Release Date: Nov 6, 2007
Label: Geffen
Genres: Alternative Rock
Number Of Tracks: 12
Taking a cue from '80s synth rock, Angels & Airwaves deliver rock with a dance-oriented twist on I-Empire.
I-EmpireFeatured review by: UG Team, on november 19, 2007 5 of 6 people found this review helpful
Sound: The musicians in Angels & Airwaves may all have gotten their start in various punk bands, but you’d be hard pressed to hear those roots on their latest album I-Empire. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, particularly if you don’t mind atmospheric, synth-driven songs that often build up to a crescendo. I-Empire does feature quite a few nicely written, beautifully produced tracks, but the verdict is still out if the mellow vibe behind it all will click with listeners.
Vocalist/guitarist Tom DeLonge has taken another huge step away from his days in Blink 182, with the new album I-Empire taking a more dramatic, grandiose feel than what he’s written in the past. The latest record bounces between having a U2-eque feel and sounding like it could come straight out of the '80s. It does seem like DeLonge was heavily influenced by The Edge during the main guitar line in “Love Like Rockets,” and that anti-riff stance is heard throughout much of the album. Every instrument works as a unit during the album, and only the synth parts really jump to the surface.
In a song like “True Love,” the effects-heavy intro does feel like one of the many club hits of the '80s. The band should actually be commended for not being afraid to add a dance-oriented feel to their blend of rock. The parts where DeLonge sings do get a bit repetitive here and there because of his tendency to phrase things in only one style, but there is enough going on otherwise to keep the momentum up. There are a few instrumental interludes that are primarily synth-based, and those moments are actually some of the most inspired on the CD. At times the song that follows the interlude doesn’t quite live up to the instrumental portion, unfortunately. “Jumping Rooftops” is an interlude that features a very cool line that sounds a bit like a computer, while the following vocal track “Rite Of Spring” turns into a song you might expect to hear on a teen TV drama.
DeLonge had mentioned in interviews that the latest record would be more stripped down than the band’s debut We Don’t Need To Whisper, and in general that’s an accurate statement. That doesn’t mean that you won’t get plenty of reverb and vocal effects to enhance the mood of the record. The digital help never gets too distracting, and it actually makes the songs better in a lot of cases. There are quite a few instances where there’s a sample-heavy beginning, and that may turn off those of who prefer for the guitar to have more of a presence. Angels & Airwaves does walk a fine line between the pop and rock worlds, and that may turn off rock purists. // 8
Lyrics and Singing: The lyrical content on I-Empire has a very introspective feel to it, with most of the songs having a positive message in the end. The band delves a lot into personal feeling, but the song “Secret Crowds” gets a tad deeper. DeLonge sings, “If I had my own world; I'd love it for all that's inside it; There'd be no more wars, death or riots.” Those particular lyrics might be a bit too much for some, but in general the songs on I-Empire are expressed in a more subtle, heartfelt way. // 8
Impression: There are a lot of interesting ideas happening on I-Empire, and the album should be listened to as a whole to get the full experience. The songs set more of a mood than anything, and the band did an excellent job of making all of the instruments melt into one another. The keyboards and sampling do stand out more than anything, so if you’re anti-synthesizer, I-Empire is not the album for you. To Angels & Airwaves’ credit, they never go overboard with the effects and they are usually for the good of the song. // 8
I-Empire
Reviewed by:
pyroyam, on november 19, 2007 4 of 5 people found this review helpful
Sound: If you are a fan of the sound on Angels & Airwaves first album released in 2006 titled "We Don't Need To Whisper," you will most deffinetely be entranced be the spacey vibes in the songs that "I-Empire" delivers. The band somewhat fades from there "3 minute intro" status, and instead have much more "oh's" and "ah's" within the songs. I still think that the space like sounds are a very innovative improvment in music and that shows in songs such as, "Love Like Rockets" and "Heaven." The album starts off with a song titled "Call To Arms," and it's powerful and catchy sound deffinetely shows that Angels & Airwaves are back and better than ever on this new album. // 9
Lyrics and Singing: The lyrics are still fired with the message of love and searching for who you truly are just as they were in "We Don't Need To Whisper," but they have most certaintly matured. The song with some of my favorite lyrics is "Love Like Rockets." The message that Delonge is telling you is that going to a place where you cannot expect what is going to happen is a lot like love. Other songs that touch on the love base are "Breathe, and "True Love." The band stretches their theme of finding who you are and what you believe in throught the rest of the songs. And about Delonge; his singing abilites have deffenetley come a long way from the Blink days, and that is a very good achievement. // 8
Impression: Overall, I think that AVA's second album is about as equally amazing as their debut one. The song's have matured much more and I no longer compare them to Blink. They are a totally different band and a much more powerful one at that. "Everything's Magic," their first single, does have some Blink 182 roots withnin it, but Delonge and Comp. such as hell put much more feeling into the song. Then there are songs such as "Heaven," "Sirens," and "Lifeline" which just mezmirize you and shows that life is something everyone should put their best effort into. The song "Rite of Spring" is a somewhat autobiography on Delonge's life up until now and has an intriguing meaning describing that our lives our always going to have their low points, but double the highs. And probably the album's anthem "Secret Crowds" has the most divine lyrics, music, and message within them that go hand in hand with "I-Empire's" vibe. I will say that there is no "Adventure" on this album, which in my opinion is one of the greatest songs ever written, but it's safe to say that almost all the songs on I-Empire come pretty close. // 10
I-Empire
Reviewed by:
Promothus, on december 13, 2007 2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Sound: Angels and Airwaves is an interesting group, interesting sound. This, in my opinion sounded much better then their previous album "We Don't Need to Whisper". I-Empire also has some sort of story or movie along with it, as I have heard, but I'm not sure. This album actually gave more impression of the instruments then just plain drums. It's chords are simple, but not that satisfying enough. Some song beginnings are just way too overdone, or just plain out making the song not actually seem like it'll be a good song. Rite Of Spring is one that actually does start out with instruments with the guitar, bass, and drums. I found that as a miracle. However, some of the songs actually sound decent. // 7
Lyrics and Singing: The singer's way of singing the song can get sometimes repetitive and quite annoying. Most songs these days are going back to love songs. At least half, if not more of the songs on this album are about love. I find that very annoying at times. The lyrics really decent, I enjoyed them. Rite of Spring was lyrically good, and well done, and played well with the music being made for it. // 8
Impression: Weren't love songs supposed to be made during the '70s-'80s? That's when it was really being done. The beginning of the '90s, it started to die down. But, why are these "punk rock" bands and any thing else actually making love songs? They are too repetitive, they talk about a girl all the time, it's quite annoying. When Van Halen did love songs, it was for it's time, but this is a new era, it should be something different. Not girl/love orientated. If I had lost this album, I would probably forget about it, and not buy it again for another few weeks or so. I love the fact that they attempt to be idealists (that's what I see), they try to make something different, I commend them for that, but it just doesn't catch the ear very well. The main song that I seriously like from this album would be Rite of Spring, because I consider it true to the point. I would recommend them actually being more punk rockish like they were supposed to be, like Tom's old bands, such as Blink 182. // 7
I-Empire
Reviewed by:
unregistered, on november 19, 2007 4 of 15 people found this review helpful
Sound: This is the second album offering from DeLonge and co strangely entitled "I-Empire" with the first being "We don't Need To Whisper". First criticism is of course the album title "I-Empire," another product of the so called 'I Generation'? nowadays it seems as if an 'I' is placed in front of something it's deemed cool but hey it's just an album title! This is a rock album, twelve tracks in length but you can't help but feel cheated due to the fact that one song in particular, 'Star Of Bethlehem' that was originally realeased last Christmas for a KROQ compliation is divided stupidly into two songs for "I-Empire" titled 'Star Of Bethlehem' and 'True Love' and also another track entitled 'Jumping Rooftops' is a time wasting 45 seconds instrumental track that my nine year old brother could put together using GarageBand. The overall sound and structure is quite similar to "We Don't Need To Whisper" however the band do stray of track with songs 'Everythings Magic' and 'Rite Of Spring' the formers main riff sounding identical to 'Anthem Part 2' by Blink 182 and the ladder song a dismal potrayal of Delonge's teenage years. Maybe I'm being too harsh but when I listen to this album it's seems as if the band struggled to make up the twleve tracks, as if they ran out of ideas because a lot is regurgitated over and over, the same effects, the long intros, the stadium-like sounds but overall it is very polished and does sound great when turned up loud! // 5
Lyrics and Singing: A song writer in general will and should progress and get better with time and practice, this cannot be said for Tom Delonge and I'm talking words and lyrics here not music! Lyrically Angels and Airwaves are very different to Blink 182 and Boxcar Racer. Where he used to write and sing about angst, relationships, break ups, depression, teenage fun etc he now writes and sings about, that's the thing, what does he sing about? you certainly cannot relate to any Angels and Airwaves song! How many of us can actually say we've experienced "I held my head as it left the ground, the belts grew tight as the blast grew loud, a loving wish whispered in my ear" whereas millions of fans worldwide could relate to Blink 182 and the darker Boxcar Racer. In my opinion Tom Delonge is trying to hard, he's desperately trying to be something he's not! He comes across as an arrogant rock star (not just on record but live as well, the struts, the moon stomps, the speeches etc) craving for attention! Anyway back to the lyrics actually, no thanks! If you want to hear Delonge at his best listen to Blink 182's self titled or Boxcar Racer. // 2
Impression: If you're a fan of U2 then you'll love this space age/stadium rock/U2-esque band. To be honest I'm not quite sure if Delonge has yet to win over the many Blink 182 fans he betrayed but I can honestly say Plus 44 (former Blink 182 memebers Mark Hoppus and Travis Barker) are much better. Best song on the album would have to be 'Sirens' as it's a departure from the rest of the album, with the Blink 182 like bass riff and catchy pre-choruses. Overall a very pretentious and predictable second and hopefully final album from Angel and Airwaves. I dread to think what the forthcoming Angels and Airwaves motion picture is like! // 3
I-Empire
Reviewed by:
DeLongeFan182, on april 19, 2008 0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Sound: The sound is unique in its own sort of way and it varies with different songs. It was pretty cool how they make all of the instruments blend into eachother to get this sort of effect to it. There's a lot of synthesizers and effects that they have put in the music just to change it up a bit. So really they have more of a popish alternative rock sound. // 9
Lyrics and Singing: The lyrics are pretty good but sometimes repetitive but all in all they were written well. The lyrics blend in awesomely with the music itself so like I said about the instruments all blending together his voice blends in with it all too. Tom's voice has came along way from Blink 182 and people may say that his voice has gotten whiny and gay but I believe he has actually gotten better. // 8
Impression: My most favourite song from the album is Heaven. I think it was peaced together very well and it has a strong meaning to it. The only thing that I honestly did not like about this album is the Anthem Pt. 2 rip off with Everything's Magic. It wasn't very creative on there part by just adding one extra note. I really enjoy this album and it's one that I can listen to over and over again and still enjoy it the same way I did when I first got it. Sometimes I'll say I like Plus 44 better then AVA just because they have a blinkish sound to them but at the end of the day when I listen to the two albums I can honestly say to myself that I like AVA better. And if someone were to steal it I would probably buy a new copy and if I ever found the guy who stole it I'd punch him in the face. // 9
I-Empire
Reviewed by:
ghawk152, on november 20, 2007 0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Sound: Angels And Airwaves' sophomore album is a beautiful continuation of their debut, We Don't Need To Whisper. I-Empire, a powerful title in itself, begins right where We Don't Need To Whisper ended. Tom Delonge has said that We Don't Need To Whisper is an album about rebirth, and I-Empire is what you do after rebirth. If you have heard the last record, you know Angels And Airwaves has a very unique sound, blending delayed and flanged guitars with powerful drums and a wide variety of snyth sounds. Every part of the sound spectrum is filled with this album. The bands influences seem to shine more on this release, with recognizable sounds of U2 and synth rock bands of the '80s, blended with the pop punk sounds each of the members grew up with. There are a couple of instrumentals on this album, both with very electronic sounds. Though this may sound boring, Angels and Airwaves manages to keep your attention with these well put together instrumentals. The guitar, though vital to their sound, isn't exactly a main instrument, and those who wish to see the guitar shine through in music, may be disappointed with I-Empire. // 10
Lyrics and Singing: They lyrics on this album are even better than those on We Don't Need To Whisper. Tom manages to write songs that are to the point, and those that can be interpreted in numerous ways. One track, titled Rite of Spring, is pretty straightforward. It's an autobiography of Tom's life as a teen and how it's affected how he is now. Another track, titled Love Like Rockets, can be interpreted in that a soldier leaves behind his love to go to war and he remembers their final moments and the words they said to each other before he left. It can also be interpreted that love is unpredictable, you never know what to expect. It can take you on the ride of your life. Most of the songs on the album can be interpreted in similar ways, but all are unique in their delivery. I have to compliment Tom's voice on this album. It has improved greatly. He hits a few notes I've never heard Delonge hit in Angels and Airwaves, Boxcar Racer, or Blink 182. On one track entitled Lifeline, Tom hits a high note in the chorus that I never knew he could reach. Overall, the lyrics and singing are great. The only quirk I have is that the phrasing isn't varied as much as it could be. // 8
Impression: Overall, I-Empire is one of the greatest alternative rock albums ever released. The lyrics are powerful and the sound is unique. I-Empire is a beautiful follow-up to We Don't Need To Whisper, and takes you on another great adventure. It's safe to say that if you loved the first album, you'll love I-Empire. // 9
I-Empire
Reviewed by:
punkdisasters, on november 20, 2007 0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Sound: I bought We Don't Need To Whisper last year having only heard The Adventure. At first listen, it was disappointing. Although the songs were well structured, and had cinematic intros, a lot of them sounded the same, and some songs went on far too long in the outros, that I would just turn them off after the bridge. The album is very downbeat and relaxed compared to DeLonge's previous material. The melodies in a lot of the verses of those songs were boring and tuneless, although most of the the choruses were big and powerful. After I while, I gave that album another chance and it has become a favourite of mine, the album as a whole flows like a story and the soundscapes and lyrics are beautiful. Listening to I-Empire, from the very outset it is clear the band have given the music a kick up the backside. Call To Arms carries on with the long introductions of the first record, but here teh intro is less synth and harder with military style drumming, and when the verse kicks in, DeLonge's machine gun melody takes you on a euphoric rollercoaster ride until this song builds to a scintillating climax, the band finally achieve (what they had always threatened but failed to do in the past), hit you with a chorus so damn big it will lift you off the ground. Everything's Magic, Sirens and Rite Of Spring see DeLonge return to his pop-punk past, these songs are stripped down, have catchy, well-rounded melodies that DeLonge sings with ease. New addition Matt Wachter adds some quality bass-playing to the whole thing, most evident on these songs, and much missing from the first record. Lifeline and Breathe are well crafted ballads, if not brilliant rip-offs of U2's With Or Without You and Springsteen's The Rising. Even on these stripped down tunes, the big production is apparent and welcome, as the band carv out a patented pop/rock/alternative/space punk sound in the current climate of indistinguishable whiny indie bands. Secret Crowds is the best song on the album, a huge tune with a monster singalong chorus, "Let me feel you, carry you higher, Watch our words spread hope like fire." This song stands out for its harder sound where David Kennedy is let loose with a Box Car Racer type riff, and drummer Atom Willard shows some remarkable percussion, unheard on the first record. Secret Crowds deserves it's place in big stadiums alongside the electronic U2-esque anthems Love Like Rockets where DeLonge asks "Do you feel alive?", True Love and Heaven. Theses songs are the best examples of the truly uplifting theme of the album. // 10
Lyrics and Singing: The album is full of simple, everyman lyrics like "If I had my own world, I'd fill it with wealth and desire, kids out walking dogs, birdls, planes, cleanest cars" and "Did you know that I love you, come and lay with me, I love you" and "Do you ever feel like your alone, and do you ever wish you'd be unknown, I can say that I have". Some people will see cite these lyrics as examples of DeLonge's bad songwriting, but DeLonge is at his best in showing his simple childlike innocence, and fervour to change the world around him for the better. // 10
Impression: Angels & Airwaves will always draw mixed reactions. Some people shudder at the thought of stadium rock, and some people see poppy, everydude choruses as contrived. DeLonge is playing to his strengths on this album. His strengths have always been simple lyrics and catchy as hell hooks. Where he tried to out-write, out-sing and out-play himself on We Don't Need To Whisper, he returns with the same sound, only less complicated, more honest, and with a band that are as tight as his emo trousers. These guys look like a band now, they might be a crazy band, a cheesy "All you need is love" band, a band who've watched too much Star Wars, but there's no one else like them. More power to them! // 10
I-Empire
Reviewed by:
cbrockel, on november 19, 2007 0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Sound: Ultimately, we all expected the same sound from AVA. The fleeting, space-rock sound that they create is extremely similar and familiarly lifting as U2's. Their sophomore album continues the idea of seeing yourself in the world around you and how you can change your surroundings for the better. David Kennedy is in regular form on this album, but I say regular because upon listening, one gets the sense that his talents are being under-appreciated and misused on this CD. And unfortunately as an AVA fan, I was disappointed at the make-up of songs. Most if not all start with a 2-3 minute keyboard intro that builds to guitar and while not unbearable, it was utilized so much on the last album and gets a bit boring on this one. They needed to do something different and there are shining moments of originality here, but they're few and far between. Tom's voice gets a bit whiny at times, but Atom and Matt really bring AVA together. Not a bad sound, just predictable, over-used, unexciting and leaves no room for innovation. // 6
Lyrics and Singing: DeLonge can write some cryptic lyrics. He can also write some pretty hashed out, vague, and cliched lyrics. They continue the idea of optimism and spreading love which is nice because a lot of bands aren't doing that right now. Even still though, some of the lyrics seemed forced. Call to Arms is hopeful, Everything's Magic can give the listener a child-like perspective, Sirens is good, Secret Crowds is an obvious single, True Love is a bit dull and repetitive, Lifeline is nothing special, and Heaven is ok. The lyrics don't even garner a need for mention because they all end up blending together on the record. Honestly, it's a nice ambition, but when one write about love you can only go so far before you start to repeat yourself. // 7
Impression: This isn't a bad album. Tom tends to talk-up his music which leaves a lot of people just looking for reasons to hate it. It's a decent follow up to We Don't Need to Whisper but nothing to write home about. I love the hopeful lyrics and eretheral space-rock sound, but it can only go so far before something different needs to be done. One of the major problems with the record is that it doesn't build and there isn't a climax. If Tom isn't excited himself about what he's singing, what reason do we have to get excited about it. If it were stolen, I would in all likelihood go out and buy it again. So there's that. Overall AVA fans will probably be pleased but DeLonge has got a long way to go before he's "changing Rock N' Roll history". // 8
I-Empire
Reviewed by:
unregistered, on november 19, 2007 0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Sound: When Angels and Airwaves first released their debut CD, Blink fans everywhere expected to hear something incredible after hearing Delonge's various statements such as 'This is the best album in 20 years'. Some were disappointed, and some actually preferred it to Blink. A year has passed since their debut and Delonge certainly has comeback with a triumphant sophomore effort. The difference between I-Empire and its predecessor is that I-Empire is noticeably diverse compared to their debut. The sound can be quick to the point and immediate to the ears such as the songs "Everything's Magic" and "Sirens". The choruses in those two songs are immediately catchy and one can't help but think that perhaps these are songs Blink might have come up with themselves. Other songs are still in the same vibe as their debut, such as the opener "Call to Arms" and "Heaven" while Star of Bethlehem is a delightful yet calming experience. The sound is refined and more sure of itself. // 9
Lyrics and Singing: The lyrics throughout the album are supposed to tie into a concept Delonge first started in their debut, but this one is about conquering one's own world from within and ultimately changing the world around them. Some of Delonge's best lyrics can be found on this cd, this is evident in songs such as "Secret Crowds" and "Lifeline". Other songs can be regarded as simple yet effective ("Breathe", "Love Like Rockets"). Delonge even makes reference to his life so far in the autobiographical song "Rite of Spring", which anyone can find a bit of themselves within the lyrics (E.g. "my skateboard and my shit guitar, I dreamed all day that they would get me far"). The album closes with a song called "Heaven", and it encompasses everything that gives Angels and Airwaves their signature sound: synths/organs, powerful drums, fast verses, calm chorus, graduatlly building bridge, grand outro, etc. The lyrics are quite anthemic in terms of how one should live their life. It is hard to tear down a song with such a positive message. // 9
Impression: If this album was indeed their actual debut instead of "We Don't Need To Whisper", Angels and Airwaves would have faced much less controversy over Tom Delonge's claims. That being said, this is a fantastic album, but is not one for those who are expecting this album to be like the majority of rock albums released so far. It is a unique sound but it has a bit of everything for Blink fans, Angels and Airwaves fans, and even new ones. Of course not everyone will factor into it, but it's more of a question of personal bias against Delonge for trying something different and leaving Blink 182 than it is actualy musical merit. This album is not a bad album by any means and with an open mind it can be truly cherished and enjoyed. It does have moments where it could have been better, but as a sophomore effort it exceeds expectations. Recommended tracks: Call To Arms, Everything's Magic, Secret Crowds, Sirens, Lifeline // 9
I-Empire
Reviewed by:
Captain Insano, on november 19, 2007 0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Sound: The sound of the record is very good, but nothing revolutionary or ground breaking. The bass playing has noticable improved, with Matt Wachter being added to the line-up. Supposedly there is a story being told throughout the album, but I have yet to notice it. So if you like they whole alternative/progressive rock thing, or liked Blink it's definitely worth checking out. // 8
Lyrics and Singing: The lyrics are decent enough, but once again nothing special and they fit with the music good enough the standout song lyrically being Secret Crowds, "If I had a world, I build you an empire". And Tom returns with the squeaky, girly, heavily edited, anoying voice that we all know and love. // 7
Impression: I-Empire is a big improvement over the bands previous record, We Don't Need to Whisper. They were a few songs that really jumped out at me, Call to Arms, Everything's Magic, and Secret Crowds. One of my favorite things about the album is it's cover, it is the coolest cover I have seen in the past few years. My big problem with the CD is there are a few songs that are mearly interludes, So wish there were a few more tracks. If it were lost I would prolly just buy the few songs that I really like off iTunes. Overall not a bad buy. // 8
I-Empire
Reviewed by:
Rylump, on march 01, 2008 0 of 1 people found this review helpful
Sound: As you all know Tom Delonge from Blink 182, 90% of people that listen to AVA, heard him before in Blink 182. This is a completely different sound. But it still kicks ass! All the band members in AVA, all came from punk rock backgrounds; for example, Tom DeLonge (Blink 182), Atom Willard (Rocket From The Crypt), Matt Wachter (30 Seconds To Mars), and David Kennedy (Boxcar Racer). This sound is a lot like the '80. It almost sounds like it's own style. It is actually quite relaxing with the upbeat music, and catchy pop sounds. They did a really good job, of making the music sound, with the lyrics. Awesome sound. // 10
Lyrics and Singing: If you know Tom Delonge, I am sure you think that the lyrics will be about things that are funny sometimes, which you probably know what. But this CD is a lot different. The song Call To Arms (the opening) I personally, thought was rad. A melody that grew big by the end of the song. Rite of Spring, a song about Tom's life, from when he started with nothing, and it turned to everything. Secret Crowds, a definent hit. Strong Guitar Riffs, Heavy Vocals, it is purely great. Tom has his own style of singing, which really creates more feeling in these songs. It sounds like he sings how they should sound in all of these songs. It just wouldn't sound right, without him singing. // 10
Impression: This is there best CD (out of only 2 AVA CDs). The other record "We Don't Need To Whisper" was mostly about war, and loss of hope, in some of the songs. Don't get me wrong, there are still awesome songs. This CD is more about the subject "Everything will be alright, and don't give up". Great CD, I recommend you go buy it at a store, or on iTunes. If this CD ever got lost or stolen, I would deffinently buy a new one. If you just want to get a taste of what, they sound like, go on iTunes and buy, Call to Arms, Everythings Magic (which you've probably heard), Secret Crowds, or Rite of Spring. I think the smartest idea is to just buy the whole record. // 10
I-Empire
Reviewed by:
miss_murder94, on february 06, 2008 0 of 6 people found this review helpful
Sound: I've been listening to Tom DeLonge's stuff for quite a while now from Blink to Box Car Racer To Angle And Airwaves and I am not impressed as to what he has done to his carreer. The music, the lyrics, the voice. the guitar all are not very good. an amuture could do that. He needs to keep up with what he did in blink where the music wasn't very hard but every thing eles was very good. was it because of mark hoppus was always on his side? idk but Tom has killed him self. // 2
Lyrics and Singing: I've been listening to Tom DeLonge's stuff for quite a while now from Blink To Box Car Racer To Angle And Airwaves and I am not impressed as to what he has done to his carreer. The music, the lyrics, the voice. the guitar all are not very good. an amuture could do that. He needs to keep up with what he did in blink where the music wasn't very hard but every thing eles was very good. was it because of mark hoppus was always on his side? idk but Tom has killed him self. // 2
Impression: I've been listening to Tom DeLonge's stuff for quite a while now from Blink To Box Car Racer To Angle And Airwaves and I am not impressed as to what he has done to his carreer. The music, the lyrics, the voice. the guitar all are not very good. an amuture could do that. He needs to keep up with what he did in blink where the music wasn't very hard but every thing eles was very good. was it because of mark hoppus was always on his side? But Tom has killed himself. // 2
i for one am very proud of tom. today i listened to some blink and the changes he's made from being a young immature boy specializing in toilet humor to this grown up man with angels and airwaves is actually an amazing turnaround.
...as for the music...
well im still getting used to enjoying it while sober...haha
Love it!!! Took me a few listens but hell it is awesome. But i'm the kind of person that loves the overall feel of songs and AVA does extremely well at creating well crafted songs that can really be felt. So if your not in it for the overall sound of the music then you will probably not be as impressed as i am.
This album is great! When I first heard AvA I didn't even know it was a former Blink member! After a while though I grew nostalgic for all the old Blink riffs. But after I-Empire, I was restored, for this album kicks ass! Tom, your my idol! Email me at fockewolfe110@aim.com!
I gave it a few listens and sadly
I just cant get into it.
I think its something only few can relate too.
And in one review i have to agree.
Tom your trying to hard.
i liked blink 182 when i was in 6th grade. then i grew outta them. i heard AVA frist album sometime in highschool. i didnt know it was tom but i thought something sounded familiar. all the synth pop is past its time. time to come out of the 80s
i think this is an ok-record, but then again, im still a blink-person...
but in these days, when an artist have to be able to perform live, i dont think his voice quite cut it.
therefor, i am of the oppinion that he should go back to blink-music, since his voice actually works with that...
i like this album, altho yeh rooftops is pointless imo.
AVA is a good band but i have a feeling that they aint gonna last long. if they realease a 3rd album, how different is it gnna be to the 1st two??? my gut feeling is that it will just be repetative, and this is a type of band whos ideas may disintegrate after a while becuase of their style of music. i can lsn to blink frequently but i dunno about AVA.
we all love or loved Tom... well, this is life... Tom matured a lot, Ive always loved him as guitarist and singer! Before Tom was very good on live concerts when specially entertaining the fans on the break time. But the truth is that he wasnt sooo good singing live. Now his voice has been more mature too and he really rocks on concerts but isnt drunk all the time as he was in blink.... PEACE AND LOVE!! GO TOM!! UR NEW ALBUM IS REALLY GREAT! You just got to listen to them a few times and your stuck on the songs! and his songs are more sentimental, has more feeling. The lyrics, they actaully mean a lot! and the lyrics means somthing for the album! its gets together!!
This album is great! When I first heard AvA I didn't even know it was a former Blink member! After a while though I grew nostalgic for all the old Blink riffs. But after I-Empire, I was restored, for this album kicks ass! Tom, your my idol! Email me at fockewolfe110@aim.com!
if tom delonge wasn't at blink 182, would AvA be famous? would anyone know about just the existence of this band? think about it.
by the way, not the worst album i've ever heard, but it could be more aggressive and dinamyc, like boxcar racer... i hope +44 will do some really punk-rock thing in their forthcoming new album...
AVA will never have an album that is as good a rock album as Dude Ranch was a punk album, or an album that is as brilliant in general as blinks self titled. I just wish Tom felt the same way.
i dont kno, i liked we dont need to wisper, but i heard everythings magic on youtube.. im not intersted in getting iempire. i think its a waste of money
i think everyone needs to stop relating angels and airwaves to blink 182. theyre two totally separate bands, so if you dont like angels and airwaves no need to keep slagging them off for doing something different!!!
I like this album. I think it's pretty good. I don't know why you guys just "stop reading" because it says "dance oriented."
Your just ignorant to other kinds of music.
Im not ignorant to other types of music, its just Ive heard dance-oriented rock and its not my taste. So I can totally understand why people would get to "dance-oriented" and be like...THATS IT IM GOOD.
I must say this is one of the best albums I have ever heard. It's ten times better than the first one, and I love that one, too. I don't see what people don't like about it. All the songs are so catchy and just amazing. This is Tom DeLonge at his best.
seriously people, stop trying to compare AVA to blink-182. it's like comparing a dolphin to a watermelon: they're completely different in every way possible.
anyways, great album. much better than the first. the band is really taking a big step into a new direction of music, and i definitely applaud them for that.
Sooo much better than the first album... a few songs on there will please Blink 182 fans, and they still like a bit of the "epic" arena rock on some of these.
I wouldn't call the album dance-orientated... although one of the songs builds like European trance... to a ****ing big crescendo.
i dont see how going from such an awsome band as blink that tom can come out with this sucky music
blink needs to reunite theyre music is 10 times better than anything AVA or +44 will ever make
i think that avas new album is ****en retarted! and they do sound like blink in the song everythings magic the intro sounds just like the anthem part 2 and thats why its their best song... i think that the rest of their songs are shit. and i think that blink have to get back together coz they were way better then what angels and airwaves will ever be!
it sucks that all these blink fans have not let go of blink. I loved blink 182 and i love +44 and AVA. AVA is different because its deeper than powerchords and rockshows. Oh and angels and airwaves will be around because of their vision and their backgrounds. don't besurprised if one day your views change on them.
I love this album...I loved We Dont need to Whisper, but for me this one is sooo much better, the lyrics are more meaningful and there is less repetition in this cd. I really don't think this is like 80's synth pop and it is ot dance oriented. I have no idea where that came from, this is just AvA
Ok, so I have both albums from AVA and I have the ONLY album from +44. Yet, people seem to think that +44 is better. Sure, if you're into Blink, then +44 is more your style, but AVA has still accomplished way more than +44. It's funny cuz in an interview with Mark Hoppus, he said part of the reason they broke up was because him and Travis wanted to keep working on music. Why do they only have one album? Plus, they only released one single from that album. AVA has done so well with their music. Tom is gifted lyrically. Sure, he does repeat himself in a few songs, but it's only to get his point across. The way I see it, if you don't like it, then why do you talk bad about it? Tom has accomplished a lot. Oh and as far as Blink getting back together...keep dreaming. You can see from both bands that that's never gonna happen.
The problem with AVA is that Tom doesn't work well with those musicians. He had worked with Mark for soo long that they just had a way of making music. Their ideas tossed around and bounced off each other as well as singing.
I think a lot of what people probably miss between +44 and AVA is the fact that there is only one singer. One thing I got used to was that Mark and Tom traded vocals, and in self-titled, they mingled them together much better for a grandoise album. Self-titled is the epitomy of Blink-182, and that's great. End on your best album, the apex of your perfection in a specific band with specific memembers (not musical style!)
As for the new album... man, it's really not worth much. Tone back the electronics which hide your horrible rehashed guitar chords... the "spacey" feel is quite cliche and only really popular with DJ's and other bands... Tom went into an area that he's not fit for. Mixing "spacy" + "punk roots" is really... not anything interesting.
I don't want to get into a fast-paced, heavy-chord song and have it whimper down into a flat spacey wave... that's really sad. Although they "buildup" to something.... it's... something. I wouldn't say much buildup to much.
The lyrics for this album are atrocious. Tom seemed to completely forget himself when he left Blink-182, and left behind his writing skills. Although he's on a completely new style of writing, he just was not cut out for it. He did not "slide" into position with ease. His new writing doesn't fit at all. He took a que from Red Hot Chili Peppers and writes a whole bunch of strange lyrics, but at least RHCP's eventually mesh and make some sense when you hear the chorus and bridge, but I can't feel that with AVA... you're still left lost as new unrelated lyrics float into every line of his singing.
I feel bad because I don't doubt that this band can produce something good, but I'm just not feeling it and I think too many people are just backing AVA because it's Tom and not because the band has any credibility. So far, there credibility with me is shot and I'll wait till they either break up or produce an album that can be actually listended over and over again, but until then... just shelf their album and nod your head if you hear the song on the radio, but don't go blarring it like it's the greatest thing you've ever heard... just some space-esque catchy pop-rock.
Sorry, Tom. Get better. Find your place outside of punk, then reinvent your sound. Start there and end well.
This is a mixed bag. On the one hand, Tom has returned to his roots of producing catchy, melodic tunes which you can tap your foot to. And on the other, Mr Delonge feels that his average-at-best voice (which was perfectly at home on a pop punk record) has somehow magically become amazing. It hasn't, Tom's attempts at creating melodic sounds and not words to fill in the gaps in his lyrics are laughable, akin to a performance of classic opera by a throat cancer victim.
The vocals are largely unimaginative, which is also something that is at home on pop punk records, and leave the listener wondering if there was really any need for them. The highlight of Delonge's lyrical foray comes in the form of 'Rite of Spring' which is the closest that he has ever come to writing something truly beautiful. Unfortunately, he ruins it in the bridge towards the end of the song but singing oh-oh's and ah-ah's which highlight the inadequacy of his voice.
The inclusion of 'Star of Bethlehem' is perhaps the greatest insult that Delonge has delivered his fans, and is as though he had run out of creativity and clutched at the closest thing he could find to being an original track.
Whilst the album is bristling with potential, as was 'Whisper', Delonge & co fail to deliver once more. Due to Tom's big mouth, this failure is once again spectacular, and largely unnoticed. Listen to this album a few times and it becomes background music, perhaps more suited to an elevator, not your home stereo.
THE new album is good! i think it is even better than enema f the state... well i cant compare... its not the same style. But many people critisices tom and says bad things... but u know what?! some blink friends talked shit about him a few weeks ago... only becasue he leaved blinked!! but i told them to listen to the new album... and wanna knwo what? they loved it...! u just got to be tolerant-... TOM IS MORE MATURE NOW! HIS SONGS HAVE MORE MEANING NOW!! THE LYRICS!!! Give I empire a chance all of u who says sh*t abput tom!PS LOVE call to arms and secret crowds
dude this new CD is awesome. If you just listen to the lyrics and think it through it really is a good message. Maybe its because alot of the things in the cd kinda applies in my life
This Album is the catchy-est album i hav ever heard i bought it the first day it came out and i was like "holy crap! this is fricken amazing!!!" i love this cd the song rite of spring is about Tom's life and why he broke up Blink this is a great cd i give it a 10 out of 10
We all know the everything's magic riff sounds like anthem part 2, but it's not exactly the same. Besides, Tom wrote it in the first place so he has the right to use it again for a new song.
And this is the best album ever in my opinion.
i have but 1 word for ava "garbage".... blink was awesome their music help me through alot of shit, but like all good things must end. plus 44 they stay'd true the the blink sound that just shows who the genius was behind all of blink success.
so in the end ava=garbage - plus 44 = awesome-ness
and blink = no words can discribe....
This album was indeed better than We Don't Need to Whisper, but it still falls way short of anything blink-182 did.
We all know the everything's magic riff sounds like anthem part 2, but it's not exactly the same. Besides, Tom wrote it in the first place so he has the right to use it again for a new song.
That's not the point, the fact is that the riff is a blink-182 ripoff, and it shows complete lack of originality. The fact that this sounds like a U2 cover band doesn't help that either.
Tom may have helped write some amazing songs in blink-182, but it's clear from +44 who the real driving force was behind blink-182.
Ok, so I have both albums from AVA and I have the ONLY album from +44. Yet, people seem to think that +44 is better. Sure, if you're into Blink, then +44 is more your style, but AVA has still accomplished way more than +44. It's funny cuz in an interview with Mark Hoppus, he said part of the reason they broke up was because him and Travis wanted to keep working on music. Why do they only have one album? Plus, they only released one single from that album. AVA has done so well with their music. Tom is gifted lyrically. Sure, he does repeat himself in a few songs, but it's only to get his point across. The way I see it, if you don't like it, then why do you talk bad about it? Tom has accomplished a lot. Oh and as far as Blink getting back together...keep dreaming. You can see from both bands that that's never gonna happen.
AvA put out two albums in two years, whereas Mark and Travis (later Carol, Shane, and Craig) spent nearly two years working on one album. Putting out two albums in two years with three or four good songs (The Adventure, The War, Secret Crowds) is hardly an azazing accomplishment.
Thus far, AvA has released four singles: The Adventure, Do It for Me Now, The War, and Everything's Magic. +44 has released three singles: When Your Heart Stops Beating, Baby, Come On, and 155. +44 has only one album because the focused on QUALITY over QUANTITY. I think this is evident on I-Empire through the blink-182 ripoff Everything's Magic and Star of Bethlehem/True Love, which due to its split makes up two songs. Right. Tom needed filler. Tom was gifted lyrically, and sometimes that gift shows back through. Secret Crowds is an amazing song. But that doesn't make up for 11 other songs that are merely okay.
When Your Heart Stops Beating wasn't a perfect album, but I can still listen to it and enjoy it just as much as I did the day I bought it. And most importantly, at least it's honest.
getts182 wrote:
AvA put out two albums in two years, whereas Mark and Travis (later Carol, Shane, and Craig) spent nearly two years working on one album. Putting out two albums in two years with three or four good songs (The Adventure, The War, Secret Crowds) is hardly an azazing accomplishment.
Thus far, AvA has released four singles: The Adventure, Do It for Me Now, The War, and Everything's Magic. +44 has released three singles: When Your Heart Stops Beating, Baby, Come On, and 155. +44 has only one album because the focused on QUALITY over QUANTITY. I think this is evident on I-Empire through the blink-182 ripoff Everything's Magic and Star of Bethlehem/True Love, which due to its split makes up two songs. Right. Tom needed filler. Tom was gifted lyrically, and sometimes that gift shows back through. Secret Crowds is an amazing song. But that doesn't make up for 11 other songs that are merely okay.
When Your Heart Stops Beating wasn't a perfect album, but I can still listen to it and enjoy it just as much as I did the day I bought it. And most importantly, at least it's honest.
I agree with what you said about +44. That album is probably the most honest music Mark and Travis will ever make.
Do you like know what i think? because i have exactly the same thought as you.
Also, if you check youtube or other sits with movies from live performances from AVa and +44, it seems as +44 entertains the crowd more and get them along to have a really good time, AVAs performances are dull and quite boring. +44 got a really good album out, AVA got 2 albums but their not finished, Escpecially the second, before it was released you already heard star of bethlehem/true love/everythings magic/sirens/call to arms(under other name)/secret crowds. then you think you get a totally new album then its just those songs with 3 new songs on it.
I can't believe one of the reviewers said (+44) were better than AVA. How does generic, four chord "punk" rock garner a place over actual instrumentation and lyrics that preach something everyone can get behind? (+44)'s album is boring...I gave it one listen and found all the songs were depressing and ran together.
why wont people get over blink breaking up and realise that angels and airwaves are actually really talented and innovative. i empire is better than we dont need to whisper,so their getting better and better! im confident that they'll conquer all ya'll haters hearts.
Tom delogne got a fu**in signature guitar from gibson because he made a bunch of teenage girls and emos cry, i would luv to see travis barker stick a drumstick up his sorry faggot ass!
AVA7714 wrote:
Oh and as far as Blink getting back together...keep dreaming. You can see from both bands that that's never gonna happen.
they just did... :/
but i like both AVA and blink-182!!
but +44 kinda blows cuz mark's voice is too flat and boring and their music sounds like some shitty wannabie punksters. Sorry but Mark and Travis need Tom!!
I can't believe one of the reviewers said (+44) were better than AVA. How does generic, four chord "punk" rock garner a place over actual instrumentation and lyrics that preach something everyone can get behind? (+44)'s album is boring...I gave it one listen and found all the songs were depressing and ran together.
Exactly this!
Listen to this and their last album as a new band. don't compare it to blink and you'll love it!
I personally like AvA more than +44..
I (unlike some people) like when bands changed and try different things and AvA did just that.
This music gives you an awesome message a long with incredible music.
I love mark and travis but I feel like they played it kind of safe with +44.
I think that this CD, I-Empire was a good CD but I loved the Whisper CD way more. I liked having those intros and the music on this one was good but Everything's Magic was definilty meant for the radio which isn't bad but I loved the first AVA album because I felt more with the music. I know that sounds lame but when I first heard those songs, they really stuck with me and I know where I was and who i was with. I love the sound of AVA and I'm hoping now that blink is back, they can mix some of the AVA style in their new stuff.
