Welcome to the Music blog! I call it music because, although not necessarily contained to the art, is the centerpieced focus of the blog. The address is emolistenings because it brings class to depression. Today we will start off with some reviews, expanded for non-emo listeners. For all you MySpacers, add me. My space is http://myspace.com/magicutopia. Here go the reviews. Oh, by the way, here's a key:

* = Crap is high-class compared to this.
** = Doesn't deserve plagiarism.
*** = If you like the genre, go on, splurge for it.
**** = Worthy of any collection.
***** = Buy now! Listen much! Be addicted!

Finger Eleven - Them vs. You vs. Me
****1/2
Canadian quintet Finger Eleven were made a hit in the States with their mellow single "One Thing." Now, Them vs. You vs. Me gives us a further insight into F11's eclectic taste. The album has already spawned a red hot single with tons of radio time, "Paralyzer." This unbelievably catchy song mixes infectious beats with frontman Scott Anderson's raspy vocals. Throughout the album, though, Anderson's vocals evolve enormously. The styles on the album stray from the "Paralyzer" style. "Falling On" is an amazing rock-pop hybrid with an amazing concept and melodic guitar hooks. Then comes "So-So Suicide," an undoubtedly rock-hardcore blend with a catchy hook and perfect guitar backup. What's more, "Sense of a Spark" mixes in, another memorable rock beat. The rock doesn't stop; "Lost My Way" is a powerfully sung hard rock ballad with catchy beats and infectious rhythms. If any tracks are worthy of the word 'ballad', however, it would be "I'll Keep Your Memory Vague" and "Window Song." Both tunes are emotionally sung. Two pop-rock songs, "Talking to the Walls" and "Gather and Give" follow. "Walls" is well versed and the vocals are excellent. "Gather" feels like a Christian contemporary song, and could be one. It's just as good, and I like it. "Easy Life," a rhetorical song about today's - well, easy life - that drives the record home. Get this one. 'Bye fer now, evurybuddy!

Ian