Amber Pacific - Virtues

[Thomas Nassiff]

Amber Pacific - Virtues
Release Date: April 13, 2010
Record Label: Victory Records

The color beige. Your school cafeteria's eggs. American History Before 1877. Burger King's chicken fries. These things aren't bad, they're just bland. They're boring. They aren't anything to get overly excited for. But if all the other colors are taken, you're up at 8 AM, you're a Journalism major, or you live two minutes away from a 24-hour Burger King, you'll find yourself experiencing all of those things. Let's add one more to the list: Amber Pacific's latest effort, Virtues. You're not going to frantically scroll down to it every time you open iTunes, but if it comes up on shuffle, it's not bad enough to warrant the extra effort of leaving the internet to go click next.

In typical pop-rock fashion, Virtues leads off with an upbeat track that gets you jumping in your living room on your first listen. "An Anthem for the Young At Heart" is the first eligible warm-weather pop rock song of 2010, sure to be included on no less than 157 summer mixes that bros make for their girlfriends. The promise of the first song leads to disappointment with the rest of the record. While I wasn't expecting a Shakespearian output from Amber Pacific's new frontman, Jesse Cottam, the first line on "The Girl Who Destroys" brought around one of the most heartfelt facepalms in my career. "She'll make it rain / On what's supposed to be a sunny day / I'm gonna pay / For all my stupidest mistakes." Stupidest? Really? It's debatable whether I would have enjoyed that in seventh grade. We experience an ill-advised attempt at an epic-sounding, reverb-infused jam with "Shine". It's reminiscent of "Take Me from This Place" on Amber Pacific's previous output, Truth in Sincerity, but not executed as well. While it isn't a bad song, it's not a good song. It's toast with no grape jelly.....why do I just want bread? "What Matters Most" may confuse older fans of the band, as it is constructed identically to "Summer (In B)". Once again, the band can't even copy themselves correctly.

This entire review isn't just going to keep bashing individual songs. There is one consistent thing about the record: the lyrics. Have a younger sister who just learned about similes and metaphors? The references to burning bridges and backhandedly clever allusions drawn throughout Virtues will delight her. You may think that I'm bitter, but in comparing this album to its peers in 2010 and even to the band's previous releases, Virtues drowns. What happened to the (good) hook-laden melodies we heard on Truth In Sincerity? Where are the sharp, blistering guitar harmonics that made songs like "Temporary" pogo-worthy? Virtues is less aggressive, less catchy, and less honest than its predecessor. Cottom's voice isn't bad - the guy has a great set of pipes - but he'd sound better in a poppier outfit. The musicianship on the well-produced Virtues, while leaving plenty to be desired, isn't the album's downfall. Amber Pacific's sound never changes as each track train wrecks into the ones around it.

Virtues is the definition of a band playing it safe. Lineup changes can be tough, but from what I've gathered, the band are happy with their revamped roster. They just have to transfer it back into the studio. Songs like "The Best Mistake" and "Burdens of the Past" come across as nothing less than filler, as it took focus to get through the entire album multiple times. The piano-led closing track, "Forever", caps off an output that is only half as good as it could have been. While Virtues might entertain fans of the poppier side of pop-punk for a couple weeks, it's not the first summer soundtrack that we're waiting for and that we know Amber Pacific can write.

pop rock, Mayday Parade, We the Kings, looking both ways before you cross the street"Anthem for the Young At Heart", "Three Words"1. An Anthem for the Young At Heart
2. The Girl Who Destroys
3. Three Words
4. Shine
5. What Matters Most
6. Conviction
7. The Good Life
8. The Best Mistake
9. We Can't Fix This
10. Burdens of the Past
11. Something to Be Said
12. Forever
Produced By: Martin Feveyear, Run Time: 42 minutes, 40 seconds
myspace.com/amberpacific (http://www.myspace.com/amberpacific)
Buy (http://www.amazon.com/Virtues/dp/B003EVBMKY/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=dmusic&qid=1271225612&sr=8-2)

[birtcho]

Didnt take you too long to get this one up haha. Looking forward to checking this out

[Chris Fallon]

First paragraph is right on the money.

Amber Pacific has always been one of those bands that make me go, "Oh." Nothing special, somewhat halfway decent, never spectacular. I listened to this just to see if I'd like it and even with a new singer, it hits me the exact same way as their previous records.

Kind of nice, but forgettable. Great job, T-bone.

[chcougar1]

I found myself liking this album more than I thought I would. Looks like I give it about a 76% based on the album rater. I'd say that is pretty fair. I actually really liked Shine and Forever, but I'm a sucker for cheesy pop music.

Good effort AP:)

[vivatoto56]

Very well written review. I'd probably agree with you, but I couldn't finish it.

[aradiantsunrise]

Good review man. This band is always hit or miss. Definitely a miss this time around.

[aradiantsunrise]

First paragraph is right on the money.

Amber Pacific has always been one of those bands that make me go, "Oh." Nothing special, somewhat halfway decent, never spectacular. I listened to this just to see if I'd like it and even with a new singer, it hits me the exact same way as their previous records.

Kind of nice, but forgettable. Great job, T-bone.
The new singer's voice is very...weird. I just can't really take him seriously for some reason.

[Chris Fallon]

The new singer's voice is very...weird. I just can't really take him seriously for some reason.
Yeah, same here. Partly his vocals, which seem forced, and his lyrics really do suck. The band should feel a little embarrassed to be singing this kind of stuff. They're practically my age!

[billyboatkid]

I found myself liking this album more than I thought I would. Looks like I give it about a 76% based on the album rater. I'd say that is pretty fair. I actually really liked Shine and Forever, but I'm a sucker for cheesy pop music.

Good effort AP:)
Shine is probably the only song I like on the album..

[aradiantsunrise]

Yeah, same here. Partly his vocals, which seem forced, and his lyrics really do suck. The band should feel a little embarrassed to be singing this kind of stuff. They're practically my age!
I kind of wish they would have just split up after Young left. Oh well. Rufio does it way better anyway. I have high hopes for their new record.

[Gin]

Yes, the lyrics are very weak :/
"While Virtues might entertain fans of the poppier side of pop-punk for a couple weeks..."
That' s absolutely me. I really enjoy some of the tracks, but I often switch to My Dinosaur Life and Enemy Of The World after the first 4-5 tracks.

[Rustash]

Well...I'm disappointed. Possibility and the Promise and Truth in Sincerity were really solid albums to me, i don't think there was a single on either record that i didn't like. It's a shame, i thought these guys had some real potential...

[HometownHero]

Do not want

[Chris Fallon]

I kind of wish they would have just split up after Young left. Oh well. Rufio does it way better anyway. I have high hopes for their new record.
Same here. Love me some Rufio. The EP sounded great!

[Thomas Nassiff]

First paragraph is right on the money.

Amber Pacific has always been one of those bands that make me go, "Oh." Nothing special, somewhat halfway decent, never spectacular. I listened to this just to see if I'd like it and even with a new singer, it hits me the exact same way as their previous records.

Kind of nice, but forgettable. Great job, T-bone.
I really liked the last album but this is way worse. Oddly enough, no one's ever called me T-bone. Back in the myspace days when everyone had clever alliterations it was Too Tall Thomas, I'm 6'9" haha.
The new singer's voice is very...weird. I just can't really take him seriously for some reason.
Same here. I couldn't really put a finger on it when I was playing around with the words. I just settled on taking it out on the lyrics.
Yeah, same here. Partly his vocals, which seem forced, and his lyrics really do suck. The band should feel a little embarrassed to be singing this kind of stuff. They're practically my age!
That's what I was thinking the whole time....like this is their third album and they're digressing.
Well...I'm disappointed. Possibility and the Promise and Truth in Sincerity were really solid albums to me, i don't think there was a single on either record that i didn't like. It's a shame, i thought these guys had some real potential...
First two albums were money. I guess Matt's voice was that important to them.

[snu]

The album has some ups and some downs. The lyrics really bother me and at times the new singer really reminds me of The Click Five's singer (remember them?). I agree with the review it's a 50/50 attempt some okay songs, some bad songs, and nothing mind blowing.

I liked the interview posted on here a couple days ago and the dude seemed genuine in wanting to produce a quality album, I just don't think they picked the right guy to fill the vocal spot. When I heard them originally I liked the kind of early 2000's Slick Shoes/MXPX kind of vibe they had and the new singer and some of the music itself just feels more like a pop/rock band similar to The Click Five (as I previously stated).

I like the band though and want them to keep going until they get it right. The 3-5ish decent songs are better than anything Brokencyde or any crap bands like that are writing. So I'll take it for now and hope for something better next time.

[stereokiller]

looking both ways loool. good one. :-p

spot on review.

[simplejack]

Truth in Sincerity was nothing groundbreaking, but was freaking good.

This is soooooooooooooooooo bad, the new singer's voice doesn't even suit to the music (trying not to consider that musicianship got much worse this time)...

skip skip skip

[LastDeclaration]

I've never been able to stand this band. They sound like they just learned how to play the instruments. Well, besides the drummer, but his playing annoys the shit out of me anyways.

[aradiantsunrise]

Same here. Love me some Rufio. The EP sounded great!
Agreed!

[aradiantsunrise]

Same here. I couldn't really put a finger on it when I was playing around with the words. I just settled on taking it out on the lyrics.
.

They're bad enough so that works, haha.

[vincent182]

The band will probably read this review... Guess they won't be happy with it though...

[Gautz]

I can't help but feel dissapointed with this new record. It's a pretty decent pop/rock album but it's not the same old pop/punk Amber Pacific we know and love.

I guess Matts departure affected the music more than I thought it would. In my opinion they would have been better off calling Amber Pacific a day and starting a new band as Jesse just doesn't fill Matts boots period.

It's a real shame as I absolutely loved the first two albums!

Spot on review by the way!

[EchoPark]

Good review pal. I had high hopes for this album and indeed I was let down. Seems not much has changed in 3 years since their last album.

A few tracks have promise, but it is one more to add atop the "same ole" pile.

[brothaman]

i actucally kinda like this album. though i gotta say, the lyrics are horrendous. does anyone get a Diffuser vibe from this? or maybe Count The Stars?

[holybatmon]

Really good review!

[Chris Fallon]

I really liked the last album but this is way worse. Oddly enough, no one's ever called me T-bone. Back in the myspace days when everyone had clever alliterations it was Too Tall Thomas, I'm 6'9" haha.

Same here. I couldn't really put a finger on it when I was playing around with the words. I just settled on taking it out on the lyrics.

That's what I was thinking the whole time....like this is their third album and they're digressing.

First two albums were money. I guess Matt's voice was that important to them.
6'9", but your reviews are 10"+

See what I did there? Boom shaka laka!

Hey, I must have missed this, but I'm curious who produced this record.

[Bodyjar Rocks]

I am impressed with the reviewers ability to capture the essence of the album.

[Chris Fallon]

i actucally kinda like this album. though i gotta say, the lyrics are horrendous. does anyone get a Diffuser vibe from this? or maybe Count The Stars?
His voice reminds me nothing of Diffuser or Count the Stars. Maybe the melodies? Lead singer sounds like a squeaky-clean version of the last guy.

[Memphis]

I like the new album, it's exactly what I expect from pop punk :shrug: (even if you don't call it pop punk for that matter)

[zachff]

Unfortunately I won't be listening to this, or any more Amber Pacific records. Who knows, maybe I can just wait for the 10 year reunion of Possibility and the Promise in 2015 for the original lineup reunion show. Until then, no thanks.

[brothaman]

His voice reminds me nothing of Diffuser or Count the Stars. Maybe the melodies? Lead singer sounds like a squeaky-clean version of the last guy.
yea, that may be it. just something about this album reminded me of Diffuser. whats going on with them anyway? i know they got back together a few years ago and put out another album, but have heard nothing since.

[drawndead]

awesome review. doesn't look like i'll be picking it up but if a friend has it i might burn myself a copy.

[Kill_the_radio]

I enjoyed the review. Very well written!

[Alex DiVincenzo]

Fair assessment. Good review.

[Yellowcard2006]

I'm a big fan of Truth in Sincerity...mostly because I enjoy the lyrics, song structure, melodies and vocals.

This album just doesn't pull me in the same way. I do enjoy a couple tracks.

[nathaniel]

I wondered what this band would sound like with the new singer. Not going to go out of my way to get it, but will pick it up if I see it.

[honkyg88]

I don't think American History before 1877 is bland:shrug: But other than that it's a really good review.

[Thomas Nassiff]

The band will probably read this review... Guess they won't be happy with it though...
I figured they would, doesn't change my opinion of it.

[Thomas Nassiff]

6'9", but your reviews are 10"+

See what I did there? Boom shaka laka!

Hey, I must have missed this, but I'm curious who produced this record.
Martin Feveyear? Never heard of him but it's well produced.

[Thomas Nassiff]

6'9", but your reviews are 10"+

See what I did there? Boom shaka laka!

Hey, I must have missed this, but I'm curious who produced this record.
O I C WUT CHU DID THURR

x

[inthemidst]

]Truth in Sincerity was nothing groundbreaking, but was freaking good[/B].

This is soooooooooooooooooo bad, the new singer's voice doesn't even suit to the music (trying not to consider that musicianship got much worse this time)...

skip skip skip

Exactly how I feel. It's upbeat, it's catchy and it's heartfelt without feeling forced or awkward. I enjoyed their last release, but from the sound of it, I don't think I'll care for this one a whole lot.

[inthemidst]

Unfortunately I won't be listening to this, or any more Amber Pacific records. Who knows, maybe I can just wait for the 10 year reunion of Possibility and the Promise in 2015 for the original lineup reunion show. Until then, no thanks.
Boom.

[inthemidst]

Great review as always "T-Bone" haha. I like that.

[bladerdude360]

I'm taking a first listen right now, and although the opening track was pretty solid I'm unimpressed so far. I don't remember which track it was, but there was a line about "waiting for a status update" but "I guess it came to late." Really? I had an idea of what was coming but I'm still disappointed with this.

[brenByah]

I always liked classic AP, but I can't get into the new singer's voice. It's too bad, they're good dudes, I wish I dug it. :-(

EDIT: You're a great addition to the staff, Thomas, that opening paragraph was gold! This was a gem too, "While it isn't a bad song, it's not a good song. It's toast with no grape jelly.....why do I just want bread?" ha ha ha.

[kristanxmarie]

Martin Feveyear? Never heard of him but it's well produced.

I believe he's from Jupiter Studios in Seattle. He's produced all of their full lengths and EP's.

Edit: Also, not that it really matters, but the 9th track is supposed to be fake, not fix.

[chrisdazzo]

Without the old singer... Horrible. I tried to like this, I really did.

[Thomas Nassiff]

I always liked classic AP, but I can't get into the new singer's voice. It's too bad, they're good dudes, I wish I dug it. :-(

EDIT: You're a great addition to the staff, Thomas, that opening paragraph was gold! This was a gem too, "While it isn't a bad song, it's not a good song. It's toast with no grape jelly.....why do I just want bread?" ha ha ha.
Hahaha. Thanks man, that means a lot.

[tyramail]

the first paragraph is spot on now.

[Thomas Nassiff]

the first paragraph is spot on now.
Thanks! :thumbup:

[wall e]

The Possibility and the Promise was good, haven't heard anything after that though.

[JuneJuly]

lol'd at the first paragraph...being a journalism major next year.

[Shatter_Glass]

Tool band made a tool record.

[circasurvivor91]

I used to love The Possibility and the Promise.
I honestly gave this a chance and I couldn't get past how much I didn't like the vocals.
And I'm usually one that welcomes the change of vocalists.

[Thomas Nassiff]

lol'd at the first paragraph...being a journalism major next year.
Haha I'm a Journo major right now. Make sure you double major in something else, not exactly the most stable field.

[Rysker6]

I really liked the last album but this is way worse. Oddly enough, no one's ever called me T-bone. Back in the myspace days when everyone had clever alliterations it was Too Tall Thomas, I'm 6'9" haha.

Same here. I couldn't really put a finger on it when I was playing around with the words. I just settled on taking it out on the lyrics.

That's what I was thinking the whole time....like this is their third album and they're digressing.

First two albums were money. I guess Matt's voice was that important to them.
Are you really 6'9 holy shit your the tallest reviewer ever!

[JuneJuly]

Haha I'm a Journo major right now. Make sure you double major in something else, not exactly the most stable field.

I've broadened it to Communications right now... I was really set on Journalism but then I heard that stat: something like 12,000 less journalists have work this year than last.

[Thomas Nassiff]

Are you really 6'9 holy shit your the tallest reviewer ever!
I'll take that title.

[jender4]

I have never been a huge fan. they are just.. ok?

[UnderMyDreams]

" sure to be included on no less than 157 summer mixes that bros make for their girlfriends."
I'm so tired of people saying shit like that on here. No, it will not be on summer mixes that "bros" make for their girlfriends. I have yet to meet one frat guy who would put a song by a band like Amber Pacific on any CD, hell, I've yet to meet one frat guy who probably even knows who Amber Pacific is. Pop-punk is not bro music, in fact, most bros hate the shit out of it.

[Thomas Nassiff]

" sure to be included on no less than 157 summer mixes that bros make for their girlfriends."
I'm so tired of people saying shit like that on here. No, it will not be on summer mixes that "bros" make for their girlfriends. I have yet to meet one frat guy who would put a song by a band like Amber Pacific on any CD, hell, I've yet to meet one frat guy who probably even knows who Amber Pacific is. Pop-punk is not bro music, in fact, most bros hate the shit out of it.
Hey, bro, calm down. It was just a statement. Everyone knows that true bros only listen to ADTR.

[UnderMyDreams]

Hey, bro, calm down. It was just a statement. Everyone knows that true bros only listen to ADTR.
But that's not true either:-(

[MALKiiN]

this cd is bland and boring.

[more heart]

The vocals absolutely kill it for me.

[pbueddi]

Tool band made a tool record.
you're a tool

[Chris Fallon]

yea, that may be it. just something about this album reminded me of Diffuser. whats going on with them anyway? i know they got back together a few years ago and put out another album, but have heard nothing since.
They quietly released their last album in August 2008. It's like wherever they are, the internet hasn't been invented yet. They don't have many resources on keeping things up-to-date. I found out about their last album through a street teamer who spammed the forums here haha

[imtellingseb]

enjoyable and well written review! gonna check this album out.

[Thomas Nassiff]

this cd is bland and boring.
Glad you understood the gist of my review.

[Shatter_Glass]

you're a tool
No You're a Towel

[chitty]

hey i'm with that other post; how is American history pre late 1800s boring/bland? the civil war, the revolution, uh? :)

[Thomas Nassiff]

hey i'm with that other post; how is American history pre late 1800s boring/bland? the civil war, the revolution, uh? :)
Haha. Well the Civil War is barely touched on. We just got to it with one class left. It's probably just my teacher, because I did like reading about the Revolution. He's really religious-centered and that gets annoying.

[ZWarner]

I like Burger Kings chicken fries.

[stand revealed]

when the gators score a touchdown, you can turn and high five your bros that make said mixtapes. people on here hated the original singer (although they can now pretend they don't).i 'm pretty sure this band would get bashed if patrick stump was their singer. it's their ap.net curse i suppose. that being said, i like this record better than any of their previous releases. i don't know. maybe it's because i'm not 16 and they weren't my summer anthems when i first held a girl's hand, had my first beer, went to my first warped tour, etc. i hope this record attracts a whole new target demographic for this band because they don't deserve the amount of hate they get on here when there are plenty of disposable neon clad garbage bands on here that are more worthy of it.

[hxchairstylist]

when the gators score a touchdown, you can turn and high five your bros that make said mixtapes. people on here hated the original singer (although they can now pretend they don't).i 'm pretty sure this band would get bashed if patrick stump was their singer. it's their ap.net curse i suppose. that being said, i like this record better than any of their previous releases. i don't know. maybe it's because i'm not 16 and they weren't my summer anthems when i first held a girl's hand, had my first beer, went to my first warped tour, etc. i hope this record attracts a whole new target demographic for this band because they don't deserve the amount of hate they get on here when there are plenty of disposable neon clad garbage bands on here that are more worthy of it.
I can agree with that.

[kristanxmarie]

when the gators score a touchdown, you can turn and high five your bros that make said mixtapes. people on here hated the original singer (although they can now pretend they don't).i 'm pretty sure this band would get bashed if patrick stump was their singer. it's their ap.net curse i suppose. that being said, i like this record better than any of their previous releases. i don't know. maybe it's because i'm not 16 and they weren't my summer anthems when i first held a girl's hand, had my first beer, went to my first warped tour, etc. i hope this record attracts a whole new target demographic for this band because they don't deserve the amount of hate they get on here when there are plenty of disposable neon clad garbage bands on here that are more worthy of it.

I agree 100%

[Silent Laughter]

when the gators score a touchdown, you can turn and high five your bros that make said mixtapes. people on here hated the original singer (although they can now pretend they don't).i 'm pretty sure this band would get bashed if patrick stump was their singer. it's their ap.net curse i suppose. that being said, i like this record better than any of their previous releases. i don't know. maybe it's because i'm not 16 and they weren't my summer anthems when i first held a girl's hand, had my first beer, went to my first warped tour, etc. i hope this record attracts a whole new target demographic for this band because they don't deserve the amount of hate they get on here when there are plenty of disposable neon clad garbage bands on here that are more worthy of it.

This.

I'm not gonna pretend I'm some longtime fan, I got into them right after Jesse joined (more coincidence than anything, had been meaning to check them out for awhile). I enjoy their CDs with Matt, but his voice seems so - flat. New guy sounds much better. All the people that prefer Matt, I've yet to read an explanation why. I've asked, but I guess I'm in newbie limbo ;-) Sorry this place isn't my life. I guess its like you said, their youthful memories/experiences are attached to his voice.

Oh, and I am into some of those disposable neon bands. And I've gotten some people older than me into them. Its cool, I'm not 16 anymore, nothing to prove, I'm secure with myself liking cheesy pop music. Someone mentioned Click Five, I'll admit it, I'm a fan :-p Power-pop's been around for awhile (Cheap Trick, anyone?).

[Thomas Nassiff]

when the gators score a touchdown, you can turn and high five your bros that make said mixtapes. people on here hated the original singer (although they can now pretend they don't).i 'm pretty sure this band would get bashed if patrick stump was their singer. it's their ap.net curse i suppose. that being said, i like this record better than any of their previous releases. i don't know. maybe it's because i'm not 16 and they weren't my summer anthems when i first held a girl's hand, had my first beer, went to my first warped tour, etc. i hope this record attracts a whole new target demographic for this band because they don't deserve the amount of hate they get on here when there are plenty of disposable neon clad garbage bands on here that are more worthy of it.
Uh huh. I started listening to Amber Pacific for real after they released Truth in Sincerity, I had only had a couple songs before that. So those guys weren't the soundtrack to my first beer or any of that shit you said, Amber Pacific have never been one of my favorite bands. I didn't say Virtues was the worst album I'd ever heard or that I'd ever reviewed, I know they aren't as bad as those other shit bands. But this isn't a review for those shit bands so your point is useless. I backed this band when I liked them, and this record was shit for me, so I wrote this review of it. All my reviews are going to be written straight up, if I like the record, it will be as evident as when I don't like the record, while trying my hardest to keep the scores and writing unbiased.

If you like this album better, then fine. Believe me, I don't give a fuck. If I wanted everyone to agree with my opinions, I wouldn't be writing these reviews. But there's no need to waltz in here and defend them like I attacked you personally when all I did was write what I think about an album.

[Thomas Nassiff]

This.

I'm not gonna pretend I'm some longtime fan, I got into them right after Jesse joined (more coincidence than anything, had been meaning to check them out for awhile). I enjoy their CDs with Matt, but his voice seems so - flat. New guy sounds much better. All the people that prefer Matt, I've yet to read an explanation why. I've asked, but I guess I'm in newbie limbo ;-) Sorry this place isn't my life. I guess its like you said, their youthful memories/experiences are attached to his voice.

Oh, and I am into some of those disposable neon bands. And I've gotten some people older than me into them. Its cool, I'm not 16 anymore, nothing to prove, I'm secure with myself liking cheesy pop music. Someone mentioned Click Five, I'll admit it, I'm a fan :-p Power-pop's been around for awhile (Cheap Trick, anyone?).
Awesome that you like the band now. Let me help you clarify why I liked them better when Matt was around: they made better music. Is that clear enough for you? Like I told the other poster, I have no youthful memories of this group; most of those memories are attached to Yellowcard and New Found Glory and other various pop punk groups. Also awesome that you like the shit neon bands, I really value your opinion a lot more now that you said that.

[Chris Fallon]

Who knew that Amber Pacific would attract such crybabies. They aren't even on the same plain as FOB or even All Time Low. They appear to be inspired by said bands and I'm sure don't even have to admit they would love that kind of recognition. They won't ever do so writing albums like this -- I feel like this is an album that should have been released two or three years ago. This is precisely the album brosef is talking about -- soundtrack to Warped Tour, first beer, hand-holding, etc. The cover is just as unimaginative as the songwriting, and it's a shame that guys this young who have been through a couple scene changes still hark back to what was cool in 2005. Oh well.

[Moira Amiss]

i like the album. i think everyone is expecting too much out of artists these days. it took some getting used to the new singer's voice, but the more i listen to the album, the better it sounds to me. i don't know, i guess i just know not to go to AP for smart, groundbreaking lyrics/musicianship. :shrug:

[Thomas Nassiff]

i like the album. i think everyone is expecting too much out of artists these days. it took some getting used to the new singer's voice, but the more i listen to the album, the better it sounds to me. i don't know, i guess i just know not to go to AP for smart, groundbreaking lyrics/musicianship. :shrug:
Expecting too much? I was completely neutral going into this album. It's extremely unimpressive and underwhelming. There's nothing wrong with expecting good music, why else would you be listening?

[stand revealed]

Uh huh. I started listening to Amber Pacific for real after they released Truth in Sincerity, I had only had a couple songs before that. So those guys weren't the soundtrack to my first beer or any of that shit you said, Amber Pacific have never been one of my favorite bands. I didn't say Virtues was the worst album I'd ever heard or that I'd ever reviewed, I know they aren't as bad as those other shit bands. But this isn't a review for those shit bands so your point is useless. I backed this band when I liked them, and this record was shit for me, so I wrote this review of it. All my reviews are going to be written straight up, if I like the record, it will be as evident as when I don't like the record, while trying my hardest to keep the scores and writing unbiased.

If you like this album better, then fine. Believe me, I don't give a fuck. If I wanted everyone to agree with my opinions, I wouldn't be writing these reviews. But there's no need to waltz in here and defend them like I attacked you personally when all I did was write what I think about an album.

First off, I'm not trying to make any specific point to you or anyone. I came in here to voice my opinion, which apparently is not as valid as yours because I don't "officially" write for ap.net. I never implied that any of the correlations to the band's previous works to personal memories (i.e. first car my parents bought me, stealing the bully's girlfriend, etc.) had any connection to you personally and I'm sorry that you interpreted it that way. I was paraphrasing what a great deal of others' replies had said to that point.

Opinions are like assholes, everyone has one. I liked the record, you didn't. Big deal. There's no need for you to waltz back in here and get huffy because I didn't agree with you. You wrote your review. Fine. Let it stand. You don't need to rush back in here everytime someone agrees with you and pat yourself on the back. Nor do you need to argue with those that don't.

[Thomas Nassiff]

First off, I'm not trying to make any specific point to you or anyone. I came in here to voice my opinion, which apparently is not as valid as yours because I don't "officially" write for ap.net.
I stopped reading after this. I never said, implied, or thought that. Goodbye.

[Silent Laughter]

Awesome that you like the band now. Let me help you clarify why I liked them better when Matt was around: they made better music. Is that clear enough for you? Like I told the other poster, I have no youthful memories of this group; most of those memories are attached to Yellowcard and New Found Glory and other various pop punk groups. Also awesome that you like the shit neon bands, I really value your opinion a lot more now that you said that.

I just wrote my opinion, I admit that's all it is. No need for an AP writer representing the entire website to resort to sarcasm. I'm not here for popularity, I just don't see the problem admitting you like stuff that's fun and catchy. I forget how young and uptight some of you are. You have positive memories attached to Yellowcard and New Found Glory? That's cool, I remember all the shit they got for being Blink clones. And all the shit Blink and MxPx got for being Green Day clones. And on and on. I have great college Green Day memories, though I remember all the shit they took for being Ramones clones. Guess I've always had a more open mind towards newer "pop rock" than most rock fans, hence why I'm posting about Amber Pacific and "shit" neon bands ;-) People usually have movies they admit liking where they can just turn off their brain and enjoy, but then get so self important re: music. Always thought that was weird.

Thanks for attempting to answer my question about Matt's vocals. Your opinion seems to be the minority, though. Most non-fans of the "Jesse era" seem to love the current music, they just REALLY prefer Matt's vocals. So my question still stands. Dude just sounds flat to me.

Hey, at least we both enjoy Butch Walker (from checking your band list). Do you like his Marvelous 3 stuff? Some of that was pretty goofy, not to be taken too seriously, but I love it, great hooks. I doubt he'll ever top it.

So lets all cool it with the sarcastic, snooty, personal attacks. You guys represent this website and I assume (uh-oh) you're expected to behave like mature professionals. Superior music taste or not.

[Silent Laughter]

First off, I'm not trying to make any specific point to you or anyone. I came in here to voice my opinion, which apparently is not as valid as yours because I don't "officially" write for ap.net. I never implied that any of the correlations to the band's previous works to personal memories (i.e. first car my parents bought me, stealing the bully's girlfriend, etc.) had any connection to you personally and I'm sorry that you interpreted it that way. I was paraphrasing what a great deal of others' replies had said to that point.

Opinions are like assholes, everyone has one. I liked the record, you didn't. Big deal. There's no need for you to waltz back in here and get huffy because I didn't agree with you. You wrote your review. Fine. Let it stand. You don't need to rush back in here everytime someone agrees with you and pat yourself on the back. Nor do you need to argue with those that don't.

Respect. Why aren't you writing for this site?

[Thomas Nassiff]

I just wrote my opinion, I admit that's all it is. No need for an AP writer representing the entire website to resort to sarcasm. I'm not here for popularity, I just don't see the problem admitting you like stuff that's fun and catchy. I forget how young and uptight some of you are. You have positive memories attached to Yellowcard and New Found Glory? That's cool, I remember all the shit they got for being Blink clones. And all the shit Blink and MxPx got for being Green Day clones. And on and on. I have great college Green Day memories, though I remember all the shit they took for being Ramones clones. Guess I've always had a more open mind towards newer "pop rock" than most rock fans, hence why I'm posting about Amber Pacific and "shit" neon bands ;-) People usually have movies they admit liking where they can just turn off their brain and enjoy, but then get so self important re: music. Always thought that was weird.

Thanks for attempting to answer my question about Matt's vocals. Your opinion seems to be the minority, though. Most non-fans of the "Jesse era" seem to love the current music, they just REALLY prefer Matt's vocals. So my question still stands. Dude just sounds flat to me.

Hey, at least we both enjoy Butch Walker (from checking your band list). Do you like his Marvelous 3 stuff? Some of that was pretty goofy, not to be taken too seriously, but I love it, great hooks. I doubt he'll ever top it.

So lets all cool it with the sarcastic, snooty, personal attacks. You guys represent this website and I assume (uh-oh) you're expected to behave like mature professionals. Superior music taste or not.
I don't claim to represent the whole website when I'm talking to you. I'm only representing myself. I also would never claim to have a "superior" music taste to anyone, whatever that even means. I don't see anything wrong with admitting you like any type of music. I'll openly admit that I liked Forever the Sickest Kids when they started out. I don't really dig that type of music anymore. As far as Amber Pacific goes, I even thought the old music was better, which I commented on in my review. The guitars on Truth in Sincerity were much better and more impressive than on this record, in my opinion. This band made their pop punk hits and should be maturing with their third album but instead are going backward. And I've never met someone your age who really enjoyed this type of music, the music itself seems pretty immature. At 33, I doubt I'll be listening to half the music I am today just from a standpoint of the volume of it. I do love me some Butch Walker but his Marvelous 3 stuff doesn't compare to his solo stuff...and that's the distinction I draw to what I'll be listening to when I'm 33. I'll probably play Sycamore Meadows as long as I live, but catchy hooks and immature lyrics are not timeless. I'm not saying I won't listen to any more pop punk, but I can't imagine being your age and even checking out a CD written by Amber Pacific. To each their own, though. I'm not trying to criticize your taste as much as just draw the distinction as to how different our tastes are.

[Chris Fallon]

Respect. Why aren't you writing for this site?
Because we're doing fine with the awesome staff we already have.

[Yellowcard2006]

This is getting kinda srs.

[Thomas Nassiff]

This is getting kinda srs.
Awesome avatar. Already ordered my split and the Tigers Jaw acoustic 7", can't wait to hear them.

[Yellowcard2006]

Awesome avatar. Already ordered my split and the Tigers Jaw acoustic 7", can't wait to hear them.
Oh me too. "Kaleidoscope" is one of my favorite songs of this year so far. Gonna be a great split.

[stand revealed]

Respect. Why aren't you writing for this site?

i kinda like it the way it is. :)

[stand revealed]

Because we're doing fine with the awesome staff we already have.

feeling's mutual, brosefski!

[Silent Laughter]

I don't claim to represent the whole website when I'm talking to you. I'm only representing myself. I also would never claim to have a "superior" music taste to anyone, whatever that even means. I don't see anything wrong with admitting you like any type of music. I'll openly admit that I liked Forever the Sickest Kids when they started out. I don't really dig that type of music anymore. As far as Amber Pacific goes, I even thought the old music was better, which I commented on in my review. The guitars on Truth in Sincerity were much better and more impressive than on this record, in my opinion. This band made their pop punk hits and should be maturing with their third album but instead are going backward. And I've never met someone your age who really enjoyed this type of music, the music itself seems pretty immature. At 33, I doubt I'll be listening to half the music I am today just from a standpoint of the volume of it. I do love me some Butch Walker but his Marvelous 3 stuff doesn't compare to his solo stuff...and that's the distinction I draw to what I'll be listening to when I'm 33. I'll probably play Sycamore Meadows as long as I live, but catchy hooks and immature lyrics are not timeless. I'm not saying I won't listen to any more pop punk, but I can't imagine being your age and even checking out a CD written by Amber Pacific. To each their own, though. I'm not trying to criticize your taste as much as just draw the distinction as to how different our tastes are.

I suppose it is rare for someone my age to admit liking Amber Pacific. I've turned a few people older than me onto this stuff, old school power pop fans. They really dug it, just hadn't been exposed to it. What about Justin Pierre and Mike Herrera? They're my age. Mike guested on an AP record, so I assume he's a fan. Only reason I knew about All Time Low, Motion City Soundtrack, Amber Pacific, etc is someone passed me a Sampler CD at a Butch Walker show...and it snowballed from there. Oh, and Boys Like Girls opened the show.

But yeah, its probably also a guilty pleasure thing for "older" rock fans. Most definitely won't be caught dead at shows - unless its parents there with the kids lol But I'd be surprised if at least some aren't rocking out in their heads. I'm over the posturing about only liking "serious" bands, seems kinda junior high. I just prefer most of my rock catchy and fun, makes me feel young...and its escapism. I'd rather not take life serious all the time. I probably get it from my Dad, he was always open minded about what I listened to. Did seem kinda weird sometimes lol

Rock fans seem to take music more seriously and have higher standards than fans of other genres, that's why shit like Pussycat Dolls, etc dominates the charts. But I see what you mean, there's definitely some stuff I liked in high school/college that seems cheesy and dated now. That said, I'm still basically the same person, still love catchy hooks. Hopefully I always stay open to new pop/rock genres.

Got a little OT there :-) Sorry people.

[Silent Laughter]

Because we're doing fine with the awesome staff we already have.

Differences in music taste aside, at least you stand behind your staff. Good for morale, I'm sure. If only more employers conducted themselves accordingly :-)

[Thomas Nassiff]

I suppose it is rare for someone my age to admit liking Amber Pacific. I've turned a few people older than me onto this stuff, old school power pop fans. They really dug it, just hadn't been exposed to it. What about Justin Pierre and Mike Herrera? They're my age. Mike guested on an AP record, so I assume he's a fan. Only reason I knew about All Time Low, Motion City Soundtrack, Amber Pacific, etc is someone passed me a Sampler CD at a Butch Walker show...and it snowballed from there. Oh, and Boys Like Girls opened the show.

But yeah, its probably also a guilty pleasure thing for "older" rock fans. Most definitely won't be caught dead at shows - unless its parents there with the kids lol But I'd be surprised if at least some aren't rocking out in their heads. I'm over the posturing about only liking "serious" bands, seems kinda junior high. I just prefer most of my rock catchy and fun, makes me feel young...and its escapism. I'd rather not take life serious all the time. I probably get it from my Dad, he was always open minded about what I listened to. Did seem kinda weird sometimes lol

Rock fans seem to take music more seriously and have higher standards than fans of other genres, that's why shit like Pussycat Dolls, etc dominates the charts. But I see what you mean, there's definitely some stuff I liked in high school/college that seems cheesy and dated now. That said, I'm still basically the same person, still love catchy hooks. Hopefully I always stay open to new pop/rock genres.

Got a little OT there :-) Sorry people.
It seems like most people your age have taken a composition of the music that their parents listened to and the best stuff that they listened to when they were younger. That's my theory. I feel like when I'm 30 I'll be listening to rock and roll and nothing else. That's how my dad is --- the only stuff that I listen to that he likes are Yellowcard, newer Green Day, The Gaslight Anthem; what I consider to be the more talented bands that I listen to and those that are closer to rock and roll.

[Silent Laughter]

It seems like most people your age have taken a composition of the music that their parents listened to and the best stuff that they listened to when they were younger. That's my theory. I feel like when I'm 30 I'll be listening to rock and roll and nothing else. That's how my dad is --- the only stuff that I listen to that he likes are Yellowcard, newer Green Day, The Gaslight Anthem; what I consider to be the more talented bands that I listen to and those that are closer to rock and roll.

I can kinda agree with your theory. I was gonna say something like that in my last post, but was running long. Seems most people my age are either stuck in the 80s or, especially, the 90s. Or if they are into new stuff, its only what they're exposed to on the radio, like Nickelback or Kings of Leon (as rock examples). Or if they seek out new rock, they're more likely to dig the experimental/artsy type bands. And like you said, combined with what their parents listened to. If they genuinely enjoy that music, that's cool, but like I said, I'm over suppressing my personal taste just to be considered hip or smart. Its entertainment, not nuclear physics :-) I don't mind songs about high school; we were all there at some point and I remember what it was like. More life experiences and maturity, but basically the same person.

I love "Paper Walls" by Yellowcard - much better than "Ocean Avenue" IMO (still need to hear "Lights and Sounds"). Green Day (and the Ramones) got me into pop punk. Loved them since I first popped in "Dookie" (wait, did that sound right? lol). Gaslight Anthem, I can see appealing to fans of Springsteen, the Replacements, and Social Distortion (I like all 3). They've got that old school rock n' roll cred, I'm not surprised your Dad likes them. He doesn't like Butch? I couldn't quite get my Dad into Butch. Poison, yes lol

[Thomas Nassiff]

I can kinda agree with your theory. I was gonna say something like that in my last post, but was running long. Seems most people my age are either stuck in the 80s or, especially, the 90s. Or if they are into new stuff, its only what they're exposed to on the radio, like Nickelback or Kings of Leon (as rock examples). Or if they seek out new rock, they're more likely to dig the experimental/artsy type bands. And like you said, combined with what their parents listened to. If they genuinely enjoy that music, that's cool, but like I said, I'm over suppressing my personal taste just to be considered hip or smart. Its entertainment, not nuclear physics :-) I don't mind songs about high school; we were all there at some point and I remember what it was like. More life experiences and maturity, but basically the same person.

I love "Paper Walls" by Yellowcard - much better than "Ocean Avenue" IMO (still need to hear "Lights and Sounds"). Green Day (and the Ramones) got me into pop punk. Loved them since I first popped in "Dookie" (wait, did that sound right? lol). Gaslight Anthem, I can see appealing to fans of Springsteen, the Replacements, and Social Distortion (I like all 3). They've got that old school rock n' roll cred, I'm not surprised your Dad likes them. He doesn't like Butch? I couldn't quite get my Dad into Butch. Poison, yes lol
So you're listening to Amber Pacific instead of rock and roll?

[Silent Laughter]

So you're listening to Amber Pacific instead of rock and roll?

I guess you'd have to define rock n' roll. There's plenty of rock subgenres and labels thrown around, some of which are pop-rock, pop punk, and powerpop. All of which fit Amber Pacific. Do they sounds like the Rolling Stones? No. Springsteen? Queen? AC/DC? The Stooges? Pink Floyd? Nirvana? Nine Inch Nails? Radiohead? No, but they're still rock IMO. I do listen to Springsteen and plenty of stuff from the 70s-90s. Certainly not 24/7 Amber Pacific lol Its not just about hooks, I do appreciate well thought out, clever, and personal lyrics. Motion City Soundtrack and the Academy Is... (for the most part) do that really well for pop punk. I guess I like a balance between fun and serious, for music.

[Thomas Nassiff]

I guess you'd have to define rock n' roll. There's plenty of rock subgenres and labels thrown around, some of which are pop-rock, pop punk, and powerpop. All of which fit Amber Pacific. Do they sounds like the Rolling Stones? No. Springsteen? Queen? AC/DC? The Stooges? Pink Floyd? Nirvana? Nine Inch Nails? Radiohead? No, but they're still rock IMO. I do listen to Springsteen and plenty of stuff from the 70s-90s. Certainly not 24/7 Amber Pacific lol Its not just about hooks, I do appreciate well thought out, clever, and personal lyrics. Motion City Soundtrack and the Academy Is... (for the most part) do that really well for pop punk. I guess I like a balance between fun and serious, for music.
Amber Pacific are pop rock. This CD has almost no traces of any "punk" influence. I really can't even believe we're comparing Amber Pacific and Bruce Springsteen, even mentioning them in the same sentence.

[ship of beers]

yeah, disappointing

[Silent Laughter]

Damn...no one had my back on this. Disappointing indeed, kids ::sniff::

Though after listening to the CD many, many times, I did start to notice flaws in the new guy's voice. Still prefer him to Matt though...and in the end, for me, its all about the hooks. This album delivered IMO.