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.

The 2nd Law

Oh, Muse. You’ve done it again.

The latest record from these acclaimed rockers is nothing short of awesome. Intricate and detailed, each track flows almost seamlessly into one another, resembling a symphony of sorts. Though intertwined, the songs stylistically range from pure Rock to Pop-Electronic, all the way to innovative orchestral pieces. The record is irresistible; a must download.

Album Rating: A-

New Releases

Worn Down By Time is the latest track from graveled voiced blues crooner, Marcus Foster. Set to debut his latest EP, The Last House, on October 21st, the single promotes a somewhat enhanced jazzed version of the singer/songwriter. Initially presented as a melancholy tale, the tune steadily and unexpected transforms into a jovial gospel anthem. Truly delightful.

One of our favorite Press Play artists, Freelance Whales, has recently launched their sophomore album, Diluvia. If this new record is anything like Weathervanes, I’m sure we’ll all be spending several days and nights dedicated to memorizing more of these fun Synth-Pop ballads.

Here, check out Dig Into Waves.

Coming Soon

This week, the Breaking Dawn: Part 2 soundtrack list was revealed, much to the delight of Twihards and music nerds everywhere. As everyone knows, one of the best parts of the Twilight film franchise has been the saga’s soundtracks. This being the final film, we all have high hopes for the anticipated album. As I look at the list now, I’m confused. While I applaud the usual mix of in-demand artists and emerging indie bands, something seems off. Green Day? Really? They’re awesome and everything, but really? Considering the previous albums, I find this choice to be utterly puzzling. Please, do not get me started on Number 11. Yeah, that one. I just don’t know what to say. Oh, wait. I know! No. No. NO. And most importantly, where’s Muse? Three albums and you chuck them (Stephenie Meyer’s musical inspiration and Twi favorites) out on the last two? Honestly, I had been completely underwhelmed by the last soundtrack. A couple of good picks here and there, but nothing compared to the overall success of the first two albums. I know I’m being overly critical. I apologize. As is usual, we must wait and see how it all pans out. Tell me, what do you think of the track list?

1. Where I Come From — Passion Pit
2. Bittersweet — Ellie Goulding
3. The Forgotten — Green Day
4. Fire In the Water — Feist
5. Everything and Nothing — The Boom Circuits
6. The Antidote — St. Vincent
7. Speak Up — POP ETC
8. Heart of Stone — Iko
9. Cover Your Tracks — A Boy and His Kite
10. Ghosts — James Vincent McMorrow
11. All I’ve Ever Needed — Paul McDonald & Nikki Reed
12. New For You — Reeve Carney
13. A Thousand Years (Part Two) – Christina Perri
14. Plus Que Ma Prope Vie — Carter Burwell

(Source)

The Breaking Dawn – Part 2 soundtrack will be available November 13, 2012.

What do you think of the track list for the Breaking Dawn (2) soundtrack? Are there any songs you’re looking forward to? Any artists? Are you surprised by the Jack’s Mannequin news? What do you think of the (last) new song? Have you heard The 2nd Law? What is your favorite track on the record? Will you download any of the new releases? Tell me in the comments!

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