Cute is What We Aim For - Rotation

[Joe DeAndrea]

Cute Is What We Aim For - Rotation
Record Label: Fueled By Ramen Records
Release Date: June 24th, 2008

I like change. I like when one day is beautiful and sunny, the next is dark and gloomy, and I'm left waiting for the storm. For me, change keeps things interesting when there isn't much going on in general. Musically, I like change too, but more often than not, when a band decides to change their sound, it's usually a hit or miss. Names like Cartel and The Academy Is... come to mind when I think of times a band has tried to progress musically but subsequently failed to deliver. On the other hand, New Found Glory's Coming Home was able to possess a sound that was different from their usual work yet still accessible to their fan base (for the most part, anyway). Back in 2006, Cute Is What We Aim For released The Same Old Blood Rush With a New Touch, their label debut done by pop-aficionado Matt Squire, and although it was the soundtrack of my Summer, it came with mixed reviews; much of which I agreed with despite liking the record so much. Filled with cliched one-liners, grating vocals, and predictable instrumentation, it was a magnet for hate. However, none of this bothered me; I loved that album for sole purpose of making me feel good with its catchy melodies and the fact that I could listen over and over again without getting sick of it. With that said, Cute Is What We Aim For avoids the dreaded "sophomore slump" with their new album Rotation by making a record that is a vast improvement musically and vocally from their previous effort.

Opener and first single "Practice Makes Perfect" displays just how much the band has changed over the past two years. After expecting an upbeat and poppy anthem, I received almost the complete opposite, and couldn't really wrap my head around the fact that this was the same band. Producer John Feldmann makes his presence extremely well-noticeable on this record. If I never knew who produced Rotation, it'd be pretty easy to guess Feldmann anyway. On the second track "Doctor," it's as if some parts (and more throughout the album) came straight out of The Used's discography (all of which Feldmann has produced) by the way it features brief and random screams that are ever so present in Used songs. Never did I think that I would ever say that a Cute song had influences of The Used in it.

If anyone thought Cute Is What We Aim For did a complete 180 judging by the first two tracks on the record, they'll realize that they still possess some of the same qualities they did two years ago on "Navigate Me," which shows the band still struggles to produce any quality lyrics. Throughout listening to the album I found myself asking, "...What did he just say?" at times instead of usually singing along to the catchy chorus. Despite Rotation's poor lyrics, they're not something that ruins the album for me as I am still able to enjoy all of the tracks immensely. Rotation's stand-out and potential single, "Loser," is a straight-to-point jam that is most likely a song someone would have found on The Same Old Blood Rush. It starts off right with a memorable chorus and is the upbeat number that I was hoping to find three songs ago. The deeper I get into the album, the more I hear how the band has strayed away from their older sound. "Hollywood" is probably the band's most diverse song to date, including horns and even a rap-like verse in the bridge. "Marriage to Millions" is another favorite of mine and is the track I always find myself going back to when I'm not playing the record in its entirety. "Miss Sobriety" has an ending that is almost identical to "Doctor" and is the second song that sounds heavily influenced in Feldmann's previous work in production with The Used, while the closer "Time" has a much more laid back sound and could be compared to Blood Rush's "Lyrical Lies."

Love'em or hate'em, Cute Is What We Aim For has displayed their ability to improve in most aspects in which they lacked on their last record. Rotation is a giant step-up and even though it doesn't go without its much noticeable flaws, they've created an album that will win over haters, garner new fans, and have me listening as I wait for the next storm to arrive.

Track Listing
01) Practice Makes Perfect
02) Doctor
03) Navigate Me
04) Loser
05) Do What You Do
06) Hollywood
07) Safe Ride
08) The Lock Down Denial
09) Marriage to Millions
10) Miss Sobriety
11) Time
Produced by: John Feldmann

Cute Is What We Aim For is:
Shaant Hacikyan - Vocals
Jeff Czum - Guitar
Dave Melillo - Bass
Tom Falcone - Drums

AP Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/cuteiswhatweaimfor) - Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/cuteiswhatweaimfor) - http://ax.phobos.apple.com.edgesuite.net/images/badgeitunes61x15dark.gif (http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/stat?id=BBwAS3l93tA&offerid=146261&type=3&subid=0&tmpid=1826&RD_PARM1=http%253A%252F%252Fphobos. apple.com%252FWebObjects%252FMZStor e.woa%252Fwa%252FviewAlbum%253Fi%25 3D279812251%2526id%253D279812108%25 26s%253D143441%2526partnerId%253D30 )

[Jason Tate]

The lasting value for a CIWWAF album is at 9.25? Oh dear god.

And reviewer's tilt at 10? Joe!

I still love you.

[newfoundmichael]

The lasting value for a CIWWAF album is at 9.25? Oh dear god.

And reviewer's tilt at 10? Joe!

Beat me to the punch.

The lasting value on this album should be about as high as a Furby's.

[punchlinekid182]

excellent review, still not a real big fan of these guys though

[hockeyguitar99]

The lasting value for a CIWWAF album is at 9.25? Oh dear god.

And reviewer's tilt at 10? Joe!


LOL

I agree that lasting value is more than just a little high

overall very good review

[Chris Fallon]

Joe, my baby ... I have to agree with Jason here - what were you thinking buddy?

At least you are spot-on with the lyrical work. From what I have heard (which is what I can tolerate ... so, two songs and even that is hard), they sound less irritating than their debut - but someone needs to teach Shaant how to write lyrics. Even Mother Goose would roll her eyes.

[Drew Beringer]

lol

[Blake Solomon]

this album is pretty fun. Nice work, Joe.

[Jason Tate]

lol
AOTY?

[tipoftheiceberg]

honestly, despite the lyrics, 'Navigate Me" is my favorite track

[MyWorldEntire]

Good review, but the score is way too high. There's something not right about this album being ranked higher than Pretty. Odd.

[CLARIFY THIS]

Did I really hear a lyric along ther lines of "I want to go back to when people wrote songs instead of hooks".....if that happened they'd be fucked

[get2sammyb]

I think this album is really good. :\

[Paulb-182]

HAHA

this album is gonna be awful...i dont think iv ever heard a song as annoying as Newport Living..

I wont listen to it

[themostdeplete]

no

[NYC27]

If anyone thought Cute Is What We Aim For did a complete 360 judging by the first two tracks on the record, they'll realize that they still possess some of the same qualities they did two years ago on "Navigate Me," which shows the band still struggles to produce any quality lyrics.

Think you mean 180...;-)

[firewater]

I think I hear Alex Gaskarth from ATL in the chorus of "Loser", "Marriage to Millions" is probably the catchiest on there. Also, Shaant has said that most of the lyrics were improvised, so pretty much zero thought was given to them lol

[birtcho]

Good review, but the score is way too high. There's something not right about this album being ranked higher than Pretty. Odd.
i agree. but they are very different and i love both of them

[jings]

looking forward to this

[OnaedInSpace]

I made it to track four before my mind wandered. Doctor has a good tune going and could be beat into my head fairly easily if allowed but what is with the stupid noises in the background?

They have improved on the first album but not so much that im impressed.

Can we really trust an album with pete wentz head hidden in the album cover? On the right wing bottom corner of the butterfly...

[Matt008]

Good review.. hit the nail right on the head

[daniela84arg]

Great review.
I think the album is an improvement too.
Rotation is more "mature" than the 1st one (in a good way)

[thedondeluge]

makes me sick. but maybe I drank too much Mountain Dew.

[firewater]

does anyone else think this album sounds like TBS's Louder Now?

[AgainstTheOcean]

I've never enjoyed this band. They were the worst band I saw at warped last year (or was it the year before?), but from what I hear on MySpace, I actually enjoy it. I've also fallen in love with Boys Like Girls, though.

Something about Chase This Light (JEW) made me get into all sorts of pop that I never would have considered listening to..

does anyone else think this album sounds like TBS's Louder Now?
Not in the slightest bit.

[TooLateF0rRoses]

that is the gayest album art i have ever seen. Just for that, no one should even consider listening to this album

[bulls2213]

good review...

but the wrong place for it, unfortunately.


:fudd:

[bulls2213]

that is the gayest album art i have ever seen. Just for that, no one should even consider listening to this album

and there's a perfect example of what i mean.

[JRaD]

nice review! i do agree that the lyrics need great improvement.

[Andrew Love]

nope

[handlikesecret]

good review, Joe. i just might check this out. i admire how you stand behind your love for the band's previous album, i might just check the rest of that out as well. i'll admit, i do like "There's a Class for This." :shrug:

[fran.182]

They really improved, they will beocme big with an album like this...so fucking catchy

First three tracks, Loser and Marriage to millions are the bests on this

[stugreenham]

nice review joe, will give the album a solid listen, thing is like em or not, this album defo makes the foot tap and the head bob, even if only a little :D

[MattRM]

Lyrics deserve way less than a 5.

[SandManTEND13]

I am really a sucker for hooks in songs and music, I am probably just going to get my friend to give me a cheap price on this at his record store. Good Review

[jetblack1231]

that is the gayest album art i have ever seen. Just for that, no one should even consider listening to this album

precisely.

[Alex DiVincenzo]

There's no RILY, not that it's really necessary with a band like this.

Any way, nice review. Glad to see they don't always get completely trashed, because they have some fun, catchy stuff that's perfect for summer.

[EmotionalJack]

Althought lyrics are meaningless and creativity isn't CIWWAF's best skill, Rotation is their best album to date, so insanely catchy... it's to be played on every blown mind, just for the summer

[skatinbabexoxo]

I have to say so far I like their 2 singles from this album. I dont plan on buying it though. I agree with everyother person here... I miss their old sound. ):

[aidan1029]

HAHA

this album is gonna be awful...i dont think iv ever heard a song as annoying as Newport Living..

I wont listen to it
The new CD doesn't sound like their first CD....

[aidan1029]

I'm not sure how I feel yet. It is a departure from their previous work, which may or may not be a good thing. I am probably one of the few people who will admit to liking the "sassy" sound of the first CD.

[SemiFict10n]

Good review. I like this album a lot more than their previous I think. It's still not perfect, it'll take them some practice though. A few of the songs are very catchy though.

[i12punk]

I think I hear Alex Gaskarth from ATL in the chorus of "Loser", "Marriage to Millions" is probably the catchiest on there. Also, Shaant has said that most of the lyrics were improvised, so pretty much zero thought was given to them lol

It's Dave Melillo.

[oh...rly]

"Navigate Me" should have been their single.....that is a pop hit right there.

But in all, this album isn't that bad. Its not as good as i was hoping but, whatever. They improved a whole bunch musically, maybe some was dave's input. (Because Dave Melilo is a god in my eyes) But It grows on me each time i listen to it. Not a classic in any means, but a solid well-produced record.

[brentkid]

I'm curious to just hear this.

[sargentlgfuad]

i still think that the vocals on the last album were unique and fit the music.
so i liked it.
i like this albums vocals too, but the randomness, musicianship and lyrics bring it down alot.
you got it right with "Navigate Me", which, along with "Time", are my least two favorites.
but some songs, like "Loser" & "Marriage to Millions" help out the album.
its a decent album though.

[Jeremy Aaron]

While I suppose "Doctor" raised hopes somewhat within the community, the album stream on Myspace confirmed that, while they've added some heaviness, they still have no songwriting ability. And let's face it. The songs may be uptempo, but they're mostly monotone, not catchy.

Also,
"they've created an album that will win over haters, garnish new fans"
*garner* - Unless the new fans need some parsley flakes.

[Klatzke]

I'm not sure how I feel yet. It is a departure from their previous work, which may or may not be a good thing. I am probably one of the few people who will admit to liking the "sassy" sound of the first CD.
Yeah, i'll admit that. I liked it.

Mines on its way (preorder) but it's from smartpunk, so that could be today, or 4 weeks from now.

[Paulb-182]

The new CD doesn't sound like their first CD....

Ill give a track a go then on myspace or summat...but im not sure if my dislike for the previous stuff will make me not like this anyway haha..BUT i am fair so ill give it a go :-)

[lightcollapse]

worst review ever on this website, hahah.

[bailmeout13]

Looking forward to hearing this on the way to and from class today.

[Post-me]

Congratulations for reviewing it, knowing how much they're hated.
I don't like the album but they have improved and musically they don't deserve to be hated as much as before, compared to other pop/rock acts these days.

[Drew Beringer]

AOTY?
oh of course!

[sowrongitsryan]

i actually think this is the best review you've written, but the music isn't that good

[Kgod]

Very good review.

[gonfreaks]

Yeah, the review is well written, I just disagree with it completely.

[bagwell5]

worst review ever on this website, hahah.


i cant believe it took 4 pages for someone to say this!
multiple sentence fragments, misused words, awkwardly phrased sentences...

[RelientAudio]

good review. especially with the lasting value/reviewer tilt. It's...it's almost like you were being honest. And open. Something i can't exactly say for those who look at the album art and make general statements.

I'm excited for this album. I actually enjoy their lyrics, particularly because they make me laugh. I mean, if it's both catchy, and amusing...sounds good enough to me.

[mike l]

i just dont find this album catchy in the slightest. i dont care if the 'music sounds better' which i dont know if i agree or not, even if it is improved it still sucks, so the least they could do is have the catchy melodies which i find this album lacks, and their hooks just fail to me.

[RelientAudio]

That's too bad. A few of the hooks seemed fine to me. Not as many as the last album, to be honest (Navigate Me comes to mind...didn't like what I heard of it)....but after just hearing a teaser for Practice makes Perfect like a month ago, it still gets caught in my head.

[permanentdan]

im interested enough to give this a go.

[TooLateF0rRoses]

worst review ever on this website, hahah.

"I like change. I like when one day is beautiful and sunny, the next is dark and gloomy, and I'm left waiting for the storm."

It also seems to have the most emo beginning I have ever seen. Makes me warm and i feel tingles inside. haha

[dwightkschrute]

cant help but love this cd

[Dan CiTi]

I'm gonna have to try this one again. I couldn't get past track 1.

[cheesebowl]

ya know, since i'm from buffalo and all, i feel like i should support them...but i really think they are horrible...like god awful horrible. sorry.

[MADSTA]

Well at least you only gave them a 5 for lyrics.

[hiddentrack]

There are just very few catchy/memorable songs after the first two tracks and frankly, even those ones aren't that great.

[strat3215]

I really like the new album, it's definately a step up from the last one. Their songs have definately matured through some lyrics and overall sound as well, especially vocals. It really shows some diversity throughout and will give Shaant props for displaying more range. With "Practice Makes Perfect" he uses good low tones as well as getting to a scream in other songs. Improvement is present and I can't wait until a third album.

[cassusriff]

Upon first listen I was immediately turned off. I may d/l this album... and I buy all my albums. It just didn't do it for me.

And I agree that Pretty.Odd. was much much better than this album.

[GregisXcore]

If Shaant had taken more time or got a co-writer the album could've reached full potential. "Navigate Me" has the feel of that touchy kind of song (pun intended) but the lyrics kill it for me.

[xholdingout]

that is the gayest album art i have ever seen. Just for that, no one should even consider listening to this album
you're ignorant. it represents change.

[refgirl23]

The lasting value on this album should be about as high as a Furby's.

But Furbys never go away! hahahahaha....Sorry, I had to. Those things are demonic.

Navigate me would only nearly be acceptable if it was on The White Tie Affair album...and even then those guys kick ass live, so any ridiculous lyrics are completely excused in my book.

Marriage to Millions has to be my favorite track on this album.

And why do they start to recite the Lord's Prayer at the beginning of "Loser"? I really don't quite get that...

[TakenByCars]

good review all in all

[augustana]

Dave Melillo is too good for this band.

[zachff]

I like a few tracks -- memorably Doctor & Loser, and whatever song talks about presidents and blonde bombshells. Other than that, it all sort of mixes together for me. I can't say I dislike this album, while I did dislike their first CD, and the vocals sound improved/much less annoying. But, I don't see myself listening to this CD for more than a week or two until Hit the Lights comes out.

[Why Bother?]

The Academy Is... come to mind when I think of times a band has tried to progress musically but subsequently failed to deliver.

They didn't fail at all imo. Such an amazing album, but maybe released ahead of it's time for the band.

[demondays524]

i'm listening to previews on itunes and it's surprisingly not as bad as i thought it would be.

[heartspelunker]

i agree that the lyrics seem to suck sometimes, but i find that i like them anyways.

[tttygxlove]

I've been streaming it on their myspace, and it's not really that bad. Sure, it's not the best album of the year (or even close), but I didn't expect it to be.

[TheOtherAndrew]

*sigh*

I'm glad you at least gave the lyrics a 5. Oh well. Whatever floats your boat.

[amberofcourse]

That sounds about right.

[JaredRigsby]

"I'm creeping your way
And these sheets aren't stopping me
That's right, it's quite simply
These sheets aren't stopping me
'Cause my mind's on a mission
And a mind on a mission
Is a mind that you just set free
I'm creeping your way, I'm creeping your..."


And these lyrics only got a 5? Come on now...
He's absolutely correct - 'a mind on a mission is a mind that you just set free'. Fact. There's no debating that. I'm surprised that no one else has addressed this sensitive issue in a song until now.

'Wake up, the first light, you and you calling out
For your criminal court
Then you fled the scene upon being ripped free
Conversation ensued
And I want to do so many things to you
Sit back, just sit
You insist you’re ahead
Sit back, just sit
Yeah, I swear I can feel it'

I can only assume that these seemingly daft lyrics are simply code words for something incredibly clever, and beyond our simple-minded comprehension. Just one more reason they deserve your praise.

I commend these young lads for the bold, outright truth they speak. May they continue to inspire and encourage millions of people for years to come with their musical ingenuity, and their message of love, hope, and creeping.

This band is not only the future of music, but of everything that is good and true in this world.

[WhoSaidThat?]

I won't lie to any of you: the stream pulled a fast one on me and I got sneak attacked with some halfway decent music. A very nice review from Mr. Deandrea. Can't say I'll be checking this album out, but I will say that Cute mitigated some of my hatred for them.

[Lacrimosa]

Santi really wasn't a disappointment but I doubted your reviewing skills anyway after seeing the supposed lasting value rating anyway.

I suppose you think Kid A was disappointing too?

[iheartmusic043]

I like some songs from CIWWAF's rotation like Practice makes perfect, doctor, and hollywood, but there's just something about them that really annoys me. Like their old sound drove me nuts. They changed but there's still something that bothers me about that and I can't quite put my finger on it. Oh and by the way, I think navigate me is one of the most annoyoing songs by them.

[Vismund_Cygnus]

Sorry Joe. I'm still not convinced about listening to this album...

...I don't even want to listen their old album.

[richie]

only 8.25 production? HAVE YOU HEARD IT?
it's pribably the ONLY thing helping this record to be as listenable and enjoyable as it is!
I think I've rarely heard such good production work.

[paigen]

that is the gayest album art i have ever seen. Just for that, no one should even consider listening to this album
haha

[i'm a big deal.]

i wanted to hear a review about safe ride, awesome song :)

[ind1ekid]

really like it myself! fair review too :D

[Sic Transit Zeb]

They didn't fail at all imo. Such an amazing album, but maybe released ahead of it's time for the band.

Come on. Santi was terrible.

[xoxbocachicaxox]

Although many of the lyrics become repetitious, I think a lot of the lyrics are also really good - not sure that deserved a 5. On the other hand, although I'm a huge fan of CIWWAF, I agree a 9.25 is a little high for lasting value haha.
I love this album though!

[gphatx]

I've yet to decide if I like this album. However, the album artwork = ew.

[TooLateF0rRoses]

you're ignorant. it represents change.


Like the change you felt when you realized you liked balls on your chin instead of vagina? and knitting instead of sports?

[Why Bother?]

Come on. Santi was terrible.

Not at all. Great rock record with amazing moments/songs.

[Chris Fallon]

Like the change you felt when you realized you liked balls on your chin instead of vagina? and knitting instead of sports?
Grow up.

[Heart-A-Tact]

Now I'm curious. I might pick it up if Best Buy has it for a cheap price.

[Nicolas]

i really liked this record, it reminded me of some Mest songs.

[RelientAudio]

Santi wasn't THAT great.....at least it didn't have much lasting value for me, my family, nor friends.

And as for the album art, I'm not a fan either. Doesn't mean it sucks, it's just not my cup of tea. I'm gonna feel a little embarrassed at BB when I pick it up. :D

[thebelljar]

I've never got through more than one Cute song at a time, to be frank...

[huckleberry]

streamed it on myspace, and while i dont think i would consider buying it, i could stand to download a few of the more enjoyable tracks

[youwithoutMe]

this shit is garbage, these guys single handedly killed pop alt rock

[TheOtherAndrew]

this shit is garbage, these guys single handedly killed pop alt rock
You act like this is a bad thing.

[TooLateF0rRoses]

Grow up.

Mr. Fallon, this does not involve you.

[Shrillex]

thats pretty high but a good review none the less

[katieissweet]

Better than Blood Rush, but still not good.

[thisgamewelose]

that is the gayest album art i have ever seen. Just for that, no one should even consider listening to this album
That was absolutely retarded.
It also seems to have the most emo beginning I have ever seen. Makes me warm and i feel tingles inside. haha
....you must not read very often, apparently.

[Sic Transit Zeb]

I don't get all the hate to this band really. Their lyrics are bad, but so are 90% of the bands in this genre. THeir sound is generic, but again, so are 90% of bands in the genre. Rotation is much better, but I don't know how 'good' it is, only because this genre is not my fav but I gotta respect some good poppy songs and they've got a few on this album.

[Sic Transit Zeb]

Not at all. Great rock record with amazing moments/songs.

Lol, really? Rock? I wouldn't go that far at all. Melodies were bad, lyrics were so-so and the vocals were ok. I like how they moved to something new, but it wasn't good. That is my opinion of course, but I'm right and you're wrong! :-p

[NoSurprises]

The album is a step up from their last album, but since their last album wasn't that great, that's not saying much. But they are going in the right direction, at least. Practice Makes Perfect sounds like it would be one of the better tracks of their first album, and Doctor just got my hopes up. After that everything went downhill...

[liar23]

Joe, I just lost all my faith in you.:-(

[Drew Beringer]

TBS rip-off

[MFhayes]

This album isn't too bad.

Safe Ride is pretty sweet song... the chorus reminds me of a Yellowcard song.

[magicmike_1234]

"I'm creeping your way
And these sheets aren't stopping me
That's right, it's quite simply
These sheets aren't stopping me
'Cause my mind's on a mission
And a mind on a mission
Is a mind that you just set free
I'm creeping your way, I'm creeping your..."


And these lyrics only got a 5? Come on now...
He's absolutely correct - 'a mind on a mission is a mind that you just set free'. Fact. There's no debating that. I'm surprised that no one else has addressed this sensitive issue in a song until now.

'Wake up, the first light, you and you calling out
For your criminal court
Then you fled the scene upon being ripped free
Conversation ensued
And I want to do so many things to you
Sit back, just sit
You insist you’re ahead
Sit back, just sit
Yeah, I swear I can feel it'

I can only assume that these seemingly daft lyrics are simply code words for something incredibly clever, and beyond our simple-minded comprehension. Just one more reason they deserve your praise.

I commend these young lads for the bold, outright truth they speak. May they continue to inspire and encourage millions of people for years to come with their musical ingenuity, and their message of love, hope, and creeping.

This band is not only the future of music, but of everything that is good and true in this world.


fuck yes dude. i dont know about the future of music, but they are the shit. i'm gonna go check your band out now

[GuitarR0cker1]

I mostly agree with this review but the lasting value is a big wtf, and there a few others parts of the review that I disagree with.

[ThatGuy]

when you do a 360 you end up right back where you started.
I think you meant a 180

but then again...it wouldn't be a deandrea review without some interesting wordplay

[loj]

still can't stand this band.

loved your intro paragraph, but it shouldn't be the longest one in the review! if you're gonna bump it with a 10 Tilt and give it a 74%, i'd love to read a more appealing case for it :-\.

cheers.

[heyzombiehitler]

Fail-

[trindaddy]

well written review, but couldn't disagree more with it. I'm not sure how it scores so low on musicianship, creativity, and lyrics yet gets such high lasting value or reviewer tilt.

[Gumbyjag]

there's a couple of noteworthy songs on this, but as a whole, it doesn't sink in as easy as Blood Rush.

[rememberthetime]

hey joe, sorry to be a nerd and correct your english.. but i'm pretty sure it's "garner new fans", not "garnish new fans" which you wrote in the last paragraph.. i only thought of pointing it out cos i was imagining new fans being sprinkled/garnished with a bottle of herbs or something hahaha..

anyway, besides that it's a good review.. i am enjoying this album..

[laurenelizabeth]

i tried to give this album a chance, but it's so difficult.

but i do like "hollywood" and "navigate me."
but that's about it.

[jbergamotto]

CIWWAF is still overrated in my book but this was a decent review.

[fake empire]

This review is a joke

[The Boathouse]

Oh, phew, personally, I was unsurprised by the opening track. I was nervous they might surprise me.

[SarahhFina]

man i was afraid that was gunna be a bad review through that whole intro...(btw, disagreeing about the academy is...)
I like this cd a lot.

[nashiscash1324]

i can dig it....for summer at least.

great review!

[arson]

hmmmmm, great review
I wasn't expecting much from this record but I might check it out

[scmaley]

Beat me to the punch.

The lasting value on this album should be about as high as a Furby's.

Ten people may have already quoted this, but that is a hilarious (and appropriate) simile.

[arson]

man i was afraid that was gunna be a bad review through that whole intro...(btw, disagreeing about the academy is...)
I like this cd a lot.

I agree, "Santi" was one of my favorite records of 2007.

[Spenny]

I love this CD.
Screw the haters, people should just listen to what they damn well like. Kudos to you Joe for writing a view that shows both your true feelings for the band, as well as an unbiased rundown of its flaws.

I agree, the lyrics aren't good and their musicianship is nowhere near many other bands out there, but its just such a catchy and upbeat CD that you can't help but like it.

I also think Shaant's vocals have improved quite a bit since the last CD.

[Spenny]

man i was afraid that was gunna be a bad review through that whole intro...(btw, disagreeing about the academy is...)
I like this cd a lot.

Then you clearly are one of the new TAI bandwagoners.
No self-respecting fan of theirs that has been their from the start can say that Santi was good. It was atrocious, mediocre at best.

[Otakoust]

Think you mean 180...;-)
why do they call it the xbox 360?
because when you see it, you'll turn 360 degrees and walk away.

[racethesun]

i get a feeling alot of people dont like this this band just because other people don't like this band.and these are the ones saying bands should be more original nowadays.. anyways couldn't stand there first record, but i really really love this one. i honestly wish them all the best.

[MyNameIsRoss]

X-)

[anamericangod]

this shit is garbage, these guys single handedly killed pop alt rock

Probably one of the dumbest things I've read on this website.

[Sic Transit Zeb]

why do they call it the xbox 360?
because when you see it, you'll turn 360 degrees and walk away.

Umm, 360 degrees is a circle. If you were to walk away you'd turn half way, which is 180 degrees.

Besides, PS3 sucks.

[Sic Transit Zeb]

Probably one of the dumbest things I've read on this website.

I agree with ya there

[youwithoutMe]

Probably one of the dumbest things I've read on this website.


no sense of humor? then again, not everyone has time like me to look at youtube videos of ice t and soulja boy arguing about soulja killing hiphop..well anyway it was a joke although rotations is weak just like their last cd. but you know that don't matter on fbr, mtv will adopt them, put them on pete wentz show, trl, and all the pre teen kiddies will love them. i give the vocals and production a 5, everything else is 3 or less

[anamericangod]

no sense of humor? then again, not everyone has time like me to look at youtube videos of ice t and soulja boy arguing about soulja killing hiphop..well anyway it was a joke although rotations is weak just like their last cd. but you know that don't matter on fbr, mtv will adopt them, put them on pete wentz show, trl, and all the pre teen kiddies will love them. i give the vocals and production a 5, everything else is 3 or less

You're right, it's not like I was the one who posted the thread about Ice T and Soulja Boy.

[hockeyguitar99]

I hate to say it

but I really like this album

[NotThtKndaGirl]

i definitely agree with the whole vocal progress thing. i can listen to this whole album through without stopping or skipping songs. shaant's voice sounds wayyy better this time around

[RockVocalPower]

Formulaic and repetitive, often awful. The hooks are mediocre and sometimes non-existent. The lyrics are overall uninspired and lame. The musicianship has improved tenfold, but the melodies and lyrics are the biggest thing holding this band back.

"Navigate Me," "Hollywood," and "Safe Ride" are all terrible songs. I don't understand why there are so many sound effects at the beginning of the songs. That coupled with all the background talking and screaming parts are just out of place.

There a couple keepers here ("Practice Makes Perfect," "Marriage to Millions," "The Lock Down Denial" and "Miss Sobriety"), but as a whole, it's a terribly mediocre and inconsistent album.

[CheChe1455]

biased review.

[MattRM]

biased review.

unintelligent reply.

[SuNDaYSTaR]

The lasting value on this album should be about as high as a Furby's./thread.

[bubonic311]

Hating a band who enjoys what they're doing and a guy who writes a favorable review about said band's work makes me feel better about myself. Keep the witty cutdowns coming, AP.

[HCO SF 87]

As someone who hated blood rush, I think this cd is great.

And what's wrong with the lyrics? I'd like to see some of you guys write catchy lyrics.

[CheChe1455]

unintelligent reply.

How so?
I would of rather read a review written by someone who wasn't constantly praising this band..

[Chuck!]

Screw the haters, people should just listen to what they damn well like.

Then you clearly are one of the new TAI bandwagoners.
No self-respecting fan of theirs that has been their from the start can say that Santi was good. It was atrocious, mediocre at best.

haha.

[doritoz]

As someone who hated blood rush, I think this cd is great.

And what's wrong with the lyrics? I'd like to see some of you guys write catchy lyrics.

They are not NICER DICER.

[mattybobviously]

I only shook my head when I saw this review.

[Jason Tate]

The thing is - I love pop music. I just don't think this band does it very well.

[JRaD]

I spent the majority of my day listening to this album. I believe the harshness on the lyrics is slightly uncalled for...i mean, yeah, shaant doesn't write amazing lyrics, but the band has progressed in sound and matured overall. Better lyrics will come in due time. "The Lock Down Denial" is definitely my favorite song, other than "Doctor". My friends were impressed that their sound is definitely different. "Less whiny" and "Not as catchy" were the most common comments I received. I'm still proud of them and glad that defending them as one of my favorite bands is significantly less difficult now.

[pshh]

lul

[Awesome_Danny]

"Navigate Me" is my new sex jam :shiftyeyes:

[jwoody]

in my opinion the best hook in the whole record is " no one is telling me the speed i should be travelling so watch me take the lead"....i cannot get it out of my head and find myself listening to do what you do repeatedly...i'm a sucker for poppy hooks what can i say

[HCO SF 87]

They are not NICER DICER.

And what the hell is that supposed to mean?

[aaron401]

this band is definitely one of my guilty pleasures.
i'm aware they are horrible, but i refuse to take them off my itunes:)


and i agree, great summer band.
i'll be picking this cd up.

[You Won't Know]

I was not even going to give this a listen. But I might like it a lot more according to this review. At least worth downloading and listening to a few times...

[DuraDuo]

Hard to expect a good album, or even a decent one, from a horrid band.

[Mr_Ian]

I was happily listening to this, even thinking the first four or five tracks were great then...Hollywood came on and it is just so, so, so bad. I couldn't listen to anymore of the album after that. i don't think that's EVER happened to me before. But seriously, go read the lyrics of that song. You'll see what i mean. Just don't listen to it...

[fadedmemories]

I never noticed the screaming, but this album really surprised me. much better than their first album, which I admit is one of my biggest guilty pleasure. The review was perfect

[fadedmemories]

I love this CD.
Screw the haters, people should just listen to what they damn well like. Kudos to you Joe for writing a view that shows both your true feelings for the band, as well as an unbiased rundown of its flaws.

I agree, the lyrics aren't good and their musicianship is nowhere near many other bands out there, but its just such a catchy and upbeat CD that you can't help but like it.

I also think Shaant's vocals have improved quite a bit since the last CD.

I agree!

[Kbm600]

Nothing special on this album. It's not horrid. Just nothing special. The weird 'breakdown' in doctor turns me off a lot. Where he goes "I'll be, I'll be your cure. I'll be, I'll be yours" retarded music playing during that whole thing.

Overall, not as bad as last time. But I won't keep it on my iPod for much longer.

[Rashad Rastam]

Beat me to the punch.

The lasting value on this album should be about as high as a Furby's.


haha furbys thats hilarious!

[MattRM]

How so?
I would of rather read a review written by someone who wasn't constantly praising this band..

You can't write a review without bias... all a review is supposed to be is the author explaining how they feel about an album. If they enjoy it, they're going to praise the band while writing the review. That's just unavoidable.

[CheChe1455]

They are not NICER DICER.

You can't write a review without bias... all a review is supposed to be is the author explaining how they feel about an album. If they enjoy it, they're going to praise the band while writing the review. That's just unavoidable.

You are right,
although I wish the album was reviewed by someone who didn't publicly talk this band up for 3 months prior to the release..

Every review may be biased, but I found this one quite pointless..

There are a few reviewers on this site who have not voiced a well known opinion on this band, why didn't they review it?

I guess no one else could take musical feces being poured in their ears?

[pand75]

Practice Makes Perfect is such a catchy song.

[richie]

i'm starting to like like like this record, such an amazing production!

[Sargent Sausage]

low to mid 60's , i feel is a good rating

[Spenny]

haha.

I know the way I worded that probably makes me sound incredibly hypocritical, but let me explain.
I think people should listen to whatever they want, I'm just wondering in a way if they are a new fan or old fan of The Academy Is.. because I've never seen a TAI fan who has been around since the beginning that actually likes Santi. Not one.

People are allowed to prove me wrong, make me a liar!

[Chuck!]

I know the way I worded that probably makes me sound incredibly hypocritical, but let me explain.
I think people should listen to whatever they want, I'm just wondering in a way if they are a new fan or old fan of The Academy Is.. because I've never seen a TAI fan who has been around since the beginning that actually likes Santi. Not one.

People are allowed to prove me wrong, make me a liar!

fair enough

[cgant5316]

i agree that the lyrics aren't too good. and a lot of songs are a bit repetitive?

[Sic Transit Zeb]

low to mid 60's , i feel is a good rating

Fo sho! It's not raelly that bad and so much better than their first

[waterxdamage]

I've been both excited and scared for this album, much like I was for Pretty.Odd., though from what I've read here, Cute won't have the same type of radical change that Panic did.
Great review.

[waterxdamage]

I know the way I worded that probably makes me sound incredibly hypocritical, but let me explain.
I think people should listen to whatever they want, I'm just wondering in a way if they are a new fan or old fan of The Academy Is.. because I've never seen a TAI fan who has been around since the beginning that actually likes Santi. Not one.

People are allowed to prove me wrong, make me a liar!

Agree 100%. I just couldn't get into Santi, and I wanted to sooo bad too.

[SarahhFina]

Then you clearly are one of the new TAI bandwagoners.
No self-respecting fan of theirs that has been their from the start can say that Santi was good. It was atrocious, mediocre at best.

well im glad you shared
too bad you're wrong about me, and i feel like you can hate it if you want to but i DONT CARE.

[SarahhFina]

in my opinion the best hook in the whole record is " no one is telling me the speed i should be travelling so watch me take the lead"....i cannot get it out of my head and find myself listening to do what you do repeatedly...i'm a sucker for poppy hooks what can i say

whoa that was creepy.
that line was playing right when i read this comment.
sorry useless.

[Klatzke]

You are right,
although I wish the album was reviewed by someone who didn't publicly talk this band up for 3 months prior to the release..

Every review may be biased, but I found this one quite pointless..

There are a few reviewers on this site who have not voiced a well known opinion on this band, why didn't they review it?

I guess no one else could take musical feces being poured in their ears?
Musical Feces?

Not a great mental image..
Just because he had said he liked what he'd heard didn't mean he's so biased. Its def possible to change your mind once you start listening/writing a review.

[JDea]

This album sounds so generic to many other pop punk style bands, but the songs are definitely catchy and have almost absolute no meaning lyric wise, which is the hilarious part
Thats just going to be their style isn't it? lyric wise.

[Heiney]

I think this album is amazing. I actually like the lyrics and think some of them are meaningful. And his voice is amazing. I dont get why everyone hates this album so much.

[ericalovesit]

i like the fact that on this record it doesnt really sound like the same old blood rush (in a good way) but they also still have their 'signature' marks on this record such as the lyrics. im sorry joe but i like the lyrics. they arent as direct as 'call me so i can get it juicy for you' and as for navigate me, i appreciate a song about sex that doesnt have the words juicy or lollipop in it. haha.

i think you get what im saying.

[Jason Morales]

Kinda funny. If you go to www.masq.com, which is the website for a venue in Atlanta called the Masquerade, you get the listing for CIWWAF's show there on July 5th. What I found funny was the blurb describing the show:

"CUTE IS WHAT WE AIM FOR is a band overflowing with energy. Their contagious desire to make power pop with intellectual lyrics is something that no listener can miss."

Energy? Check. Contagious desire to make power pop? Check. Intellectual lyrics?

That's funny.

[SarahhFina]

ok. good review but seriously theres gotta be something wrong with slamming an fbr band in a review of an fbr band...

[kigginsthisprov]

Great review, and they have definitely matured but Rotation will never match The Same Old Blood Rush With A New Touch. It's one of the best albums in my collection.

[Sic Transit Zeb]

Great review, and they have definitely matured but Rotation will never match The Same Old Blood Rush With A New Touch. It's one of the best albums in my collection.

Really?

[kigginsthisprov]

Really?

Aha, does it sound funny? I don't know I always thought it was so damn catchy. Every song was good in my opinion and when there's one song that I don't find bad or stupid I consider that album to be really good. Because a lot of time there's just that one song that holds the album from being perfect.

[SarahhFina]

I agree, "Santi" was one of my favorite records of 2007.

high five.

[Sic Transit Zeb]

Aha, does it sound funny? I don't know I always thought it was so damn catchy. Every song was good in my opinion and when there's one song that I don't find bad or stupid I consider that album to be really good. Because a lot of time there's just that one song that holds the album from being perfect.

I'm not gonna really bad mouth ya here cuz everyone has different taste but I'm surprised no one else has.

[go go gadget!]

Really, really good review--I actually might go listen to this now

[IXI CHEWIE IXI]

great review.
im going to have to pick up the new cd it sounds like

[sasalukac]

gotta admit, this album is much more tolerable than the last, with some pretty catchy songs. "safe ride" is a stellar song

[thedondeluge]

Aha, does it sound funny? I don't know I always thought it was so damn catchy. Every song was good in my opinion and when there's one song that I don't find bad or stupid I consider that album to be really good. Because a lot of time there's just that one song that holds the album from being perfect.

sup Tracy!!!

[kigginsthisprov]

sup Tracy!!!

Aha sup?

[XxParamorefanxX]

Pre-ordered the CD months in advance. Got it a day early and it is amazing! I don't understand why everyone hates these guys. Well until you have a hit song that will land in my iTunes library, you can shove it! "Practice Make Perfect", "Navigate Me", and "Through to You (Bonus Track)" are my favorites.

[mmooney]

I've listened to this CD nonstop for the past month. Lasting value was dead on for me. This is by far my favorite CD right now. My defense for their lyrics that you guys bash so relentlessly: they're not necessarily the smartest lyrics, but they are catchy, fun, AND with this cd, more thought provoking than the last. I identify with a lot of the stuff on the CD and these lyrics definitely hit the spot. basically the band's lyrics are... well... cute. hence the name Cute Is What We Aim For. One of my favorite bands by a lot.

[konstantine008]

i wish dave melillo would write the lyrics...

[punker24]

the last one was ok, the new album sucks

[RelientMayday]

I loved Blood Rush and I can't say differently about Rotation. Sure it sounds somewhat different, but It's still good music. I love it.

[xheartdenterx]

I definitely like this album. You can't deny that it's catchy. And now that I've said that, somebody's gonna quote me and complain...

[fr33kn]

They will emerge to be one of the finest bands, mark my words. This album is a warning note for all the haters out there. They have improved on everything from vocals to guitars to drums. I am sure we will see a great improvement on the lyrics front too next time. All the best to CIWWAF. You guys rock, dont listen to those shitters.

[fr33kn]

I definitely like this album. You can't deny that it's catchy. And now that I've said that, somebody's gonna quote me and complain...
I quoted you, and i agree with you. You are a hell of a pessimist dude!!

[fadedmemories]

lol @ this epic bump

[denissuxx]

Very suprised at the high ratings.

[stereokiller]

"I'm creeping your way
And these sheets aren't stopping me
That's right, it's quite simply
These sheets aren't stopping me
'Cause my mind's on a mission
And a mind on a mission
Is a mind that you just set free
I'm creeping your way, I'm creeping your..."


And these lyrics only got a 5? Come on now...
He's absolutely correct - 'a mind on a mission is a mind that you just set free'. Fact. There's no debating that. I'm surprised that no one else has addressed this sensitive issue in a song until now.

'Wake up, the first light, you and you calling out
For your criminal court
Then you fled the scene upon being ripped free
Conversation ensued
And I want to do so many things to you
Sit back, just sit
You insist you’re ahead
Sit back, just sit
Yeah, I swear I can feel it'

I can only assume that these seemingly daft lyrics are simply code words for something incredibly clever, and beyond our simple-minded comprehension. Just one more reason they deserve your praise.

I commend these young lads for the bold, outright truth they speak. May they continue to inspire and encourage millions of people for years to come with their musical ingenuity, and their message of love, hope, and creeping.

This band is not only the future of music, but of everything that is good and true in this world.

I can only assume that these seemingly daft lyrics are simply code words for something incredibly clever, and beyond our simple-minded comprehension. Just one more reason they deserve your praise.


This.

[stereokiller]

They will emerge to be one of the finest bands, mark my words. This album is a warning note for all the haters out there. They have improved on everything from vocals to guitars to drums. I am sure we will see a great improvement on the lyrics front too next time. All the best to CIWWAF. You guys rock, dont listen to those shitters.

Well, after their first release, they couldn't have gotten worse y'know.

[FallOutFreak27]

This album is amazing.
Time is the best track
Hands down

[tipoftheiceberg]

honestly, despite the lyrics, 'Navigate Me" is my favorite track
***

[chelseaxsmilexD]

Beat me to the punch.

The lasting value on this album should be about as high as a Furby's.
that's exaclty right./.
___whatever___ like some of their___songs___though..././.

[chelseaxsmilexD]

***
y\i.

[chelseaxsmilexD]

I definitely like this album. You can't deny that it's catchy. And now that I've said that, somebody's gonna quote me and complain...
wahwahwah i complain at people who don't share similar opinions with me... wahwahwah ) ;

[chelseaxsmilexD]

They will emerge to be one of the finest bands, mark my words. This album is a warning note for all the haters out there. They have improved on everything from vocals to guitars to drums. I am sure we will see a great improvement on the lyrics front too next time. All the best to CIWWAF. You guys rock, dont listen to those shitters.
done, marked em

[ToxicBadger]

Navigate Me is stuck in my head, despite the lyrics.