Jack
4 stars
From Elton John to Billy Joel, piano rock has a long and distinguished history in rock and roll. It’s still a bit early to know whether Andrew McMahon will join their ranks, but with his Something Corporate work and side project, Jack’s Mannequin, he is well on his way.
In the summer of 2005, Jack’s Mannequin released Everything in Transit, a record that deals with what happens when you return home after being away and find everything different. The initial single, “The Mixed Tape,” has someone compiling a mixed tape for a lost love. “Bruised” touches on the feelings when you leave a lover behind. To say that loss is a theme here is an understatement.
The music blends together effortlessly, which isn’t surprising given McMahon’s past experience. His piano work is in fine form and lyrically, the album is very strong with the sounds veering from rock (“The Mixed Tape”) to beach music (“Miss Delaney”).
It’s unfortunate McMahon spent more than a year battling leukemia beginning just as the album was released. Without touring to publicize it, there was an attention deficit this release suffered undeservedly. That’s made up somewhat by the popularity of Jack’s Mannequin on movie soundtracks and theme albums.
There are tales that this year might see a follow-up released. Fans of Andrew McMahon, Jack’s Mannequin, and Something Corporate have reason to be excited if the release is as strong as this.
Scale:
0. Shoot yourself
1. Poor
2. So-So
3. Good
4. Excellent
5. Instant classic
July 19th, 2007 at 4:09 pm
Hey, Brian, thanks for picking up my slack. Sorry I haven’t posted a review in a while. I’ve been visiting my parents and getting a job, etc. I assure you I have many records I’m about to review, including the new Smashing Pumpkins.
As far as the Jack’s Mannequin record goes, it’s one of my favorite albums of the decade so far. It’s a loose concept album of losing love and finding yourself. It’s such a cathartic record to listen to. I adore it. I’d have to say my favorite track is “Bruised,” but “Holiday from Real” and “Dark Blue” are close. I am not such a big fan of Something Corporate. It’s a little too emo-y for my taste. But Andrew McMahon really nailed everything that is good about music on Everything in Transit. I probably would give it 5 stars.