Tag Archives: Andrew McMahon

May 07 2013
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Album Review

Album Review: Andrew McMahon – The Pop Underground

I See Colors When I Hear Your Voice

Initially, the thought of Andrew McMahon trading-in his iconic piano for a full-on synthesizer sounds a bit blasphemous and ludicrous. The Piano Man is a legend around these parts; a lyrical genius in the eyes of many. Still, we remained profoundly hopefully when the announcement was made excitedly stating McMahon would be embarking on his first-ever solo journey. Astonishingly, it was only a week prior to the album’s release that I was informed of the its upcoming arrival. Like most, I had been expecting the traditional mix of anthems and ballads. Never would I have believed I would instantly fall for any kind of “new and improved” version of what I’ve been accustomed to and attached to for years. In all honestly, The Pop Underground was a resplendent surprise for me. Eventually, the thought of Andrew McMahon trading-in his famed piano for a cutting-edge synthesizer sound seems flawlessly acceptable and significantly late in its arrival.

More of My Review After the Cut!

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Oct 11 2012
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Nerd News

Music News (10/11/12)

As some of you may have already heard, this past month we received some very surprising news from Jack’s Mannequin and their frontman, Andrew McMahon. After seven years, the band has decided to go their separate ways. At this point in time, I’m still living in denial, telling myself that it has all been a part of my overactive imagination. However, it’s not. When you look for that familiar JM web address, you’ll find it’s no longer there; every trace of it, gone. In its place, we find this:

Two Advil pm and 3 ounces of bullet rye later it occurs to me I have something to say. To the wall, to myself, to anyone who will listen. I enjoy operating in this space, late at night when the questions become riddles and the present tense becomes the past, shoring up hope at morning’s edge. As indicated by the page these words appear on and the mere existence of the words themselves, I am once again in transition. The truth is I am always so, and while for me it seems less like news and possibly for you too, I wish to clear what is left of the summer air. In approximately one day from the time these words are written, the double life I have been living will be filed away. A digital memory. I don’t chose this despite myself or the things I have created, and certainly not despite you. Quite the contrary, this is celebration of those things and the mysterious racket their separation has made inside my head. The truth is we all live inside ourselves, whether it’s the right thing to do or not. I have asked many things of many people. Follow me this way or that, up or down. Watch me dismantle one bomb to simply build a new one. It’s exhausting some times and while I never know the plan, it seems there is one. Maybe you’re tired of following and if so I wouldn’t blame you. If not though and for your information, I will be trading in old masks for one with my name written on the inside. I’m still learning how to wear it, but it feels good most days and it seems to match fingerprints. (Source)

Yes, Andrew McMahon will continue to create; to make magnificent music. Though we will always feel the loss, we must move on. I am still, and will always be a Andrew McMahon fan, first and foremost. Jack’s Mannequin was simply another short, wonderful stop on this long, beautiful journey. As a thank you to fans, Jack’s has released one last song. Wrecking Ball Heart is the final stop on this tour, available for your awaiting ears for free. Listen, download, and enjoy.

Now, if you’ll excuse. I’m going to cry myself to sleep.

More Music News After the Cut!

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Jun 29 2012
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Press Play Friday

Press Play Friday: All-Stars

The Best of . . .

As BLOGAVERSARY week comes to a close, I thought for today’s Press Play it would be nice to look back at a few of our favorite featured artists from the past two years. Many talented musicians have taken the spotlight since the segment’s introduction – which featured Mumford & Sons; singer/songwriters, Pop stars, rockers, indie-alternative groups. The selection has been vast and varied. It has been a place that has introduced you to up & coming artists, fan favorites, and previous unknowns. I hope to continue that tradition, bringing you even more new artists and fresh music for your lovely ears to devour. My music obsession knows no bounds and it won’t be long (Next week, actually) until you’ll have another song or album to download; another artist to discover. Press Play has been and will always be a home for all music lovers.

Oh, look. It’s Florence + The Machine. You’re not surprised, are you? You shouldn’t be, seeing as I’m kinda (a lot) obsessed with this band and have frequently posted about the magical awesomeness they possess. “You want to keep Florence in your pocket and have her sing you lullabies. Or maybe, that’s just me?” (Ceremonials – Album Review, 11/8/11).

More Music After the Cut!

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Oct 11 2011
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Album Review

Album Review: Jack’s Mannequin – People and Things

“Keep your eyes on the road, on the Glass Passenger. He sings for a traveling band.”

Source: Google Images

Debuting their third studio album, Jack’s Mannequin has once again, brought us back to a place we love and remember so fondly. It’s great to be here again, isn’t it? With a new, but delightfully familiar sound, People and Things is the latest creation of melodies & lyrics from our friend and resident musical genius, Andrew McMahon. For fans, People and Things will be a surprising fusion of the easy, rock & pop inspired Everything in Transit and the powerful & personal journey of The Glass Passenger. It will be easy to recognize the usual flawless execution Andrew presents with each and every song he writes. Saying that, I’ve now had a week to break down the lyrics and phrasing – the melodies and the comforting refrains. I’ve listened to each song countless times. I’ve written ‘I love Andrew’ on all my notebooks (Not true, but the sentiment is there). I can honestly say, that whether or not you’re a fan, there is no doubt this album is an exceptionally crafted musical voyage you will instantly fall in love with. The thing that will bring you back time and time again, is the recognition that every Jack’s Mannequin song has a voice; each selection is unique and noteworthy.

Amy, I has to be my favorite song on the record and another classic Jack’s Mannequin track. I have no doubt this is one tune that will have audiences singing along at every show. The song is an exceptional addition to People and Things. Tracks like Television and Release Me also confirm Andrew’s success at writing heartfelt, endearing hooks.

More Music After The Cut!

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Jul 20 2011
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Nerd News

Music News: Jack’s Mannequin “People And Things”

“We break with speed, That girl can read my racing thoughts.”

Extra! Extra! Read all about it! Piano Man, Andrew McMahon and his super awesome posse of musicians, aka Jack’s Mannequin announced yesterday that their long-awaited third studio album, People And Things will be officially released on October 4th, 2011. While this enough to make you break out into your happy dance (Yeah, I did it), they also announced that the first single “My  Racing Thoughts” will be available to purchase at your local online music establishment, August 2nd. Wait. There’s more. I know. Could it get any more awesome? You can preview the single right now. That’s right, people. Drop whatever you are doing, pick up those headphones, and get ready to listen to another stunning anthem from Jack’s Mannequin.

For more information check out the official website for Jack’s Mannequin HERE

What did you think of “My Racing Thoughts?” Are you excited for the new album? What is your favorite Jack’s Mannequin song? Favorite album? Tell me in the comments!

For more Kim the FanGirl follow the blog on Twitter @kimthefangirl and on Facebook

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Sep 24 2010
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Press Play Friday

Artist of the Month: Jack’s Mannequin – Dear Jack

Artist of the Month: Jack’s Mannequin wraps up today. Let’s celebrate this amazing artist!

Source: Photobucket

Dear Jack,

Wow. It’s been a crazy month. We went behind the music in all cheesy VH1 fashion. We listened to your music (Parts 1 and 2). I might have gotten a little overdramatic as we examined your lyrics and listened to your beautiful melodies. And now we celebrate. Celebrate you as an artist. But how do we do that exactly? I’m sure that long letters and monologues expressing just how much you mean to me and your fan community would be justified. But, I don’t think that’s how we should go out. So how do we end Artist of the Month?

Well, let’s start off by saying why I love Jack’s Mannequin. I don’t think in the entirety of this I ever said, why? Why do I love Jack’s Mannequin? It’s more than just the amazing lyrics and songs. It’s the band. It’s Andrew. At my first, and hopefully not my last Jack’s Mannequin concert, I remember one thing specifically. It wasn’t how breathtaking seeing them live was, or the energy and excitement Andrew brought. But, it was how every person in that room was singing along. Singing and knowing every sing line, every single word of music. It was incredible! Never have I seen that or felt so much love and energy come from a room before. That’s why I love Jack’s Mannequin. If the music has that much effect on someone or an entire room of people, you know that Jack’s Mannequin is something special.

So now what? I’ve thought long and hard on how to accurately sum up the amazing power of Jack’s Mannequin, and I could think of only one thing: more music! That’s how you sum up Jack’s Mannequin. Music. That’s where the heart is. So, that’s where we’re going to go. Let’s go back. Back to the music.

Dear Jack

“You were the fighter, I was the kid against the world, I heard there’s nothing gonna hold you down, I’ll use a lighter so you can see what isn’t there, We’ll swing at air, Swinging off eventually you’re bound, Bound to the ground”

More Music After The Cut!

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Sep 17 2010
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Press Play Friday

Artist of the Month: Jack’s Mannequin – The Music Part 2

“I’m writing you a symphony of sound”

Source: Google Images

No. You’re not seeing double. We continue Artist Of The Month with more music from Jack’s Mannequin. In part 1, we swam, were Bruised, lived in Dark Blue, and played with Hammers and Strings (Don’t you love my play-on-words?). Today we might go into the Caves or play The Mixed Tape (I think this is getting old). Wherever we go, you’re sure to have an amazing soundtrack to accompany you.

To go along with this on-the-road metaphor we seem to have going on, I want you to pretend that you’re going on a road trip. The destination is not necessarily known and you like it that way. Your bags are packed and you’re ready to leave your stressful day-to-day life behind. Are you with me so far? Okay.

You begin your journey. The sun is shining. The sky is blue and cloudless. Your excited about the possibility of the unknown. Life is good. Then you remember that you’ve made an awesome mix tape. You leave the claustrophobic space behind you as you open the windows. The wind is a powerful force that wants to take you away. Music begins to play. This is your favorite song. You get butterflies as you hear it. The open window prompts you to push your hand out. You feel it. You feel the power (Didn’t I say I was overdramatic?). You start to get goosebumps. The combination of the music, the sun, the wind, make you feel indestructible. You feel alive.

This is how I see Jack’s Mannequin. They are the combination of the sun, the wind, the music. They are the feeling you get as you make those circular patterns in the air, as you feel the warmth of the sun on your face, as you hear the beats and melodies of the music (Again. I’m overdramatic). They are the perfect soundtrack on this road trip.

The Mixed Tape is the beginning of the road trip. It’s the high energy, jump up and down, fist pumping beginning to your journey. It might be a little angry, but it’s romantic and exciting. It’s what you want your trip to be. I see this song as one of the best I’m-doing-better-without-you-but-I-still-love-you-sort-of get back at your boyfriend/girlfriend tune. It’s perfect when you just want to dance it out (High five to anyone who got that Grey’s Anatomy reference).

More Music After The Cut!

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Sep 10 2010
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Press Play Friday

Artist of the Month: Jack’s Mannequin – The Music Part 1

We continue Artist Of The Month with the music of Jack’s Mannequin. Part 1

A musician is more than an artist. A musician is someone who puts their heart and soul into their music. They create every detail. They compose a symphony of song. They write their own music. It’s not about money or fame. It’s about music. It’s about love. Andrew McMahon (Jack’s Mannequin) is a musician, so categorizing him as an artist is one-sided. He is more than that. So let’s rename this Musician of the Month (Am I getting too mushy?). Yes. I love Andrew. I love Jack’s Mannequin. Frankly, I think Andrew is the greatest songwriter of our generation. That’s my personal opinion. But, you can see it in the music. The craft, the lyrics, the melodies. It’s all there. You just have to look.

So today, we’re going to start looking a little deeper into the music. Listening. Understanding. Feel the emotion. Listening to the lyrics (This is starting to sound like a bad, bad teaching exercise). Let’s start off with probably the most recognizable Jack’s Mannequin song, Dark Blue. Now, I want you to listen to the song first, soak it in. Then, listen to it again, pay attention to the lyrics this time. Listen again, listen to the melodies, the piano. Just breathe it in. You should do this for all of the following songs (It’s like a yoga mantra).

“This flood (this flood) is slowly rising up swallowing the ground Beneath my feet, Tell me how anybody thinks under this condition so I’ll swim (I’ll swim) as the water rises up, the sun is sinking down And now all I can see are the planets in a row Suggesting it’s best that I slow down This night’s a perfect shade of Dark blue (dark blue)”

More Music After The Cut!

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Sep 03 2010
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Press Play Friday

Artist of the Month: Jack’s Mannequin

Jack’s Mannequin. Do I really need to say anything more here?

Source: Photobucket

“I consider myself a person like everyone else, and I take my time writing my records because I feel like it captures more of who I am. You have a much greater chance of hitting on themes and points…that could play into someone else’s life in a larger way.” – Andrew McMahon

When I started thinking about what I wanted to do for Press Play Fridays, I not only wanted to introduce you to new artists and music, but to artists that I love or artists that I can reintroduce you to. So, for Artist Of The Month, I want a celebration for the artist. To send the streamers and paper confetti flying! Not only will we be celebrating their music, but what makes them, them; their voice, their style, their attitude toward their music, etc. To begin this journey, we’re going to get to know the artist a little bit more. It’s going to be fun, you’ll see.

And for this first Artist Of The Month, I could think of non-other than a person and musician that I admire and love. His name might be Andrew, and he might be a real flesh and blood human, but he is still Jack’s Mannequin.

This is Behind The Music (Insert some awesome background music here): Jack’s Mannequin.

After being the front man and piano man of three Something Corporate albums, Andrew McMahon decided that it was time to bring it back home to southern California. In an attempt to slow things down and get back to his roots, Andrew starting writing songs for what would be Jack’s Mannequin debut album Everything In Transit. “I just wanted to get things off my chest. I wasn’t planning to do anything with these songs except record them” (Source).

Then as the writing process was ending, Andrew was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Though caught in the early stages, this specific type of leukemia was rare for someone of Andrews age. Over time, Andrew received different treatments, including a stem cell transplant from his sister Katie. In December of 2005 the transplant was deemed successful and Andrew began to perform again after several months. Andrew remains in remission today.

Source: Photobucket

At the same time Andrew was dealing with his diagnosis, Everything In Transit hit stores in August of ’05. “From spirited songs about living life to its fullest to gut-wrenching ballads on hopeless despair, Everything in Transit explores the complete emotional spectrum, taking you along on a journey that will make you both smile and cry, sometimes even in the same song” (Source). Songs like The Mixed Tape, M.F.E.O, and Dark Blue have become songs of a generation (Well, I think of them that way). “Everything in Transit is one of the best pop rock records I have ever heard, and is further testament as to why Andrew McMahon is the one of the greatest songwriters of our generation. Everything in Transit is an album that will make you laugh, cry, and truly appreciate life . . . ” (Source).

More Of Behind The Music After The Cut!

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