than 3, resulting in much more clarity in the vocals. They continue their use of literary allusions on this album as well, with much of the lyrics to several songs inspired by the works of C.S. Lewis (his religious works, not the Chronicles of Narnia). There are several thematic layers to the album, from the sound of planetary motion, to the relationships between earth and mankind, father and son, and more. These guys write some great music, and I hope they stick around for a long time and continue carrying the space-rock banner.

For those who are interested, check out www.theearthsingsmifami.com/behindtherecord - there is a 30 second sound clip of each song on the album, along with a little blurb by each band member explaining how they wrote each of the songs.

Average customer rating:

Fantastic album - Superb live performers
Could be the album of 2006. Maybe.
As Tall As Lions - Self Titled
Awesome record
Indie gold

As Tall as Lions
As Tall as Lions
Manufacturer: Triple Crown
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000GFRDY0
Release Date: 2006-08-08

Tracks:

Stab City
Summer
A Break A Pause
Love Love Love (Love Love)
Ghosts Of York
Milk and Honey
Be Here Now
Kickin' Myself
Mariah
Maybe I'm Just Tired

Album Description

This band redefines perceptions of Long Island's music scene with their British influenced contemporary indie rock sound. On their sophomore release, they harness the creativity of 70's album rock, the lush tones of ambient pop, and the subtle passion of groups such as The Smiths from the late '80s. Their music can easily be considered interpretive and progressive, yet it by no means alienates the fan base they've acquired through sharing bills with such acts as Mae, Acceptance, June, The Spill Canvas, The Receiving End Of Sirens, Copeland, and Coheed & Cambria.

Customer Reviews:

Fantastic album - Superb live performers.......2007-07-09

I'm lucky enough to live in Austin, TX, aka The Live Music Capital of the World, hence I get to see lots of live musical performances. I saw this band perform recently and was truly impressed. WOW! Fell in love with this band. You must see them if you can, but if not, at least get the cd.

Could be the album of 2006. Maybe........2007-02-14

As Tall As Lions has possibly created the album of 2006 with the best mix of amazing vocals and fluid, beautiful composition. Is it the best album of all time? No, no album truly deserves such a rating nor ever should obtain it.

This is art at its finest. Well orchestrated lyrics and song structure make this selftitled album standout amongst many other bands of the same genre. This album completely caught me by surprise. The only problem is, they may struggle trying to top this when working on their next full-length.

As Tall As Lions - Self Titled.......2006-12-29

Pitting the name of your band against the king of the jungle is daring, an inevitable open door for the reviewers to lambaste you.

Unless it's justified.

But As Tall As Lions, an indie band from Long Island, NY leaves nothing to chance with their second album, which shares the same name as the band.

And after hearing this, in the not so grand scale of today's music, this band should be taller than the majority of the faux lions out there.

Sure, a lot of their songs are built around love--be it lost, found, or never really there to begin with--and the bulk of their lyrics could have come from a melancholy teenager's notebook, and because of that some might pigeonhole them as emo, a distinction which is not only unfair, but nowadays a kiss of death. But nothing ever feels woe is me, even when it is. The melodies are ambient, at times atmospheric, even reminiscent of some Sigur Ros (though with words that you can actually understand). And As Tall As Lions sounds similar enough to Keane to mention it; but they're so much better, their sound deeper, and Daniel Nigro twice the singer.

Above everything the album is honest.

Beyond that it's littered with homerun after homerun. The opening track "Stab City" sets the ebb and flow of what's to follow, from "Song For Luna", a lovely ditty sounding every bit like a soundtrack to any wannabe protagonist who's wandered aimlessly through the mental streets of time gone by, to the closer "Maybe I'm Just Tired", a heartbreaking confessional where Nigro sings, "But I know I'm not good enough for you" like he means it.

From top to bottom there aren't anything even resembling fillers.

And somewhere in the middle of the album, from "Ghosts of York", to "Milk and Honey", to "I'm Kicking Myself" they manage a few masterpieces.

The album is outstanding, easily one of the best of 2006.

And though there aren't any streamers, fireworks, or larger than life billboards to promote its release, make no mistake this is As Tall As Lion's coming out party.

For more reviews check out [...]

Awesome record.......2006-10-18

I see all the comparisons to Coldplay, but this group's a lot ore similar to The Police then anything COldplay or The Smiths have done. The lead singer's voice is definitely like Sting's, and they even did a Police cover when I saw them live.

Excellent album, guys. Check it out.

Indie gold.......2006-09-17

I agree with the reviewer below, this album is captivating. I got hooked after seeming them on their recent tour with Brazil (another great underrated band). ATAL's sound is very melodic, emotional, and
refined. I agree that this is a less poppier coldplay, a less morose Jeff Buckley. This is a great indie album, by far the best of the year so far in my opinion.

Average customer rating:

Too brilliant for the Warped Tour crowd
Best CD Ever
pinnacle of everything that is modern "emo"
Stands out and above the emo label bestowed upon it...
For fans of Jimmy Eat World

Between the Heart and the Synapse
The Receiving End of Sirens
Manufacturer: Triple Crown
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Things Aren't So Beautiful Now
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Saosin
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ASIN: B0007YMVE2
Release Date: 2005-04-26

Tracks:

Prologue
Planning A Prison Break
The Rival Cycle
The Evidence
The War Of All Against All
...Then I Defy You, Stars
Intermission
This Armistice
Broadcast Quality
Flee The Factory
Dead Men Tell No Tales
Venona
Epilogue

Album Description

Electronically enhanced hard rockin' in the vein of Hot Rod Circuit meets The Refused. Their unique sound, sharpened by producer Matt Squire (Northstar, Thrice), recreates the boundaries of the genre. They have a hearty appetite for touring and a face-melting live show.

Customer Reviews:

Too brilliant for the Warped Tour crowd.......2007-03-06

Although I would hate to call another reviewer an "idiot", I agree that suggesting that this album is "emo", "punk", or sounds anything like/offers anything remotely similar to bands like Taking Back Sunday, New Found Glory, and Saves the Day...is ignorant.

This is not your average Warped Tour fare. This album is a brilliant work of art, expertly crafted by five extremely talented musicians with a level of genius you rarely find in a single member of any band, much less in FIVE members of ONE band. Seriously, TREOS is that good. And this is just the first record...

To call this album, "emo" is selling it way short. "Epicore" (epic core) or "Litcore" (literary core) would be much more appropriate. The thematic elements of this album borrow from everything from the works of Thomas Hobbes to Romeo & Juliet, with even shades of Marxist literature at points (see "Flee the Factory"). And the lyrics are like old romantic poetry. "Where art thou? I've dressed up this canvas skin; painted something colorful just for you" (Then I Defy You, Stars) is just one example of the beautiful, romantic lyrical expression to be found on this epic disc.

Musically, the three vocalists jump in and fade out in a nearly seamless, dreamy arrangement--almost like multiple thoughts jumping around inside your head (give it a shot with earphones, just once). The instrumental arrangements do the same thing, supporting the lyrical swings, and finding different ways to progress an energetic album that doesn't stop or let down for a moment (save the occasional slow segue such as that found at the end of "The War of All Against All").

The production is what floors me, though. On no other album will you find themes and lyrics so brilliantly tying an album together--giving it a coherent wholeness. Almost every song on the album has a counter-piece where lyrics, themes, and musical arrangements will blend into one another. "The Evidence" and "Broadcast Quality" for example are tied together by the line "Her fingers, like spiders, spun a web my body couldn't shed" while "Then I Defy You Stars" and "Venona" are paired by the usage of Romeo as a sort of counterpoint for the songs ("Do you like what you see?...Oh, Romeo"). For this reason, I find it almost impossible to put this album in just to listen to one song. I play it for either the first half (before 'Intermission') or the second half (post 'Intermission'). Oh yeah, and Anthony Green does high-note assistance on "Flee the Factory". Balls. To. The. Wall (since I've been way too formal).

So, every song on the album is phenomenal and has been my favorite song at one time or another. The weakest is probably "Planning a Prison Break" or "Dead Men Tell No Tales" although the former serves as a good, more-mainstream-sounding track for hooking newcomers to the band. My favorites are 'The War of All Against All', "Broadcast Quality", "Then I Defy You Stars", and "Venona".

This is the most amazing album conceptually I may have ever heard. All other albums are just music, for what it's worth. This is a movement. Hopefully Casey's departure won't keep "The Earth Sings Mi Fa Mi" from being another revelation. After seeing them live a couple of weeks ago, though, I'm far from worried.

Best CD Ever.......2006-10-18

They are unlike any other band. Don't even worry about what 'genre' they fall into. The Receiving End of Sirens rocks.

pinnacle of everything that is modern "emo".......2006-09-27

the pinnacle of everything that is modern "emo", although i know that tag is misleading and incorrect (see: coheed, funeral for a friend, probably a dozen bands on mtv2, etc). soaring, strong melodies over top of slick drumming (with occassional aid of electronics) and sweet guitar licks. the band is clearly influenced by radiohead and genesis as much as they are fugazi and quicksand. very unique outing that serves both as a milestone of whatever scene some might lump them in and as the album that would make people shake the predominant view that all "emo" is uninspired, boring, and melodramatic.

Stands out and above the emo label bestowed upon it..........2006-09-18

These days, being emo is what's in but knowing emo is unfound. There are different styles of music that could all be associated with the emo label, and it could be said that emo's best days are behind them as bands try to emulate a sound that has grown tired and lacking fresh ideas.

The Receiving End of Sirens is a band that is thrown into today's mix, but they have the most diverse, powerful, and emotional sound out there. They combine elements of progressive, hardcore, punk, and metal to create something so involving and compelling that it's unlike anything considered emo nowadays. To rate this album song by song will be a disservice to the progression the listener experiences. This is not an album with filler or no direction. It is clear yet complex, optimistic while tormented, and imagined despite the reality.

It's quite amazing how a band who quietly opened a show for Saves the Day in Philadelphia would turn out to be the most inventive band we've seen from the genre in years. I don't know how they'll follow up this album but I'll be intrigued to find out. If you haven't already listened to them, you are definitely missing out on the most sensational debut I heard in 2005. Pick up Between the Heart and the Synapse and you will definitely not regret it.

For fans of Jimmy Eat World.......2006-08-11

Call it what you will... Emo/Alt/Indie Rock with heavy guitar? I don't know what the kids are calling it these days, but whatever it is, it's good. However, I do have that nagging feeling at the back of my head that makes me feel like TREOS are just copying what Jimmy Eat World successfully accomplished with "Clarity" and "Static Prevails" before they sold their souls to the Pop-Machine on "Bleed American" and then made their unimpressive effort "Futures" (what I call "The Lullabye" album). This is a good replacement for Jimmy Eat World... but nothing new or innovative. Excuse me while I go listen to "Robot Factory"...!

Average customer rating:

Full of ideas but ultimately leaving something to be desired...
THE band to watch in 2007
I love Concept Albums...

Act I: The Lake South, The River North
The Dear Hunter
Manufacturer: Triple Crown
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000HDRB8E
Release Date: 2006-09-26

Tracks:

Battesimo Del Fuoco
The Lake South
City Escape
The Inquiry Of Ms. Terri
1878
The Pimp And The Priest
His Hands Matched His Tongue
The River North

Album Description

This is the story of a boy, from his creation to his untimely end; from the beautifully rapturous to the truly tragic. The Dear Hunter sings of something to which we can all relate: lust, deceit, greed, and hunting. It's the brainchild of Casey Crescenzo, former vocalist, guitarist, and multi-instrumentalist for The Receiving End Of Sirens.

Customer Reviews:

Full of ideas but ultimately leaving something to be desired..........2007-07-22

I remember the day I bought this album, shortly after it came out. I asked the guy at the counter what he thought of it. I knew it was from Casey Crescenzo, formerly of TREOS, and according to the random guy at the counter, it was great. So I followed his advice and Casey's reputation from TREOS, and figured this could be a great new venture like TREOS turned out to be when I first bought their album on a whim.

Let me say, this album left a lot to be desired. I can't say I was expecting the Receiving End of Sirens; I knew it was going to be something totally different, and it definitely is. Unconventional instrumental arrangements and melodic changes make this a unique venture. There are multiple influences, but every time I listen to this album, I feel like he was so anxious to combine his influences to create something great and instead finished it as an unfocused jumble of inconsistency with some flashes of brilliance.

The album starts off on a good note, and builds up to something that sounds like it can be great, from the dark undertone of the "Battesimo del Fuoco" to the beautiful arrangement of "The Lake South." Then out of nowhere, "City Escape" explodes and you hear something totally new and exciting, albeit while sacrificing what could have been a more chilling extended introduction rather than rushing into it.

Although "City Escape" has something unique going for it, it is spaced out much longer than it should be, and the moment halfway through the song where it almost seems the band goes to sleep for a minute destroys all the momentum the song had going for it. When it finally returns, you've lost interest and wonder why the song is first rushed and then suddenly spaced out for no apparent reason. It just doesn't feel right, and this inconsistency is one of the main things that plague this album.

"The Inquiry of Ms. Terri" is a little bit better in that aspect, but the song just lacks a dynamic chorus and feels as if it settles for something less than what it could have been. The instrumentation is interesting, but evokes little emotion from the listener.

"1878" has so much going for it, but what starts out as a beautifully textured song turns rigid when the chorus is plagued by an annoying high hat and strained vocals. The bridge of the song is stronger, displaying Casey's expanded musical prowess, and it actually helps the flow of the song into the chorus again.

"The Pimp and the Priest" is an interesting song because even though I didn't fall in love with the circus-like melody at first, I think because it allows itself to be restrained it succeeds by the end. The song feels subdued, as it should, and doesn't try to force an unnecessary overkill of sound.

"His Hands Matched His Tongue," has a great arrangement to it and ultimately succeeds. It's more melancholy and heartfelt, and for once on the album, feels right at home in where the track is placed. "The River North" is a nice conclusion and helps complete a solid second half.

I do enjoy this album, but I am not going to rate it like most other Amazon users do. It seems if people think an album is good, they give it five stars. Shouldn't an album that is simply good only be awarded three stars while four and five stars are saved for the albums that are great and extraordinary? I can see some awarding this album four stars, but this is not a five star album. I'm giving it three stars because I feel the ambition is there, the creativity is there, but the overall execution is lacking and sometimes bordering on pretension. There are a lot of positive aspects to this album, and Casey Crescenzo has created somewhat of a unique sound, yet it still pales in comparison to his contributions to TREOS and leaves the listener feeling a little empty and out of touch with the music. Casey's sound is only being developed here; it has yet to be fully realized and hopefully he will understand where this album succeeded and build on that in the future.

THE band to watch in 2007.......2007-05-15

This EP is absolutely breathtaking. The arrangements are incredible and the fact that I can even say this album HAS arrangements is a sure sign that this CD is something special from a band likened to genres with Saves the Day and/or other emo/prog-punk bands. From the musical mastermind behind The Receiving End of Sirens' awe-inspiring debut, this CD has something for everyone. If you like music, you will love this 30-minute glimpse at the Dear Hunter. Their full-length drops May 22, 2007. Sign me up. There really isn't a bad song to be had here.

I love Concept Albums..........2006-10-23

"The Dear Hunter" is an exceptional piece of work that you should go out and purchase. If you like concept albums, you'll love this CD. It's like taking the TREOS album "Between the Heart and the Synapse" and taking it to a whole new level where there are no boundaries.

This is the second album I've heard of them...I like how it has progressed from "Dear Miss Leading"...but I still love that album just as much. This is more "rock-oriented" and a little bit less electronic. Definitly a step up as far as live goes.

If you love harmonies, layering, and clever/catchy guitar lines...pick this album up. If you like music...pick this up!

Average customer rating:

Great Album
One of the best pop-punk records period(.)
Northstar - Is This Thing Loaded
is this thing loaded?
Good cd

Is This Thing Loaded
Northstar
Manufacturer: Triple Crown
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B00006LLOI
Release Date: 2002-10-22

Tracks:

Rigged & Ready
Is This Thing Loaded?
Broken Parachute
My Ricochet
My Wishing Well Disease
Taker Not A Giver
Daybreak
Train Hopping In Dixieland
Cinderella
Black Heart Valentine

Customer Reviews:

Great Album.......2007-04-19

Since I first heard this band I have been in love with their music. Smarter than Taking Back Sunday and with a slightly more indie sound. It seems that TBS actually takes a lot from this band because I find similarities between the two bands. I personally prefer Pollyanna but I still like this cd.
Favorite Tracks:
Rigged and Ready
My Richochet

One of the best pop-punk records period(.).......2005-11-19

I know most refer back to bands like New FOund Glory and Blink 182 when talking about pop-punk. Believe it or not there are those rare pop-punk bands that conjure mature material that sounds great, and Northstar (unfortunately) was one of these bands. Is This Thing Loaded has great intellegent lyrics believe it or not, and the poppy melodies that would keep the most avid Drive Thru Records fan singing to themselves. I don't want to sound even more like an condescending elitist (to each his own), but really try this record out, lament their breaking up. My personal favorites are Rigged and Ready, Broken Parachute, and Taker Not Giver...Their second record was pretty good too.

Northstar - Is This Thing Loaded.......2005-01-11

Northstar have released a ten (10) track public display of Nick Torres' insides. "Is This Thing Loaded," exhibits the most lyrical competence of any rock record in 2002. By far the strongest disc Triple Crown stamped their approval on that year. The riffs are raw and erosive sounding; yet Torres' effortless vocal delivery meshes impeccably with the blistering music. These down South rockers have turned a lot of heads with their debut triumph, and rightfully so. Northstar shows promise for what lies ahead in the Rock music scene. Check Out "Rigged and Ready," and "Taker Not A Giver."
5/5

is this thing loaded?.......2004-11-11

northstar is one of the greatest bands ever. all of you complaining about the recording quality are ignorant as hell. they re-released the album and anyway the intros or whatever you guys are complaining about echo a little bit and sound kind of far away on purpose. the lyrics are amazing. nick torres is my idol, not only is he a incredible singer but he play guitar while he's doing it. the drums are phenomenal especially the outro to broken parachute (track 3). the lyrics and songwriting are intricate and amazing. not a single bad track on the album. my favorite cd of alltime.

rigged and ready - a highlight of the cd, crazy good
is this thing loaded? - a little slower with great lyrics
broken parachute - one of the coolest intros ever and a song to follow it up
my ricochet - catchiest song on the cd... no words for it
my wishing well disease - one of the harder tracks on the album but still excellent
taker not a giver - cool song with a great chorus
daybreak - guitars on this song are really cool
train hopping in dixieland - one of my favorites on the cd... some really cool isolated vocals on this one
cinderella - another cool intro with a sweet song to back it up
black heart valentine - not so upbeat song... sweet to end off on.

Good cd.......2004-06-22

Taking Back Sunday fans must buy this cd! Northstar sounds a lot like them but have their own uniqueness. They are awesome

Act II: The Meaning of, And All Things Regarding Ms. Leading

Average customer rating:

If I was a writer/producer, I would want to make a movie out of this elaborate concept album.
Most underrated band around.
Gives Coheed and Cambria a run for their money
mindblowing
This Band Can Do No Wrong, You MUST Listen To This Album

Act II: The Meaning of, And All Things Regarding Ms. Leading
The Dear Hunter
Manufacturer: Triple Crown
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000OMD4FM
Release Date: 2007-05-22

Tracks:

The Death and the Berth
The Procession
The Lake and the River
The Oracles on the Delphi Express
The Church and The Dime
The Bitter Suite 1 and 2: Meeting Ms. Leading and Through the Dime
The Bitter Suite 3: Embrace
Smiling Swine
Evicted
Blood of the Rose
Red Hands
Where the Road Parts
Dear Ms. Leading
Black Sandy Beaches
Vital Vessals Vindicate

Customer Reviews:

If I was a writer/producer, I would want to make a movie out of this elaborate concept album........2007-07-09

I've always enjoyed rock operas, but this is one of my favorites so far. I love the music and how it spans across many genres: Rock, Jazz, Blues, Ragtime, Progressive, Experimental, and other little excerpts that will make you want to rewind mid-track. This will undoubtedly be one of my favorite albums of 2007. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys new and unique music.

Most underrated band around........2007-07-09

Seriously, this may be one of the best things to happen in rock music for years and no one even pays any attention to these guys. They're too busy listening to their Panic! at the Disco songs. The Dear Hunter's writing is so great, and Casey's vocals are just great. He has a great voice and really knows how to use it. He brings in so many influences from so many styles. They even manage to fit a section into "The Lake and the River" that sounds like, for lack of a better term, slave music. Listen to this band right now because stuff this good is hard to come by.

Gives Coheed and Cambria a run for their money.......2007-06-20

74 min. album every second is brilliant! Very complex, very catchy, very progressive. Give it a couple of days for it grow on you, you won't be sorry.

mindblowing.......2007-06-01

I stumbled upon the receiving end of sirens about 2 1/2 years ago and was blown away. I saw them twice live and it was incredible. I was surprised to hear Casey was leaving the band to start The Dear Hunter and couldnt fathom that it could be anything better or more creative than what he did with TREOS. Act I was incredible in itself, but Act II is mindblowing. The album has so many different sounds and instruments. Anything this guy Casey does turns to gold it appears. If you havent heard of this band check them out.

This Band Can Do No Wrong, You MUST Listen To This Album.......2007-05-26

It is so very rare to find a band who, no matter what you listen to, demands respect and at least a polite listen. The Dear Hunter is such a band. Started as the side project of Casey from The Recieving End Of Sirens, The Dear Hunter allowed him to play songs that didn't quite fit their "controlled chaos" sound. The result was two of the most experimental and musically brilliant rock albums created in a very long time (Dear Ms. Leading, and this albums predicessor Act I). This album is a continuation of his musical masterpiece, crossing all generes into such priviously unmixed genres as Ragtime, Jazz, Lounge, Swing, Classical, Latin, and Progressive Rock. Add that kind of musical tallent to Casey's incredible vocals and storyline lyrics and you have Act II. Definately one of the best albums of this year, if not the best. A flawlessly crafted musical experiance, and a must listen for anyone who considers themselves a music fan.

This Is a Stick Up... Don't Make It a Murder

Average customer rating:

representing LIMA OHIO
Almost As Good As It Gets For Pop Punk
Short on substance, but enjoyable
my favorite, maybe yours too
Fun, but...silly...

This Is a Stick Up... Don't Make It a Murder
Hit the Lights
Manufacturer: Triple Crown
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Antidote for Irony
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ASIN: B000EOTV9S
Release Date: 2007-01-29

Tracks:

Call Out (You Are the Dishes)
These Backs Are Made for Stabbing
Three on Nine
Bodybag
Talk Us Down
Save Your Breath
Sincerely Yours
One Hundred Times
It's All the Rage
Speakers Blown
Until We Get Caught
Make a Run for It

Album Description

Ohio's five-piece bring an original twist to their favorite formula. Tying in a pop sensibility with infectious melodies, style, and flow, they can back up their emotion-fueled rock with their passionate, heartfelt lyrics and high octane live show. Produced by Matt Squire (Thrice, Panic! At The Disco, TREOS).

Customer Reviews:

representing LIMA OHIO.......2006-11-21

i know these guys,they are all good people just trying to make it. this c.d. does a good job at capturing their live feeling, full of sing-a-long styled lyrics that you'll find yourself tapping your feet to. steal your parents money and buy it as soon as possible. also "until we get caught" is a good preview to what you'll find on "this is a stick up...dont make it murder".
you can also check them out on myspace.
.thomkarbowiak.

Almost As Good As It Gets For Pop Punk.......2006-10-01

Ever since the day I picked up "This Is A Stickup... Don't Make It A Murder" nearly six months ago, it has been in constant rotation from my cd collection. Now of course Hit The Lights are not innovating the pop-punk sound that is already known and has been established for quite a few years now, but along with a handful of other bands (My American Heart, The Audition, Paramore), they are helping to call attention back to a genre that seems to have been losing relevance lately. I guarantee if you have been looking for an album chock full of sing-a-long style choruses, catchy melodies and plenty of upbeat, rocking songs, then you should rush yourself to your local record store and get your hands on a copy of this album.

The New Found Glory comparisons are kind of accurate (although there's not much that would link the two bands together in overall sound), but it doesn't necessarily mean you must be a NFG fan to enjoy this record. On the contrary, Hit The Lights do an adequate job of making it their own duty to convert fans. Beginning with "Call Out (You Are The Dishes)" the power chords ring and the band kicks into full throttle. Most pop-punk bands in today's time seem to be taking on this "semi-dark" lyrical style (things dealing with subtle violence or darker metaphors for heartbreak and betrayal), and Hit The Lights is no different, although they do a nice job of keeping it more positive than negative. If songs about Girls and breakups isn't for you, don't bother giving this disc a spin. The orchestration perfectly fits the words, as most songs are upbeat and come complete with great drumming and guitar playing. Not overly spectacular, but impressive none-the-less. The leads on "Three on Nine" are simple yet effective, and the riffing on "Until We Get Caught" is very enjoyable. "These Backs Are Made For Stabbing" and "Talk Us Down" are probably the album's two best tracks.

My biggest complaint about the record though is that the I-tunes track, "Stick Up" was not included on the album. It is by far better than any song found on the actual cd (hard to believe about a b-side huh?), and I'm still quite puzzled as to why it didn't make it onto the final product. If you can find it, I highly recommend downloading that track. I'm pretty sure you will not be disappointed by it, especially if you like what this disc has to offer.

Overall what the album lacks in diversity, it makes up for with great song writing. It's not perfect, and there may be a couple filler songs, but this is still a highly enjoyable release. You'd be far removed to find many better pop-punk albums that were released in 2006 than "This Is A Stick Up... Don't Make It A Murder". Fans of My American Heart, The Audition, Paramore or anything similar would definitely do well to look into these guys. They've haven't tread down a new path just yet, but given the opportunity to grow, I'm confident these guys could become one of the premier bands in their respected genre.

Short on substance, but enjoyable.......2006-07-09

So, in case you haven't noticed, HTL is probably going to be the next fall out boy/new found glory pop-punk megahit. Their music is littered with hooks, injected with energy waiting to be danced/moshed to by pop-punkers everywhere. It would seem that with the ammount of new school punkers "maturing", a new band would steer clear of a somewhat generic sound, but HTL don't seem to care, because nothing about their debut screams "original" or "mature". I agree with the reviewer who compaired 'stick up' to 'sticks and stones'. The lead singer sounds ALOT like nfg's jordan pundik, and 'these backs were made for stabbing', along with a bunch of other tracks, sound like they were ripped from the nfg playbook. So, I guess if you enjoyed "Take this to your grave", "Sticks and stones" or ever "Chroma", you'll for sure like "stick up". If not, don't even bother, cuz' there's nothing here for a non pop-punk fan

my favorite, maybe yours too.......2006-06-03

Hit The Lights is a fun band that makes a great live act full of energy and excitement. Ever since my friend introduced me to their EP "Until we Get Caught" i've been hooked, and have considered them my favorite band since. my favorite tracks on the cd include:

-These Backs Are Made for Stabbing: i love the title and the song just the same

-Bodybag: interesting lyrics none the less, but a very good, catchy song

-Save Your Breath: my second favorite track, very upbeat

-Sincerely Yours: incredibly catchy and fun to listen to. my favorite track on the album

-One Hundred Times: slower than most of the songs on the album, but still a great song

-Until We Get Caught: great lyrics

the only problem people might have with this album is that some of the sngs sound similar, but i would give i a try. It's catchy and fun, and perfect for summer.

Fun, but...silly..........2006-05-28

Hit The Lights is fun pop punk. It's not going to break any barriers, and it won't be in your CD player for a while, but it's a fun listen once in a while. As my girlfriend would say, it's 'cute'.

The one problem I had was with some of the lyrics. Especially the song 'Bodybag', the lyrics 'you're gonna need a bodybag, I'll break bones you never knew you had", etc. just sound so damn silly coming from someone who sounds like he spends a lot of time getting stuffed into lockers at his local junior college. He just sounds too...what's the word...'girly', I guess.

Still, it's a fun record, and worth listening to a few times.

= J

Average customer rating:

Best kept secrets
Please,
This band should be where Fall Out Boy is
Wow
so is this how it ends?

Pollyanna
Northstar
Manufacturer: Triple Crown
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Emo | Hardcore & Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Indie Rock | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

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Let It Enfold You
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Where You Want To Be

ASIN: B0001P2IUY
Release Date: 2004-04-20

Tracks:

For Members Only
Pollyanna
American Living
Pornographers Daughter
Like A.M. Radio
Accident Underwater
Two Zero Two
To My Better Angel
Between Horns and Halos
Digital Me
Rocket City

Customer Reviews:

Best kept secrets.......2007-03-01

I agree that it's better this band fall into obscurity rather, than the limelight. I had the good fortune of seeing them live, months before they broke up, and they were superb. Great melodies, and Nick Torres' wordplay is excellent. They will be missed, but Cassino has the potential to be better which is very encouraging.

Please, .......2006-11-10

Do yourself a favor and buy this cd. I promise you it will be the best 15 bucks you ever spent.

This band should be where Fall Out Boy is.......2005-10-24

(If you think about it, they should be, but FOB does suck and its probably better that Northstar isnt that big. It is kind of cool that Northstar is our best kept secret.)

I do not usually give 5 star reviews because it takes a hell of a lot to make a perfect album but in this case I had to. To those that know them, Northstar will be remembered as one of the most underrated bands of all time. This album is far better and more mature than any in its genre. The lyrics are so unique and the flawless delivery these guys give on this album is breathtaking. There is not one song I skip on here although if you had to pick the weakest song 99% would say it is Digital Me, which is still a good song. Here's my breakdown

For Members Only - awesome opener, fades in to a slick guitar riff. great lyrics - 10/10
Pollyanna - great song to name the album after; sounds like the most accessible song on the album - 9/10
American Living - this song is sooo good 10/10
The Pornographers Daughter - maybe my fav, love the lyrics 10/10
Like A.M. Radio - paints a cool picture as always 10/10
The Accident Underwater - album is not letting up 9/10
Two Zero Two - acoustic and beautiful 10/10
To My Better Angel - this song was on a soundtrack of some indie film, its a great rocker - 10/10
Between Horns and Halos - one of my favorites, makes you want to sing along 10/10
Digital Me - good song, slightly weaker, but still good enough not to skip it - 8/10
Rocket City - unbeleiveably good closer to a stellar album -"when i fall, dont forget me", 10/10

unfortunately this was a sign of things to come when they broke up. thinking back on it, its kind of sad that they ended on rocket city. a band with so much promise almost knowing they were going to fade into obscurity. this is a travesty that this band did not get more praise. Pollyanna is a great buy.

If you are just like me and dying for this band to get back together, we bot know that is not in the forseeable future so check out Nick, the lead singers new band Cassino at Cassinoband.com. they have 3 demos that are very good.

Wow.......2005-09-03

I got this based on the reviews I had read about it. I'm not even really into this type of music, but let me just say I was blown away. The beginning of 'For Members Only' gave me chills, I kid you not. It is simply indescribable. If you consider yourself a music connoisseur then try munching on this. Especially if you rarely touch on the more punkish scene, this is some very good music.

so is this how it ends? .......2005-08-15

wow they deserved more popularity than what they got but it was a good run. most people who know of northstar know what i mean. originality is present here. i'm very gald i got to hear this music and have a band bring elgant lyrics with rock, punk, emo and indie. taking back sunday yeah they're probably more catchy at times but northstar you can get so much more. it's just something that will always be in your cd rotation.

you should definately buy this cd if you don't have it, there will be no regrets

Average customer rating:

Musical Bliss
The Best CD of the Year That No Ones Knows About!!
Possibly one of the best of the year!
A beautiful album
I CAN'T STOP LISTENING TO THIS ALBUMN.

Lafcadio
As Tall as Lions
Manufacturer: Triple Crown
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Indie Rock | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

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Waiter: "You Vultures!"
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Memory Man
Gatsbys American Dream

ASIN: B0002198XC
Release Date: 2004-05-18

Tracks:

Break Blossom
96 Heartbeats
Silhouettes/Silhouetting
Carousel
Acrobat
Why We Cry at Movies
If I'm Not Out Burning
My Glowing Morning Dreams
Ghost in Drag
Blowing Out a Wish
Goodnite, Noises Everywhere

Customer Reviews:

Musical Bliss .......2006-03-07

I can not express my love for this album. I stumbled across this band a few years back, and got the chance to see them live about a year ago. I was blown away by their performance, and bought the CD at the show. I still listen to this album regulary and it blows me away everytime.

Break Blossom- Great opener. Good guitar riff. Catchy, sing-along chorus. Great breakdown. Starts the album off with a bang.
96 Heartbeats- Good, steady drums. My least favorite track. Still good however.
Silhouettes/Silhouetting- Great vocals. Great instrumental breakdown, guitars are great.
The Carousel- Standout track. Pure musical bliss. Catchiest chorus ever written.
Acrobat- "Tonight pretend your an acrobat..." Amazing vocals. Starts off relaxing and gentle beforing building up into a breathtaking breakdown. Another standout track.
Why We Cry At Movies- Relaxing track, featuring a great drum beat and beautiful piano. Vocals are at its best here.
If I'm Not Out Burning- Another great guitar track. Faster pased. Great rock song.
My Morning Dreams- Atmospheric instrumental song. Spaced out and slow. Leads up to the next song.
A Ghost In Drag- My Morning Dreams builds up into this track. Great, great song. Good rock song with good guitars. Another standout.
Blowing Out A Wish- Melancholy song. Starts off slow and leads to a great breakdown. "Don't blame Jesus, he's courageous."
Goodnite, Noises Everywhere- The title describes the song well. Great album ender. Noises everywhere acuratly describes the atmospheric guitars and piano.

Please, please purchase this amazing album.

The Best CD of the Year That No Ones Knows About!!.......2005-01-31

I was lucky enough to come upon this CD by sheer chance when surfing purevolume.com, and I listened to their sampler stuff...and it blew me away! The artistic lyrics of Taking Back Sunday mixed with the melodic sensiblities of Coldplay, and lifted up to transcendence with the celestial ambience of Incubus, this album is a modern-day masterpiece unto itself. Driving guitar pieces, slow reflective ballads, and an instrumental magnum opus come together to form an album that I consider is not made up of separate songs, but with different movements on the same style and spirit that is As Tall As Lions.

Signed to the same label as Brand New, I have no doubt that these guys will rise to prominence among the indie crowd. It's only a matter of time until they take over the remainder of the decade. I recommend this CD to ANYONE, you can never consider yorself a serious music listener if you do not have this CD.

Possibly one of the best of the year!.......2004-11-26

This cd is one of the best that i have EVER bought. i listen to a lot of music i mean a lot i know what good music sounds like and i know what bad music sounds like. these guys know what they are doing with their instruments. the rythms and beats that these guys come up with will blow you away. when you listen to it the first time you will love it, but then you keep listening to it and you will really appreciate it. this is a must have for any music lover. there isnt one song on here that you will not learn to love. this cd is worth exactly what you pay for it even if you think it might be a lot. so buy this album and support what may possibly to be one of the "great" bands of our time!

A beautiful album.......2004-08-01

I assume this is As Tall As Lions debut album. If so then this is one of the most amazing debuts I've ever heard. This record blew me away the first time I put it in and listened the whole way through. Break Blossom, the opening track, is a perfect opener that made it so easy to fall in love with the rest of the album. Any fan of guitar indie rock will adore this album.

Lafcadio is an amazing album. Beautiful, sweeping, engrossing, and so much more, the songs on this album range from full guitar rock blasts to soft, subtle ventures into the air. These songs bring so much to the table. The sweeping, epic guitars steal the show here with well written and well played riffs. Piano is used and used well through out the album. The vocals are slightly odd but fit the music perfectly, bringing to mind the vocals of Brandtson.

The instrumental My Glowing Morning Dreams leads into A Ghost in Drag, brining to mind early Appleseed Cast (minus the Casts truly unique vocals). There is not a dud amongst these songs, each is strong in its own merits. Break Blossom, Why We Cry At Movies, My Glowing Morning Dreams and A Ghost in Drag are the standout tracks for me.

As Tall As Lions have created a beautiful album full of amazing songs that will sweep over you like a fall wind during the evening hours of October. Epic, heartbreaking and uplifting at the same time, Lafcadio is a glorious album.

I CAN'T STOP LISTENING TO THIS ALBUMN........2004-07-19

My friend burnt me a few songs by ATAL and I had to go out and buy the whole albumn. It is amazing.

Average customer rating:

More Punch, Less Poetry

Stand Up Straight
Outsmarting Simon
Manufacturer: Triple Crown
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
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Silent Sober and Sound

ASIN: B0007X9U0Q
Release Date: 2005-04-12

Tracks:

Number Two
Thirty-Third And Lexington
Cusp Of Carabella, The
On The Psalms Of Many
Consciously Quiet
Passing, The
Low, The
By Way Of Rope And Razor
Falling Or Flying
Je Seul Me Tiens
Fall In Slow Motion, A
Clear On Through Kansas

Album Description

Atmospheric indie rock a la The Appleseed Cast. Soaring crescendos rise and dissipate into soothing, spacey lulls. Introspective lyrics call for repeated listens so as to fully appreciate all the album has to offer.

Customer Reviews:

More Punch, Less Poetry.......2005-05-09

I came upon "Silent, Sober and Sound" completely by accident, and it was one of the best purchases I've ever made. I instanly fell in love with the album's spacey lulls and soaring crescendos, and the way the two were so seamlessly blended together. When I saw that Outsmarting Simon had a new album on the way, I nearly pissed my pants in excitement. But, I've had the disc for a week now, and I have to say...where Silent, Sober and Sound was INCREDIBLE, Stand Up Straight is merely GOOD. It seems like the band has gone for a more aggressive sound this time, which the disc's title hints at. The seamless weaving together of soft and load vocals and instrumentation, the introspective tangents throughout songs has been replaces by a soung that is much more aggressive and deliberate in it's delivery. Stand Up Straight just doesn't have the same haunting beauty as Silent, Sober and Sound. Still, the disc does have memorable moments, and "good" from this band is better than the best work of many other "emo" bands.

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