Forgive Durden - Razia's Shadow: A Musical

[Drew Beringer]

Forgive Durden – Razia’s Shadow: A Musical
Release Date: October 28, 2008
Record Label: Fueled By Ramen

It was only a matter of time before a band from the “scene” would have the ambition to write and record a musical. Quite frankly, I would have expected it to be done by a band like Say Anything or Angels & Airwaves (although that would have been horrible). Instead, it is the brainchild of Thomas Dutton, the sole remaining member of Forgive Durden, a band often overlooked on the Fueled By Ramen roster.

Dutton co-wrote Razia’s Shadow with his brother, Paul. He also organized and played most of the instrumentation on the album, with former Gatsby’s American Dream drummer Rudy Gajadhar hitting the skins. To bring Razia to life though, Dutton summoned the help of many top vocalists in the scene, including Max Bemis (Say Anything), Greta Salpeter (The Hush Sound), Aaron Weiss (mewithoutYou), and Chris Conley (Saves The Day). Each guest contributed a voice to a character in the musical.

Produced by Casey Bates, Razia’s Shadow is a thirteen track journey that tells “the story of a world divided in two by the selfish actions of a powerful and egotistical, yet insecure angel. After generations of darkness, the world is eventually brought back together by the love and sacrifice of a couple brave enough to fulfill their destinies.” Bates’ production is pristine, and along with Weiss’ narration, helps the story move crisply and cleanly. The story is winding and intimate, ripe with themes of hope, corruption, deceit, and love. I won’t be getting into the depth of Razia’s storyline because that is up to you, the listener, to interpret. Rather, I’ll discuss whether or not Dutton successfully brought his image to life.

“Genesis” begins with the awakening of triumphant strings, which lead into Weiss’ narration. It picks up with Casey Crescenzo (of Dear Hunter fame) vocals leading the charge over delicate bells and a steady drum beat. The pace is choppy and transitions into the waltzy “The Missing Piece,” which features beautiful vocals from Lizzie Huffman. “Life Is Looking Up” is the only track that has no guest vocals. A restless track, Dutton sings with urgency, as strings and drums bellow throughout.

“The Spider and The Lamps” is vibrant and groovy, with Max Bemis making the spider character his own. His voice is razor sharp and plays off of Dutton’s voice perfectly. The drumming is excellent and the piano mimics a spider furiously spinning a web. Chris Conley appears as Toba in “Toba The Tura,” a song that begins softly with soothing strings but slowly builds into a biting bridge that Conley completely owns. These two tracks are the highlight of the album for me, as Bemis and Conley portray their characters quite well.

The best contribution, however, comes from Greta Salpeter, the voice of Princess Anhura. Her vocals in “It’s True Love” (a ballad between her and Dutton) and “Meet The King” (her turn with former Gatsby’s American Dream vocalist Nic Newsham) are stunning. Her dark, luscious voice paces the tracks, even though “Meet The King” has a childish vibe to it. “Doctor Doctor” with The Matches' Shawn Harris is mischievous and sounds like it should be featured in the next Burton film. Harris does a fine job of altering his voice to take on the Doctor character, but, overall, the song is ridiculous. The frenzied closer, “The End and The Beginning,” features a vocal battle between Dutton and Panic At The Disco’s Brendon Urie and ends with a beautiful harmony between Dutton and Salpeter. Weiss’ narration completes Razia’s Shadow, cumulating on a few words of wisdom.

Razia’s Shadow is highly ambitious, and with the help of many “scene” leaders, Thomas Dutton is successful at pulling off his vision. Sure, some of the songs are outlandish and the lyrics cheesy at times, but that doesn’t hinder Razia’s Shadow from capturing your imagination. Obviously without the help of Greta Salpeter, Brendon Urie, Max Bemis, and others, this wouldn’t have the same results, but Dutton gathered a diverse group to bring this vision to life. Musically, Razia’s Shadow is delicious and interesting; instead of guitars dominating an album, strings and horns take center stage, thus creating the scene and tone of the musical. The true test of Razia’s Shadow will be its lasting power. Will this be something fans listen to over and over again, or is it just another “flavor of the week” album? Razia’s Shadow has the quality to maintain a stranglehold on your iPod rotation for weeks, and Dutton has proven he can create and orchestrate an album with the best of them. So curl up with your best pair of headphones and climb Razia, you’ll surely find your way out of the darkness and into the light.

Track Listing:
1. Genesis ft. Casey Crescenzo
2. The Missing Piece ft. Lizzie Huffman
3. Life Is Looking Up
4. The Spider and The Lamps ft. Max Bemis
5. Toba The Tura ft. Chris Conley
6. The Oracle ft. Danny Stevens
7. A Thousand Year, Minute-Long Intermission ft. Danny Stevens
8. The Exit ft. Brendon Urie and Dan Young
9. It’s True Love ft. Greta Salpeter
10. Meet The King ft. Greta Salpeter and Nic Newsham
11. Holy The Sea ft. John Gourley and Kris Ayana
12. Doctor Doctor ft. Shawn Harris
13. The End and The Beginning ft. Greta Salpeter and Brendon Urie
Produced by: Casey Bates

Forgive Durden are:
Thomas Dutton – vocals, guitar, bass, percussion, trumpet
Paul Dutton – other instruments
Rudy Gajadhar – drums

List of characters:
O The Scientist - Casey Crescenzo (The Dear Hunter)
Bawaba Brothers - John Baldwin Gourley (Portugal. The Man), Kris Anaya (An Angle)
Narrator - Aaron Weiss (mewithoutYou)
Gargul The Oracle - Danny Stevens (The Audition)
Toba the Tura - Chris Conley (Saves the Day)
Sangara - Daniel Young (This Providence)
Barayas the Spider - Max Bemis (Say Anything)
Princess Anhura - Greta Salpeter (The Hush Sound)
Pallis - Brendon Urie (Panic at the Disco)
King Malka - Nic Newsham (Gatsbys American Dream)
Doctor Dumaya - Shawn Harris (The Matches)
Nidria - Lizzie Huffman (Man in the Blue Van)
Adakias - Thomas Dutton (Forgive Durden)
Ahrima - Thomas Dutton (Forgive Durden)

Buy now @ http://ax.phobos.apple.com.edgesuite.net/images/badgeitunes61x15dark.gif (http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?i=291423198&id=291423169&s=143441)

Official Website (http://www.forgivedurden.com); Official Album Website (http://www.raziasshadow.com); Official Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/forgivedurden); Official AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/forgivedurden)

[Jamos4184]

Loved Wonderland. I've never been a big fan of musicals in any format, but I will definitely give this a shot. Half because of this review. Nice work, Drew.

[Danlol]

I was pretty impressed with this,

Aaron's narration really makes the album in a lot of ways, or at least the end.

Agree about the cheese in some of the lyrics, especially in parts of "The End and the Beginning" with the whole fight scene.

Overall though, i really enjoyed it. Something you can escape into for an hour.

[MyWorldEntire]

This is a very difficult album to review, I commend you Drew for doing an excellent job with it.

[Shieldyoureyes7]

I really enjoy this album, although I kind of find the story hard to get in to. I agree on the cheesy lyrics but (and this is totally generalized) traditionally, musical lyrics tend to be on the cheesier side, so I guess maybe he is just being true to form. Overall I am really impressed with what this guy pulled off, just thinking about trying to put this together makes my head ache. Great review, by the way, nice blending of casual and professional.

[Imperfektion]

Great job Drew. Excellent album and review.

[Spenny]

Nice review. I obviously think it deserves mid-90s, but to each their own.

[Spenny]

Oh and what did you think of the tracks that weren't mentioned Drew, like The Oracle, The Exit and Holy the Sea?

[Chris Fallon]

Ambitious and interesting, I love what Thomas did here and I think it will take a number of listens to completely take it all in. There is a lot here to consume as a listener.

Difficult album to review, so hats off to you for doing it well, Drew.

[drivingthru]

Ambitious and interesting, I love what Thomas did here and I think it will take a number of listens to completely take it all in. There is a lot here to consume as a listener.

Difficult album to review, so hats off to you for doing it well, Drew.

agreed. took me a good 6 or 7 listens to really get the story down, but the album is amazing.

best thing fueled by ramen has ever released?

[Ryzenfall]

Great review! Props again for taking this on.

(not sure if you care about these things but i think that should be "whether or not Dutton succesfully...")

Danny Stevens wasn't mentioned but I thought he did a pretty good job as well. And you are right, Greta really did stand out. I have this entire album stuck in my head and i couldn't be happier about it.

[Sic Transit Zeb]

Good review Drew, this one had to be tough to do.

[Sic Transit Zeb]

I was pretty impressed with this,

Aaron's narration really makes the album in a lot of ways, or at least the end.

Agree about the cheese in some of the lyrics, especially in parts of "The End and the Beginning" with the whole fight scene.

Overall though, i really enjoyed it. Something you can escape into for an hour.

mewithoutYou rules. Pumped for the new album.

[tait]

great review for a great album. it definitely took me multiple listens to get the story down but now i love it.

[Klatzke]

Good review. I was afraid it was going to come in with a high-90s score.

You did it justice.

[cereal4life]

What a whack album! An excellent review of what seems to be one crazy-ass album.

I think I'll check it.

[Anton Djamoos]

I think the lyrics score should have been much higher. Whether or not they're cheesy at points, the amount of literary techniques used is rather impressive, particularly the alliteration in "The End and the Beginning," as every character is perfectly coherent and nothing is lost, but it just sounds incredible.

[omgshe'sdead]

Aaron Weiss seems absolutely perfect for a part such as The Narrator I would imagine. Haven't listened to this, but while the concept seems pretentious, I guess it could work in a way. Should be an interesting listen, to say the least.

[saysmydoctor]

The lyrics of "Toba the Tura" make this a ten.

[Who's Chris?]

listening to them now... and i like.

[WhoSaidThat?]

'Atta boy, Drew!

[Drew Beringer]

Not a bad review at all, although you didn't go into too much detail about why this got 86% (a pretty low score for this site) and not 96%.
In most of my reviews I mainly focus on what I like and I briefly mention what I dislike about an album, unless it is something glaring or something that bothers me.
I think the lyrics score should have been much higher. Whether or not they're cheesy at points, the amount of literary techniques used is rather impressive, particularly the alliteration in "The End and the Beginning," as every character is perfectly coherent and nothing is lost, but it just sounds incredible.
If the character is coherent, doesn't that have to do more with vocal delivery than actual lyricism?
The lyrics of "Toba the Tura" make this a ten.

So because the lyrics are great in one song out of thirteen, they should get a 10?

[Nikkixface]

This was a great review.
I absolutely love this album.
I wish it came with a story book or something.
When I listened to it the first time I couldn't pull away without hearing it all the way through.
Dutton did an amazing job.

[John is a cult]

So Fucking Epic!!!

[Anton Djamoos]

In most of my reviews I mainly focus on what I like and I briefly mention what I dislike about an album, unless it is something glaring or something that bothers me.

If the character is coherent, doesn't that have to do more with vocal delivery than actual lyricism?


So because the lyrics are great in one song out of thirteen, they should get a 10?
A character can be incoherent if they're using big words just to use big words.

i.e. you can understand what Cedric Bixler-Zavala is saying in his music, but do you understand it?

[saysmydoctor]

In most of my reviews I mainly focus on what I like and I briefly mention what I dislike about an album, unless it is something glaring or something that bothers me.

If the character is coherent, doesn't that have to do more with vocal delivery than actual lyricism?


So because the lyrics are great in one song out of thirteen, they should get a 10?
You caught my seriousness, thank goodness. :rolleyes:

[berskyjr]

good review! Love it, and love forgive durden.

[thehereaway]

i think the 86% is spot on

[heatherg]

Great review,
I preordered this yesterday, i can't wait for my copy to arrive.

[Anton Djamoos]

I'm pretty sure this is going to be my album of the year. Unless something comes in the next two months that blows this out of the water, Razia is king.

[saysmydoctor]

Same, I'm in love with this album. Top 5 for sure.

[just.Starla.]

Great review. Now I really want this album.

[crit]

Good stuff Drew. Well said.

[threepunchjim]

Definitely fantastic, although the scoring is fair, imo. My only major gripe with it is that the Doctor just vanishes when Pallis arrives. I mean, he just brokered a deal to have the chick stay forever, and even with Adakias dead, he should still be an issue. Is this a plothole or am I missing something without the script in front of me?

All in all, Bemis and Greta steal the guest spotlights, and Aaron's narrating is money, but The Exit is hands down the hottest track with "You were meant to rule the Dark, and I was meant to see the sun!"

[Shakriel]

Great review and great album.

[Anton Djamoos]

Definitely fantastic, although the scoring is fair, imo. My only major gripe with it is that the Doctor just vanishes when Pallis arrives. I mean, he just brokered a deal to have the chick stay forever, and even with Adakias dead, he should still be an issue. Is this a plothole or am I missing something without the script in front of me?

All in all, Bemis and Greta steal the guest spotlights, and Aaron's narrating is money, but The Exit is hands down the hottest track with "You were meant to rule the Dark, and I was meant to see the sun!"
I agree with you 100% on all accounts aside from "The Exit" being "hands down" the hottest track. There are others up there.

[fluke182]

I agree with the score entirely. Pretty much exactly what I think about the whole thing. Incredibly ambitious but cheesy and hard to follow at times, overall though the album is a success. I personally really can't stand "Doctor, Doctor" or "Toba the Tura" though.

[The Boathouse]

I'm always irked by people saying that the Max Bemis song is one of the best on the album. I just don't feel that's the case. Though, he is the scene's little golden boy, so it makes sense. I love the album, and I think the score given is fair. I want SOMEBODY to note how good the seventh track is. There's an underappreciation for properly executed thick harmonies like that. Also: Holy the Sea, is in my opinion, the best fucking song on this record, with The Missing Piece coming in second. I suspect if Mr. Bemis sang on either, even if only for a moment, most people would agree.

[live.]

This was a perfect review. As great as this album is, it definitely deserves a lower score than In Defense of the Genre.

[hardpill]

A fun and interesting piece of art. But i think the artists could use a little more credibility than being referred to as "scene"

[tigertiger]

I'm always irked by people saying that the Max Bemis song is one of the best on the album. I just don't feel that's the case. Though, he is the scene's little golden boy, so it makes sense. I love the album, and I think the score given is fair. I want SOMEBODY to note how good the seventh track is. There's an underappreciation for properly executed thick harmonies like that. Also: Holy the Sea, is in my opinion, the best fucking song on this record, with The Missing Piece coming in second. I suspect if Mr. Bemis sang on either, even if only for a moment, most people would agree.

I pretty much totally agree. I just would switch your top two. Lizzie Huffman's vocals are absolutely heart-warming on The Missing Piece.

[Dirge07]

great review man. now to actually listen to it myself...

[itsjustadrian]

I'd like to know too what happened to the Doctor when Pallis comes back into the picture.

[elemenohpe]

this review sums up pretty much how i feel about this album. it's sad to say, but at heart i'm a fan of musicals... big time.

after hearing the hype about this record and the label of "A Musical" in the title... i was interested. so i checked out the record stream.

I really didn't feel Wonderland too much... but this record shows a lot of ambition and I can't help but respect that. I felt like the orchestration, instrumentation, and percussion (obviously) were nothing short of spectacular while the vocals were the obvious downfall of the record. I didn't follow the story too much (and have tried to avoid reading spoilers) but, I'm sure with more listens it will come to me. Most of the story seemed half assed to me. By using narration as explanations and plot devices rather than leaving separate songs to tell small stories that are part of a bigger arc (like a scene in a film... or in a Coheed & Cambria record ;-) ).

It felt too much like: here's an outline, now listen and interpret exactly what we're telling you to.

...but then again, it is a musical... and clarity of character circumstances is what carries a story between action and song coherently. ughh, this record perplexes me in how to judge the album compared to OTHER BANDS and with MUSICALS.

while I ponder over this record more let me take a chance to say great review Drew... '03 Generals for life.

[BigAl]

I'm excited to hear this.

[xdylanx]

it's called a concept album. i don't understand why it's called ": a musical"

[oh totes]

this review sums up pretty much how i feel about this album. it's sad to say, but at heart i'm a fan of musicals... big time.

after hearing the hype about this record and the label of "A Musical" in the title... i was interested. so i checked out the record stream.

I really didn't feel Wonderland too much... but this record shows a lot of ambition and I can't help but respect that. I felt like the orchestration, instrumentation, and percussion (obviously) were nothing short of spectacular while the vocals were the obvious downfall of the record. I didn't follow the story too much (and have tried to avoid reading spoilers) but, I'm sure with more listens it will come to me. Most of the story seemed half assed to me. By using narration as explanations and plot devices rather than leaving separate songs to tell small stories that are part of a bigger arc (like a scene in a film... or in a Coheed & Cambria record ;-) ).

It felt too much like: here's an outline, now listen and interpret exactly what we're telling you to.

...but then again, it is a musical... and clarity of character circumstances is what carries a story between action and song coherently. ughh, this record perplexes me in how to judge the album compared to OTHER BANDS and with MUSICALS.

while I ponder over this record more let me take a chance to say great review Drew... '03 Generals for life.

i kind of felt the same way about the narration at first. but then i thought about it and the record is only about an hour. most musicals are like an hour and a half to two hours right? i'm sure there may have been some budget issues or something and they couldnt have had MORE songs so they threw in narration to speed up the story a bit and cut out songs. just my thought on it.

[circasurviver]

Toba the Tura is great. Now I'm left wondering when Daybreak comes out?

[quesosauce]

well i listened to the album, and I must just not get the whole "musical" thing. I've never enjoyed theater, musicals and the like, but I really enjoy everything else Thomas has done. Overall I give the album a c+, it is what it is, and i recognize that it took a lot of balls to do a project of this size. That said, I still dont really feel that stories are told better through song, I like concept albums (like Wonderland), but you dont have to listen to them in order, every time. Plus its become known that Thomas wont be doing wonderland songs on tour the way they appeared on the CD, which i feel as a dis to the old fans, who may or may not like the new style. Oh well......

[elemenohpe]

i kind of felt the same way about the narration at first. but then i thought about it and the record is only about an hour. most musicals are like an hour and a half to two hours right? i'm sure there may have been some budget issues or something and they couldn't have had MORE songs so they threw in narration to speed up the story a bit and cut out songs. just my thought on it.

that's a good point. like i said towards the end of my last post... i've been thinking about it like a musical, without all the action. since there's no events between songs to tie the story together, narration is used to show actions that would go on between songs.

but, it still seems to guide the listener rather than leave it up to interpretation like a good "concept album" (anything Coheed has done, or even Fear Factory for that matter... same approach on their records). as i inferred earlier, that is what separates this album from a concept album and places it under "a musical".

regardless of this scrutinized classification, whether intended or not, it makes an ALBUM seem half-assed. Musicals aren't made to be ALBUMS, they're made to be pieces of art that transcend one medium (stage/performance) and draw from other, sometimes overexagerated, mediums (song/dance) to fully address a theme without simply stating it in one obvious monologue.

I could see this album being fully respected with a dvd of a performed PLAY musical. but as an ALBUM, it lacks.

[quesosauce]

it's called a concept album. i don't understand why it's called ": a musical"
this isnt a concept album, Durdens first full length was a concept album depicting the corruption and greed found in high society. This is a musical, with characters, narrative, scenes ect...

[ROOSEVELT]

I personally love the album. I do think that the Exit is the best song on the album. The vocals and the change in the actual music is just so interesting. Plus it introduces Adakias and Pallis, and the conflict that lives in that relationship. Also what their purpose is in the whole story is revealed in that song.

And you know what? I totally agree with everyone who said that the Spider and the Lamps was not the best song. I don't like that song all that much. Not one of my favorites on the album. And that's coming from someone who adores Say Anything.

I LOVED Doctor, Doctor. It's so outlandish and weird and COOL. It is ridiculous, but that's what makes it so much fun. I love listening to this song. Shawn Harris's vocals were PERFECT for this character/song.

Holy the Sea - I adore this track too. The vocals in here really bring the feeling of the situation out. I really hope that made sense. I love this part in the song: "Digging 'round the deep, only missing out on sleep. Chasing 'bout my head like the wolf that found the sheep...Don't go digging 'round there, you be slipping bit too much..." and then all the way to the end of that little section there. The rhythm used is so cool, brings your attention to it, makes you want to listen harder.

Ack that whole thing was all over the place. Sorry about that. Overall, I adore the album. I've been listening to it nonstop since I got my preorder in.

[oh totes]

that's a good point. like i said towards the end of my last post... i've been thinking about it like a musical, without all the action. since there's no events between songs to tie the story together, narration is used to show actions that would go on between songs.

but, it still seems to guide the listener rather than leave it up to interpretation like a good "concept album" (anything Coheed has done, or even Fear Factory for that matter... same approach on their records). as i inferred earlier, that is what separates this album from a concept album and places it under "a musical".

regardless of this scrutinized classification, whether intended or not, it makes an ALBUM seem half-assed. Musicals aren't made to be ALBUMS, they're made to be pieces of art that transcend one medium (stage/performance) and draw from other, sometimes overexagerated, mediums (song/dance) to fully address a theme without simply stating it in one obvious monologue.

I could see this album being fully respected with a dvd of a performed PLAY musical. but as an ALBUM, it lacks.

yeah i see what you mean. i picture the narrated parts as action as well.
i think he did awesome on this and i'd really like to see this performed.

[ship of fools]

By the end of the album, it got me graving a Forgive Durden ROCK song. I think that he should have released this under a different name. But it's an amazing album, in its own right. While the plot isn't original and it is certainly predictable, it is a fresh breath of air.

[quesosauce]

By the end of the album, it got me graving a Forgive Durden ROCK song. I think that he should have released this under a different name. But it's an amazing album, in its own right. While the plot isn't original and it is certainly predictable, it is a fresh breath of air.


Yes, i agree about the naming. I think Thomas hinted at that by saying its more like Forgive Durden presents: Razia's Shadow. But yea, i like rock music more than theater....

[oshyjay]

So I feel kinda dumb for asking, but does anyone know for sure how to pronounce the title?
Is it "Rah-zee-yah" or "Rah-zchah" like the tiger on Aladdin?

[acemoney0015]

this is great... i have been listening none stop i love lizzies voice and have sense i heard her with danger radio like 4 years ago.. this is one of my favorite things and original albums i have ever opened my ears to

[Romancebled]

excellent review. this might possibly be my album of the year.

i would have to say that The Missing Piece is my favorite track on this album. Lizzie Huffman's contribution blew me away.

[You Vandal]

What a terrible last line. Seriously. I cringed.

[williamsburg]

yeah, this review is pretty good.

[A_Rolling_Stone]

a difficult review. i really enjoy this album, but i also find myself asking what is the holding power of this album. like any story you can only hear it so many times before you find yourself exhausted of it. we will see, thanks for the review

[oshyjay]

I'm always irked by people saying that the Max Bemis song is one of the best on the album. I just don't feel that's the case. Though, he is the scene's little golden boy, so it makes sense. I love the album, and I think the score given is fair. I want SOMEBODY to note how good the seventh track is. There's an underappreciation for properly executed thick harmonies like that. Also: Holy the Sea, is in my opinion, the best fucking song on this record, with The Missing Piece coming in second. I suspect if Mr. Bemis sang on either, even if only for a moment, most people would agree.

Shhhh...master Tate said it was so.

[goodnewsgeorge]

definitely something that needs to be listened waaay more than once. beautifully done.
more bands should do this!

[Short-Lived]

Great review. Fantastic album. The tracks with Bemis, Conley, and Harris are my faves.

[abusedcat]

Anyone know how much this is at BestBuy?

[soundslikeredd]

review=average,kinda sucky, this album deserves alot more respect, personally....i mean, i loved wonderland too, but this album is like living in a story or fantasy...i love it, and btw, doctor doctor, hhmm...ridiculous? thats way far from wut i thought, and others...weird...u mustbe pretty picky, oh well, but the album is amazing... :)

[tom_q]

This album has made my month.

[patpratt]

i do not enjoy Greta's voice on this album. I think she does a great job with melodies, etc. but there are times when i want her to just belt it all out, and she won't. makes it uncomfortable to listen to.

[patpratt]

review=average,kinda sucky, this album deserves alot more respect, personally....i mean, i loved wonderland too, but this album is like living in a story or fantasy...i love it, and btw, doctor doctor, hhmm...ridiculous? thats way far from wut i thought, and others...weird...u mustbe pretty picky, oh well, but the album is amazing... :)

People would take you seriously if you used correct grammar and stop using ellipses every other word.

[rckstr29]

Honestly, I believe this has the lasting power to take it to great levels. For me, it's my AOTY. Depending on how well it takes off with the media, I think that this could very well be the next Black Parade.

[quesosauce]

Anyone know how much this is at BestBuy?

well its a cd, so i'd wager between 9 and 13 dollars....

[quesosauce]

Honestly, I believe this has the lasting power to take it to great levels. For me, it's my AOTY. Depending on how well it takes off with the media, I think that this could very well be the next Black Parade.
having never heard a single track from black parade, the simple fact that it isnt MCR makes it better than black parade

[John is a cult]

eww please. don't compare this to the black parade.
the black parade was good... but it is no Razia's Shadow

[hxchairstylist]

I've had this record for a month and for me, it truly passes the longevity test. I come back to it and listen to it daily. The album is such a unique endeavor and as you stated, it would not have as much "oomph" if not for the guest stars, but with them it more than holds its own. This album will definitely stay in my top rotation for albums released this year. Nice review.

[oshyjay]

Anyone know how much this is at BestBuy?

It says online 12.99, but I checked the availability of the Best Buy around me and it says it's unavailable at all of them. Lame.
I guess it's just that no one knows who Forgive Durden is, but at the same time I thought Fueled by Ramen had really good distribution.
Oh wells. =\

[elemenohpe]

Honestly, I believe this has the lasting power to take it to great levels. For me, it's my AOTY. Depending on how well it takes off with the media, I think that this could very well be the next Black Parade.

The Black Parade sucked... even for a "concept album". Razia's Shadow is a "musical". a whole different genre. I think this is better (as a whole) than The Black Parade is as a record (although 'Dead' was a sick SONG with a blazing solo that tore apart anything on Razia's Shadow musically).

[davidarechiga]

i will give this a second listen because of this review.

[oshyjay]

Oh, and one thing I was surprised that you didn't touch on Drew was how the drums were incorporated into every song.
With most of the musicals I've heard (seen? either way) the percussion instruments are only there for dynamics, crescendos, etc. so I found it really interesting (and extremely innovative!) that when they were writing the music the drums were always playing something to push the song forward.
I kind of got the feel that he was obsessed with musicals but at the same time didn't want to completely abandon his "roots" (for lack of a better term, hah) of rock music.
Thoughts?

[littlebeav]

Great review. Amazingly fresh album. I'm still taking it in. So glad I got the Pre-Order, it's been playing non stop for a week.

[katieissweet]

Excellent review. Excellent CD.

[sweetforever]

Very well written, I've only listened once, so I'm going to need to give it a few more spins to take it all in.

[genericmadness]

It's like The Dear Hunter, without the enjoyment

[fluke182]

I feel like I'm the only person who thinks that "Life is Looking Up" has single written all over it. No song really fits the perfect niche for single, but it's a great track that really captures the spirit of the album. I love that it's just Thomas and Aaron too.

[Scott Weber]

it's called a concept album. i don't understand why it's called ": a musical"
because it's a musical.

[Romancebled]

I feel like I'm the only person who thinks that "Life is Looking Up" has single written all over it. No song really fits the perfect niche for single, but it's a great track that really captures the spirit of the album. I love that it's just Thomas and Aaron too.

although i really enjoy this track, i thought it was one of the weaker tracks on the album.

[St0f]

Great review, I probably had way too high expections for Max Bemis' track. He should've gone a little crazier.

I expected it to be more like "Doctor, Doctor", which I think is the track that stands out the most after few listens. I'm sure the rest will becomes just as important over the next couples of listens.

[11:11]

Should be a little higher in my opinion, but a good review nonetheless.

[emoishardcore]

i loved what he did but i wouldve loved like a EP in between of just songs like wonderland. also, i went to a live show of his recently, and i admit, it did not translate live, but that could've been because it just started and they havent quite gotten the live show down yet. but as much as i enjoy this album, i still mess the "get up and move" feeling I got from wonderland.

[mcdizzle88]

Great review. Can't imagine it was an easy album to write about, so major props =)
I need to listen to this more thoroughly. Two quick listens when they started streaming it hasn't done it justice, I need to not be distracted while listening so I can take it all in.


Funny that you should mention Tim Burton... Everytime I see Shawn Harris I think of a Tim Burton movie, no joke. Not quite sure why, but the video for "Salty Eyes" definitely didn't stop me from making this connection haha.

[ms_fairypants]

i love this album

[livethruthisltr]

Excellent review.. Love this album

Someone should phone Tim Burton and tell him about an amazing movie idea.....
Watching this as a movie by him.. would probably explode my brain.

[fluke182]

although i really enjoy this track, i thought it was one of the weaker tracks on the album.
I don't think it's a top track either, but I really do feel it could exist as a single better than others. Most of them aren't exactly going to be radio friendly, and I was thinking purely from an expanding outside of the Absolute Punk scene popularity of the album. It's a great album and deserves recognition, but I think it will struggle to gain mainstream appeal even with the bountiful guest stars.

[thursday8605]

i seem to be the only person on this site who doesnt like this album.

[p, FRY]

oh wait, i thought the dear hunter already did a musical, like...2years ago.

fantastic album however.

[cscwell107]

My favorite track is "The Missing Piece". Lizzie Huffman is one of the best female vocalists out there. Overall I would probably have given it an 89. I would bump the lyrics and vocals up a little more.

[Schmidty Says]

Excellent review. Can't wait to hear this album.

[kylestarr]

Since the leak, the album has not stopped spinning on my front. It gets better and better with each listen. Good review. A note to add to it (and this may be why it did not hit in the 90s) is that there isn't a ton of variation on the record. the most variance comes at "Doctor, Doctor" and "Holy the Sea" as far as the mood and the sound is concerned.

[TMacleod]

I feel like I'm the only person who thinks that "Life is Looking Up" has single written all over it. No song really fits the perfect niche for single, but it's a great track that really captures the spirit of the album. I love that it's just Thomas and Aaron too.

I definitely agree with you, after a few listens this has easily become my favorite track next to genesis (i'm a sucker for casey crescenzo's voice). my only problem with it is that it feels/sounds almost too climatic and powerful so early in the album/musical. i feel this song, sans lyrics, would sound more appropriate as a final track, but maybe that's just me.

[Klatzke]

People would take you seriously if you used correct grammar and stop using ellipses every other word.
Commas...?

[Debut_Fin]

urie sounds better on here than he does on panic songs
they should write more interesting melodies to show his voice off

[xdylanx]

because it's a musical.

musicals are visual. at best you could call it the soundtrack.

[Scott Weber]

musicals are visual. at best you could call it the soundtrack.
says who? and it's not a soundtrack if there's no performance. it is what it is, an audio musical.

[tommy's ghost]

listening to it at this very moment. i must say i'm impressed... i might finally have a new album to obsess and fawn over. huzzah!

[Sic Transit Zeb]

i always considered this more of a concept album than a musical, but I really don't care about those terms that much

[AndrewCloer]

i never payed attention to this until i read this review.

so i downloaded the cd. and holy crap this thing is amazing.

i'm not really into musicals at all.

but i loved this.

[Samc1803]

I'm always irked by people saying that the Max Bemis song is one of the best on the album. I just don't feel that's the case. Though, he is the scene's little golden boy, so it makes sense. I love the album, and I think the score given is fair. I want SOMEBODY to note how good the seventh track is. There's an underappreciation for properly executed thick harmonies like that. Also: Holy the Sea, is in my opinion, the best fucking song on this record, with The Missing Piece coming in second. I suspect if Mr. Bemis sang on either, even if only for a moment, most people would agree.

Amen, brother. Bemis' voice does fit Barayas perfectly, but then again, every other character works just as well.
But, like you said, I totally love Holy The Sea, and Lizzie's voice on The Missing Piece is amazing.

[Samc1803]

i seem to be the only person on this site who doesnt like this album.

Shun the nonbeliever. Shuuuun.

[Freeride]

What the fuck?!?!

The review was pretty fair but "Doctor Doctor" was far from rediculous, it had its place, the crazy almost evil character was set perfectly and the song executed brilliantly. Just because he brought a character to life and the character was somewhat crazy and didnt have a "normal" voice doesnt make it rediculous, it makes it creative.

You probably thought Smeagal in lord of the rings was rediculous aswell i guess.....

oh, and lyrics deserve higher, in this case its not how metaphoric the lyrcis are (which these days seem to get lyricsa a high score) or how deep they are but its about how they made the story flow and how easy it made it to understand, this isnt your normal album.

This cd all up deserve atleast a 9, its album of the year for sure and we have had some pretty good albums this year.

[Rest_Easy]

I'm always irked by people saying that the Max Bemis song is one of the best on the album. I just don't feel that's the case. Though, he is the scene's little golden boy, so it makes sense. I love the album, and I think the score given is fair. I want SOMEBODY to note how good the seventh track is. There's an underappreciation for properly executed thick harmonies like that. Also: Holy the Sea, is in my opinion, the best fucking song on this record, with The Missing Piece coming in second. I suspect if Mr. Bemis sang on either, even if only for a moment, most people would agree.

ha I especially agree with the Max Bemis part. There is a serious hard-on in the absolutepunk community for anything Bemis related.

I love this album. I've enjoyed everything Forgive Durden until this day and I hope that continues in future releases. He has generally wonderful lyrics and as Drew pointed out, and is glaringly obvious at times, there are some cringe-worthy corny lines. Still he more than makes up for it.

The review was ok for me. It didn't really capture the album in the way the album has captured me and that's what I look for in reading reviews of albums I have already listened too. Else I look for a sense of awe in the reviewer. The greater the awe the more I want to rush out and grab the album to gain that same experience.

[gr33ndayfr3ak]

I planned on going to pick this up right after school today and I was peeing my pants with excitement throughout the day.
After school I went to Barnes and Noble. Then Border's. Then Wal-Mart. Then a local record store.
None of them had it.

I almost strated crying.

I cannot wait any longer to listen to this!!

[zubinmoosa]

Great review. Amazing album.

[jeremypeele]

i'm curious as to how a music video will be made, i'm sure it would be pretty sweet

[J Me]

loving this album. very clever of dutton to take such a challenge and turn it into something very special

[Danlol]

What the fuck?!?!

The review was pretty fair but "Doctor Doctor" was far from rediculous, it had its place, the crazy almost evil character was set perfectly and the song executed brilliantly. Just because he brought a character to life and the character was somewhat crazy and didnt have a "normal" voice doesnt make it rediculous, it makes it creative.

You probably thought Smeagal in lord of the rings was rediculous aswell i guess.....

oh, and lyrics deserve higher, in this case its not how metaphoric the lyrcis are (which these days seem to get lyricsa a high score) or how deep they are but its about how they made the story flow and how easy it made it to understand, this isnt your normal album.

This cd all up deserve atleast a 9, its album of the year for sure and we have had some pretty good albums this year.

You should note that the review said the voice was well suited for the role. I think Shawn Harris transformed into the character well. I just think its a fairly weak song.

The lyric score isnt about metaphor, that would be ridiculous in a musical where you are trying to follow the story, there are just points where the choice of words are a little cheesy.

[Shrillex]

good review makes me want to buy it

[tacosunited]

danny steven's voice is really powerful in his songs. i was quite impressed.

[emkvetwin]

just downloaded, i'm loving "Genesis" so far. really does have an epic feel. from the clips i liked Urie's and Dutton's the best, so let's see what happens!

and, nice review, sir.

[Keagan Ilvonen]

Great job Drew, tough album to write a review for. I agree with the 86%, justifies this piece.

[Freeride]

You should note that the review said the voice was well suited for the role. I think Shawn Harris transformed into the character well. I just think its a fairly weak song.

The lyric score isnt about metaphor, that would be ridiculous in a musical where you are trying to follow the story, there are just points where the choice of words are a little cheesy.

How is it weak, you cant just say its a weak song without elaborating, I dont see anything weak about it.

As for the lyrics being cheesy, I could only find a select few that could be taken as cheesy and should no way drop lyrics down to a 7, then again this is the same guy who gave champion by The Audition a pretty bad review aswell, apparently the lyrics were bad in Champion aswell......

[Goat01]

Once I heard about this record, I kinda had a feeling Shawn Harris would somehow be a part of it.
it just sounds like something he'd do.

[genericmadness]

i seem to be the only person on this site who doesnt like this album.

not at all... you must have missed my input

It's like The Dear Hunter, without the enjoyment

[GuitarR0cker1]

Great review, I am going to have to check this out.

[thursday8605]

not at all... you must have missed my input

i now understand haha. im glad to have a friend. there is just something about this i cant get into

[jacksteve111]

i would be totally down to see this on like a dvd or something, i can picture it almost how the gorillaz is drawn or on screen. the characters that are drawn would be so cool watching in animation, and maybe even making it into a full story type thing.

[Heroin Robot]

You have some grammatical errors in this review.

[buried_]

her turn with former Gatsby’s American Dream vocalist Nic Newsham


Former? Did he leave gatsby's?

[Scott Weber]

Former? Did he leave gatsby's?
gatsbys hasn't been a band for like 2 years, dude.

[The Personist]

What the fuck?!?!

The review was pretty fair but "Doctor Doctor" was far from rediculous, it had its place, the crazy almost evil character was set perfectly and the song executed brilliantly. Just because he brought a character to life and the character was somewhat crazy and didnt have a "normal" voice doesnt make it rediculous, it makes it creative.

You probably thought Smeagal in lord of the rings was rediculous aswell i guess.....

oh, and lyrics deserve higher, in this case its not how metaphoric the lyrcis are (which these days seem to get lyricsa a high score) or how deep they are but its about how they made the story flow and how easy it made it to understand, this isnt your normal album.

This cd all up deserve atleast a 9, its album of the year for sure and we have had some pretty good albums this year.

Stories can have metaphors in them; in fact, I would argue that this one does. I think some of the lyrics that get better scores--like Say Anything, which involves some of my favorite lyrics--aren't so much metaphorical as they are interesting and new takes on emotions. The allegory in this story is pretty clear. Also, ridiculous has an i, not an e.

[ZeroGravity107]

Picked this up today, listened to it a couple times. I like it a lot but I'm still trying to catch the full drift of the story.

[Freeride]

Stories can have metaphors in them; in fact, I would argue that this one does. I think some of the lyrics that get better scores--like Say Anything, which involves some of my favorite lyrics--aren't so much metaphorical as they are interesting and new takes on emotions. The allegory in this story is pretty clear. Also, ridiculous has an i, not an e.

Not what I was trying to say though, i was trying to say it doesnt need them to be good lyrics, not having metaphors doesnt make it bad. I love say anythings metaphors as much as the next guy but I dont feel this story needed them.

Thanks for the spell check aswell.

[*crying stars*]

Good review, Drew. I agree with everyone else that it would have been a difficult album to review.

That being said, I really like this album and am glad how it turned out.

[geebee889]

I've heard good things about this, I'm definitely going to pick it up this week. Plus I'm a musical fan. What can I say? I'm a theatre major. :)

[fadedmemories]

Forgive Durden has achieved Brand New/Say Anything status in this web site

[wall e]

Solid solid solid solid solid solid solid album.
Finally I can dig my old Forgive Durden shirt out from the bottom of my dresser.

[John is a cult]

so...
i bought the album and thought it would come with the lyrics.. but it didnt......
and it says i can go to www.raziasshadow.com/script download and get it, but that doesnt work.

fix anyone?

[rckstr29]

The Black Parade sucked... even for a "concept album". Razia's Shadow is a "musical". a whole different genre. I think this is better (as a whole) than The Black Parade is as a record (although 'Dead' was a sick SONG with a blazing solo that tore apart anything on Razia's Shadow musically).

Ya, I was talking more about the success of The Black Parade than the quality.

[Freeride]

so...
i bought the album and thought it would come with the lyrics.. but it didnt......
and it says i can go to www.raziasshadow.com/script (http://www.raziasshadow.com/script) download and get it, but that doesnt work.

fix anyone?

songmeanings.net has them all up, they are all pretty accurate aswell

[Jason Tate]

Forgive Durden has achieved Brand New/Say Anything status in this web site
Not quite.

[genericmadness]

i now understand haha. im glad to have a friend. there is just something about this i cant get into

I know what you mean. The chords, the melodies, they do absolutely nothing for me.

[Iwudstilldie4u]

I feel like Danny, Chris, and Brendan sound better in this than in their own projects
Casey is good no matter where he is
But I feel like Greta wasn't able to sing to her full potential here

I agree with the score completely though

[mikemosh]

I know what you mean. The chords the melodies, they do absolutely nothing for me.

i don't really care for too much of it either.

[Freeride]

i don't really care for too much of it either.
I actually feel sorry for those who are unable to appreciate how much of a masterpiece this cd really is.

Still.....I think Act II: The Meaning of, and all things regarding Ms. Leading is better and want Act III so fucken baaaaaaaaaaaad

[buried_]

gatsbys hasn't been a band for like 2 years, dude.

oh jesus....i am such a fake for not knowing...such a sham i am....

[panicbxmb]

I'm always irked by people saying that the Max Bemis song is one of the best on the album. I just don't feel that's the case. Though, he is the scene's little golden boy, so it makes sense. I love the album, and I think the score given is fair. I want SOMEBODY to note how good the seventh track is. There's an underappreciation for properly executed thick harmonies like that. Also: Holy the Sea, is in my opinion, the best fucking song on this record, with The Missing Piece coming in second. I suspect if Mr. Bemis sang on either, even if only for a moment, most people would agree.


"Holy The Sea", "The End and the Beginning", and "Toba The Tura" are my favorite songs.... Say Anything is one of my favorite bands, but his song isn't even nearly the best one here.

[jimmyeatblink]

I don't really look at this as an album with individual songs or tracks, So I don't have a favourite. I just like the thing as a whole. Good review though.

[fadedmemories]

I feel like Danny, Chris, and Brendan sound better in this than in their own projects
Casey is good no matter where he is
But I feel like Greta wasn't able to sing to her full potential here

I agree with the score completely though
I don't agree with what you said about those two, but I completely agree with everything else

[LastDeclaration]

Forgive Durden has achieved Brand New/Say Anything status in this web site

Nah, they're still second-tier, more like Lydia status.

[Thomas Balkcom]

Great review, I love love love this album, Thomas Dutton seriously has an incredible voice and vision. I am glad to see that Forgive Durden was able to remain existent and get some notice. I've been waiting for a band to make a "rock opera" and it finally happened, and I could not be any more happy with it.

86% is on target

[John is a cult]

Nah, they're still second-tier, more like Lydia status.

am i the only one who HATES lydia?

[Scott Weber]

am i the only one who HATES lydia?
Nope.

[IAmConjuringYou]

Wow, I was expecting The '59 Sound to be album of the year for me, but this has blown me away. To be honest, I just got it for the Max and Chris guest spots, but it's all awesome.

My favorite song is definitely The Spider and the Lamps, because it's the part of the story where Ahrima just fucks everything up.

A complaint of mine though, like mentioned earlier, is that it never says what happens to the Doctor.

[BalancingacT]

What a terrible last line. Seriously. I cringed.
It's a musical. Not a commentary on life.

[BalancingacT]

I couldn't understand why everyone was complaining about not deciphering the story line, seeing as how I was sucked into it by the end of track 3.

I forgot I preordered the album, got the full script unlike all you norms, and am therefore a superior human being...:irule:

[siljalevanen]

Wow. I have to say this album blew me away. Within the first day I was sucked in.. and it only got better and better as I listened. Haha it was like a book on tape. I was sucked in. Definitely album of the year for me. So much better than I expected. I love how all of the guest artists are so distinct. I had no idea how they'd pull this off live, but they did a dang good job when I saw them last night.

Hats off to ya Thomas, hats off.

[siljalevanen]

and I do agree.. getting the version with the script is so worth it. Just reading along as you listen. Definitely an album you have to devote your time to and actually sit down and listen all the way through.

[BalancingacT]

Wow. I have to say this album blew me away. Within the first day I was sucked in.. and it only got better and better as I listened. Haha it was like a book on tape. I was sucked in. Definitely album of the year for me. So much better than I expected. I love how all of the guest artists are so distinct. I had no idea how they'd pull this off live, but they did a dang good job when I saw them last night.

Hats off to ya Thomas, hats off.
Perfect description.
and I do agree.. getting the version with the script is so worth it. Just reading along as you listen. Definitely an album you have to devote your time to and actually sit down and listen all the way through.
That's what I did. I think I can see why people are dissenting over it when they haven't, and I don't expect most people to actually sit through it the way I did.

[siljalevanen]

Perfect description.

That's what I did. I think I can see why people are dissenting over it when they haven't, and I don't expect most people to actually sit through it the way I did.

Yeah.. and it's a shame really. You can't fully appreciate what this album is unless you do sit down and listen all the way through. I did that first while driving, haha thus the book on tape thing, and I just couldn't get enough. Was hanging on every word, waiting to see where the story would turn next.. but maybe I'm just a dork. Who knows! I just really want to see if it evolves into anything else, if someone decides to actually do some kind of visual media after it.

[siljalevanen]

It's funny. My sister was in the car with me and was like mehhh.. but by the time we had been driving for a while and she got buried in the story, she had to know where to get herself a copy. You can't really judge this album by listening to one or even a few songs.

[Sic Transit Zeb]

Yeah.. and it's a shame really. You can't fully appreciate what this album is unless you do sit down and listen all the way through. I did that first while driving, haha thus the book on tape thing, and I just couldn't get enough. Was hanging on every word, waiting to see where the story would turn next.. but maybe I'm just a dork. Who knows! I just really want to see if it evolves into anything else, if someone decides to actually do some kind of visual media after it.

sounds like you like it a lot.

It's pretty damn good but I still have my reservations...idk why. Just seems...incomplete, I guess.

[siljalevanen]

sounds like you like it a lot.

It's pretty damn good but I still have my reservations...idk why. Just seems...incomplete, I guess.

Yeah I can understand that. I do wish there was a little more at the end.. kinda wraps up and ends fast. But I think it was just so well crafted.

[BalancingacT]

Yeah.. and it's a shame really. You can't fully appreciate what this album is unless you do sit down and listen all the way through. I did that first while driving, haha thus the book on tape thing, and I just couldn't get enough. Was hanging on every word, waiting to see where the story would turn next.. but maybe I'm just a dork. Who knows! I just really want to see if it evolves into anything else, if someone decides to actually do some kind of visual media after it.
Yeah, I was engrossed in the story as soon as I had enough background info to figure things out (about song 3). I just sat there, nose in script, for the duration, waiting to see what would happen to Ahrima and Adakias+Anhura. But yeah, wish the ending had been better. Didn't explain quite how the prophecy fulfilling united the two worlds, and the obvious Dr. Dumaya situation.

[siljalevanen]

Yeah, I was engrossed in the story as soon as I had enough background info to figure things out (about song 3). I just sat there, nose in script, for the duration, waiting to see what would happen to Ahrima and Adakias+Anhura. But yeah, wish the ending had been better. Didn't explain quite how the prophecy fulfilling united the two worlds, and the obvious Dr. Dumaya situation.

Yeah I wanted to find out what happened to that crazy man.. [shawn did such a good job]. Felt kind of rushed at the end, not to mention it was sad! But I could never do anything like it, so I'm not really in any place to judge or critique. I'm impressed overall.

[warninglabel]

the only problem i have with this album is that i can't just listen to one song at a time. i have to start at the beginning and go alllll the way to the end. like a movie or somethin.

[dan.is.empire]

i don't know why everyone's so down on the doctor track. it's one of my favorites on the album and shawn does an awesome job at grabbing my attention.

[absolutecrunnk]

weird concept album

[BalancingacT]

Yeah I wanted to find out what happened to that crazy man.. [shawn did such a good job]. Felt kind of rushed at the end, not to mention it was sad! But I could never do anything like it, so I'm not really in any place to judge or critique. I'm impressed overall.

i don't know why everyone's so down on the doctor track. it's one of my favorites on the album and shawn does an awesome job at grabbing my attention.

My friend, who I have more musical respect for than myself, hated this song. I wept uncontrollably for days after he said that. I think Shawn Harris did a phenomenal job with the good doctor's voice.

[youwithoutMe]

i haven't heard it yet, i might check it out now since the review is good. but overall, i never got into this band so i probably won't be that impressed

[Rest_Easy]

yeah I love having the script too. It's always funny preordering because I tend to forget the release dates and when I got this in the mail I was so excited.

[siljalevanen]

i haven't heard it yet, i might check it out now since the review is good. but overall, i never got into this band so i probably won't be that impressed

I dunno.. I had never even listened to this band before this, so not sure it has anything to do with being biased towards the band. It was mostly done by the lead singer anyways, but he just decided to still put it under the band's name.

[the color theft]

and I do agree.. getting the version with the script is so worth it. Just reading along as you listen. Definitely an album you have to devote your time to and actually sit down and listen all the way through.

yeah its absolutely an album you should listen to with headphones and read along with the script. i finally got around to doing that and i have to say its an incredible accomplishment. i really enjoyed it...more than i thought i would.

[runningohfive]

i like this album a lot, it's an excellent collaboration with other musicians. my favorite song is The Spider and The Lamps.

[Holly HoX!]

Toba the Tura is AWESOME!

[cassusriff]

I love the album... but I come from a musical background... Dutton really meshes the style of the scene with the stylings of musicals. I find the whole album incredible... and it's amazing to hear how all these people in "rock" bands characterize their parts so well.

Easily AOTY for me. I can't stop listening to it.

My favorite track is "The Missing Piece" A beautiful duet with some really romantic (somewhat cheesy) lyrics.

[Wez1212Yes]

Good lyrics, terrible music.

[mattkinahan]

Oh man, this album... let me just say if you haven't heard it... do so... NOW.

[zubinmoosa]

Good lyrics, terrible music.
... I would have to disagree with you there.

[smogs]

I just listened to this CD for the first time and it's fabulous. I didn't really expect to like it, but it's definitely distracting me from my farsi homework. I can't just sit back and idly listen, I'm compelled to listen to the story and get involved. Everyone who worked on this did a fantastic job - the music, the vocals, the story, the production. It's all wonderful.

Great review, too.

[silentjslivjak]

just wow. i was really ready to not-like this record. i guess it is just my preconceived notion of who can or cannot write a successful musical.

instead, i really really enjoyed it.

unfortunately, i dunno how they'd do this live (and give it justice). i guess they would just use backing tracks???

[zubinmoosa]

just wow. i was really ready to not-like this record. i guess it is just my preconceived notion of who can or cannot write a successful musical.

instead, i really really enjoyed it.

unfortunately, i dunno how they'd do this live (and give it justice). i guess they would just use backing tracks???
The have both a touring male and female vocalist that fills in the guest's parts live.

[anomaly519]

This was my first exposure to this band. I've been meaning to check them out for awhile now and after all the buzz around this album I decided to check it out. I really enjoyed it. Some of the lyrics are a little cheesy but like it was said, a lot of lyrics in musicals are cheesy. The story is very imaginative and original and the overall message is very good. Musically it is very pleasing. I looks forward to getting into this album/band more.

[Jamos4184]

I was blown away by Lizzie Huffman's performance on "The Missing Piece".

[c_rob2700]

Whoever Lizzie Huffman is, wow, her voice is beautiful

[eHerbieInRevers]

Amazing album, really. The review does a fairly good job of capturing the goodness that I received from the album but lands just shy of the score I believe it deserved. The two tracks that I can't get enough of, that aren't very much higher than the rest of the songs, are The Missing Piece and Toba the Tura.

The variety in the album is amazing to me. The only complaint about variety is that Thomas didn't end up creating a full track with the same feel as the instruments during the outro/narration of It's True Love and Meet The King. I would've loved that.

Definitely an album that no one should listen to just once. Hell, I'm a firm believer that you really have to sit down, with the lyrics and listen to the album chronologically and let yourself dive into the story.

The ending is, unfortunately, a tad rushed, in my opinion. It's fine with me because I always imagine my own fillers to the holes left at the end. I'm pretty sure I'm going to be doing some artistic translations of the album. Maybe some animations or something. Should be interesting.

Would like to say, one more time, that this is an amazing album. AotY for me as well.

[LuckyBlackCat13]

I have to applaud you on how well you explained the premises of this album so well, since I've tried to give my family/friends the gist of it and have failed to find the words. You did an excellent job, so kudos on that ;D

On another note, I am a tad sad you didn't review "The Oracle" or "The Exit" (personally I don't mind you skipping over "Holy the Sea" because...well I just didn't like that one so much. The instruments were splendid but the vocals....meh. At least it moves the story along). Those two were nicely done, since

The Oracle- Had all those different voices and characteristics to them, plus the slightly 'dreamy' feel to it

The Exit- Showed a good version of the dark side of this world plus the singers did a good job to put some emotion into their singing :D

Ah well, it was your review

I don't see why Doctor Doctor is getting so many complaints though :/ I guess if you do think about it, it IS ridiculous, but it's so much full of life and animation how can you not just love it? Especially since Shawn did a brilliant job on creating Doctor Dumaya's voice (bollcks does it hurt trying to sing his part D8; ) And for the cheesy comment? It’s true, the words can be a tad on the corney side, but like a commenter here said it is a musical, and they’re pretty cornball themselves sometimes. But all in all the whole story is well paced (for only 13 songs) and the lines are usually nicely said.


All in all, great review and to answer the whole "listen to it over and over" question? That's a definite YES. I've been listening to this album for.... 3 week straight now? The songs don't get old (since they all hold their own personalities) and the instrumental parts of it all is just breath taking at points. C:

[Sonya90909]

Okay I think I am finally going to check this out after all thats been said here.

On a side note check out this:
http://www.fueledbyramen.com/streetteam/img/44/4/limited_vinyl468-lrg.gif

[MJ62992]

This is extremely corny with the talking and shit but good songs though.

[stereokiller]

This is extremely corny with the talking and shit but good songs though.
Talking and shit?

Dude, if you remove the lyrics and <I>shit</I>, this wouldn't be anything else other than a catchy album of unique songs without meaning at all. And that's easy to find. Go to a nearby store under the Generic Bands section.

aside, Yes. Razia's Shadow is marvelous. I'm slowly getting the whole story of the album. It's amazing that Dutton crafted it well enough that a story that huge could be fitted into one measly hour of pure earcandy.

[stereokiller]

Good lyrics, terrible music.
This is extremely corny with the talking and shit but good songs though.

This is def the light and dark Thomas Dutton was talking about.

[MJ62992]

Talking and shit?

Dude, if you remove the lyrics and <I>shit</I>, this wouldn't be anything else other than a catchy album of unique songs without meaning at all. And that's easy to find. Go to a nearby store under the Generic Bands section.

aside, Yes. Razia's Shadow is marvelous. I'm slowly getting the whole story of the album. It's amazing that Dutton crafted it well enough that a story that huge could be fitted into one measly hour of pure earcandy.
I respect the story but the narrator is just corny as hell.

[decaying1713]

agreed. took me a good 6 or 7 listens to really get the story down, but the album is amazing.

best thing fueled by ramen has ever released?
????? Hm...for a huge Panic fan I'm really stretched to say A Fever You Can't Sweat Out was, but...
I think this was the best album FBR has released.

[peytonpanic!]

i had never even heard of forgive durden before this and it blew me away.:zoom:

[peytonpanic!]

Awesome review. . u made me listen2 it.

[Inkter]

Most of the appeal in this album comes from the guest vocals. Some of them MAX BEMIS are really, really cool.

I'd be more than happy to keep buying albums that make interesting use of guest vocalists from bands that wouldn't ordinarily do that sound.

[Scrubanizer]

Thought id give this a fresh take, a year sense the most recent post.

Well, seeing as the album came out two years ago, it has certainly passed the longevity test for me! It is an album that YOU ABSOLUTLEY MUST SIT DOWN AND LISTEN TO ALL THE WAY THROUGH. To not do so would really ruin the experience for you.

I remember when i listened to it the 2nd time through, everything just kinda clicked and suddenly this became one of my top 5 albums. Its such a breath of fresh air, and somehow the story has not gotten stale.

I think the fact that it is SO generic actually helps it. You can interpret it a little differently every time because it is so broad and generic, i hope that makes sense.

Fantastic album, fun listen every time.

Oh, and good review.

[FallOutWeeze]

Thought id give this a fresh take, a year sense the most recent post.

Well, seeing as the album came out two years ago, it has certainly passed the longevity test for me! It is an album that YOU ABSOLUTLEY MUST SIT DOWN AND LISTEN TO ALL THE WAY THROUGH. To not do so would really ruin the experience for you.

I remember when i listened to it the 2nd time through, everything just kinda clicked and suddenly this became one of my top 5 albums. Its such a breath of fresh air, and somehow the story has not gotten stale.

I think the fact that it is SO generic actually helps it. You can interpret it a little differently every time because it is so broad and generic, i hope that makes sense.

Fantastic album, fun listen every time.

Oh, and good review.

I agree with it you. It has in fact, stood the test of time. However it is still underrated which sucks.