Motion City Soundtrack - Even If It Kills Me

“Are we ever gonna get it right?”
- Hello Helicopter -

In every generation, there’s always that one distinct band in a genre that separates itself from the various others out there. For every person, there’s always that band that will make the meaning of the mere lyrics in CD cases come to life. And for that band, there’s also that one album in particular that stands out in the minds of every devoted listener. Ladies and gentlemen, for this generation, Motion City Soundtrack (MCS) can accept that title of “Quintessential Pop Punk Band”. Their third and latest album can and may be regarded as the “Album That Will Not Disappoint”.

“Even If It Kills Me” follows the commonly used theme of broken hearts and puts a spin on it. It is the touchy, bittersweet, human condition compiled into an album. As one reviewer puts it, it is “Colorful pop punk lead by a guy with tremendous hair singing about his heart being broken.” Their signature sound, in the form of synthesizers, chunky guitar riffs, catchy lyrics, and smooth melodies, is apparent, and it is clear that they have not forgotten their roots.

What made this the most expected album of them? A majority of fans know that the third album is something to be feared because of a dramatic change in the style in music. However, MCS has changed quite nicely. It stays true to the whole formula. Justin’s voice, which has been criticized for being too high and whiny almost, is more controlled. Their new sound, if any, complements them and pleases the fans. The very first listeners, especially, can still remember the days when MCS was still small and unknown, finding their way through the musical maze.

The album fires off with “Fell In Love Without You”, a fast paced, upbeat track that sets the feeling and mood for the rest. However, Justin’s somewhat heartbroken voice - which sounds a little more despondent than the last two - also sets the vibes, and it is apparent when he sings the chorus: “Every aching wound will cauterize and bruise / In memory of what we used to call in love”. Perhaps the most surprising song on the record is track number 7, “The Conversation”. With the soft piano sounds being the only blanket for Pierre’s voice, it wouldn’t be expected in an album stuffed with bouncy guitar hooks, yet it portrays the broken heart theme very well, especially with the lines: “I’m too tired to pretend it doesn’t hurt / to be left out.” Still, it hasn’t stopped them from occasionally sneaking in sarcastic lines: “It’s a sh*tty thing to say / but hey man, the clock is ticking”, or witty ones: “Let’s get wrecked on pop tarts and sex.” Using metaphors and other literary devices, Justin creates and explains stories through his evocative and thought provoking lyrics. Even though it is about a somber topic that everyone can relate to, the album ends on a happier note and a sign of hope with the last song, “Even If It Kills Me”. The last words of the last song is the same as the album, and it is pretty much straightforward: “ I sure want to get back on track / And I’ll do whatever it takes / Even if it kills me”.

Perhaps the reason for this success of the album is because of how it connects with everyone personally. For instance, everyone has a little bit of Antonia (Track 12) in them, because everyone has weird eccentricities and whatnot. And after all, everyone has, unfortunately, experienced a broken heart at some times.

But still, perhaps not everyone is pleased with this new album. Perhaps some criticize it for sounding too simple or mainstream. Maybe some still think Justin’s voice sounds high and whiny, or that the band is too overrated.

On the contrary, there are thousands of others out there wanting to see them live, and dozens more downloading the life out of these songs. No one could blame them - after all, who wouldn’t want to listen to lively pop punk about the bittersweet?

The lyrics, the music, the melodies, the variety…

To answer the question, boys, after all of the criticism, obstacles, and years…you did get it right.