By Joanne
Released: February 25, 2003
Label: Drive Thru Records
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Another CD about relationships and breaking up...but it's good.
The Movielife. The name in itself would trigger a memory of a quintet from Long Island with happy music and catchy choruses. However, "Forty Hour Train Back To Penn" gives The Movielife a new image.
The CD title itself comes from the band's nearly fatal van accident while touring in 2001. With this sampler opening with 'Face or Kneecaps', the change in sound is obvious. While the music may sound a bit heavier, singer Vinnie Caruana's powerful vocals and distinct voice aren't changed in the least. Traces of TML's earlier albums are apparent in the sing-a-long choruses but the style in itself is changed for the better. The next track, 'Jamestown' is the story of the band's accident, and the train ride from North Dakota to Penn Station in New York. This emotionally-charged song based on the real life experience reaches out to the fans with lyrics such as "Late night, snow fall/Get us to the hospital", making the listener feel every word.
The third track 'Spanaway' slows down a bit from the first two faster tracks and showcases the musical and vocal talent of the band. You'll find yourself humming along in no time. The final track, 'Takin' It Out and Choppin' It Up' could have easily been a track off "The Movielife Has A Gambling Problem" EP. It has traces of the lighter pop sound of the previous Movielife releases and is catchy as all hell. With "C'mon C'mon, Shut up, Shut up," as a chorus, expect to be singing along in about oh, 30 seconds.
All in all, the throwback from The Movielife's new sound to their old sound works for them. It's good to have some of the new, and some of the old all in one CD. The difference in sounds combined with the strong vocals and true-life lyrics make this CD one of the best Movielife releases to date.
Track Listing:
1. Face or Kneecaps
For More Information:
2. Jamestown
3. Spanaway
4. Kelly Song
5. Takin' It Out and Choppin' It Up
6. Scary
7. Hey
8. Jamaica Next
9. It's Something
10. Keep Never Changing
11. Ship to Shore
Note: This review is based on a 4-track sampler that included: 'Face or Kneecaps', 'Jamestown', 'Spanaway' and 'Takin' It Out and Choppin' It Up'.
• Official Site: www.themovielife.com
• Label's Official Site: www.drivethrurecords.com