Let me first mention that I am a new to the MMJ forums and am not one who is dedicated to the community of forums of any kind to be honest. Let me also mention MMJ is a very touching band to me, and its music, lyrics, and style is like no other, which has totally won me over, thus making me a very big fan for the past 2 years. However, I came here to voice a very strong concern of mine in regards to Jim's latest album and the content within it. Yeah, I know a bunch of you as far as I've skimmed through most the posts, that you're somehow in love with this new album, which seems contradictory to those who initially were attracted to the band from MMJ's original roots and style. Yes, I understand that Jim's approach on this album was a new attempt and obviously took a chance to emulate their "live sound" and stray from "rock and roll". But, the music has changed far too much, the vocals have changed enough to be dissapointingly noticed, and the lyrics are horrendous to me (I will get to that part momentarily). Mind you, this is strictly my opinion and I have to let this out, so be open minded and put down your guns, if you would be so kind. So, why is it you fans are so won over by this album when it has abandoned the much of the MMJ roots and its original--unique sound? Yes, this album is unique in its own way, but not the unique level that is shared by those of the former albums. The albums with the mystifying wave of music that is emitted from the band that would capture the hearts of those with distinct taste. Now, I just hear something strange and distant compared to what I used to know and enjoy so much. The lyrics are too greatly involved with God, whereas earlier albums seldomly mentioned God. If Jim is spiritual, which I know he is, so be it, but don't make some damn christian rock album, just because you thought it might be a good concept for the album OR because you achieved some greater "connection" with your faith. If I wanted to hear some christian rock, or something of that sort, I'd go to the religous section of the music store. About half the album is dedicated to God it seems, and yes that bothers me, because once again, I was under the impression that MMJ wasn't a religious group, since they'd seldomly even mention anything even related to God. Call this one petty rant with no meaning, but I feel rather decieved by an artist I so greatly appreciate, who then releases a piece of work that is too different in content, which contains that which I despise (anything of religion). That's just me, or, even the many who feel that way but won't say anything due to the masses interwoven with a man made craft called faith. So, all I want to know is, why did Jim put so much emphasis on his beliefs in God all of the sudden, and will this be his new direction? If so, I'm sorry but I will not be capable of enjoying any new work with such relation and style that betrays the roots that won everyone who is an MMJ fan today over. I have also listened to this album six times hoping it will strike me in a positive light, but no light at all. On i-tunes reviews I see many good reviews, but also see a considerable number of the bad, those which have the same confusion as I and greatly disappointed, which gave me some consolation. So, this is a really long pent up passionate cry of 'why?' and I hope it reaches those who share the same concerns. If anyone survived and understands this, please speak now. Thanks...
QuoteMind you, this is strictly my opinion and I have to let this out, so be open minded and put down your guns, if you would be so kind.
My opinion: I don't like you very much.
A christian rock album? Come on....
It's just an album. Did you hear Bonnaroo or RCMH?
Crap, these guys still rock you hard.
So much emphasis on a freakin' album.
It's fine if you don't like me. I actually expect most who read this to be offended in some ridiculous way, but if one is a true MMJ fan, they'd see the error in some experiment gone wrong. And as for the "christian rock" bit? Have you listened to the lyrics clearly or not? They have far too much reference and relation to that which is anything of god/religion. Take it as it is, and hate all you like kind sir.
QuoteIf Jim is spiritual, which I know he is, so be it, but don't make some damn christian rock album, just because you thought it might be a good concept for the album OR because you achieved some greater "connection" with your faith.
First, this isn't a Christian Rock record. But mainly, are you really telling the songwriter here to not write about something he has a connection to? Seriously? We are all entitled to our opinions, even if they are wrong. But for you to think someone shouldn't write about what inspires them, well, that don't make no sense.
QuoteIt's just an album. Did you hear Bonnaroo or RCMH?
Crap, these guys still rock you hard.
So much emphasis on a freakin' album.
There's emphasis because it's an idea to where Jim stands now, and also like I said, I'm a fan of concern who would enjoy future albums produced without such lame content.
QuoteQuoteIf Jim is spiritual, which I know he is, so be it, but don't make some damn christian rock album, just because you thought it might be a good concept for the album OR because you achieved some greater "connection" with your faith.
First, this isn't a Christian Rock record. But mainly, are you really telling the songwriter here to not write about something he has a connection to? Seriously? We are all entitled to our opinions, even if they are wrong. But for you to think someone shouldn't write about what inspires them, well, that don't make no sense.
Well here's what makes sense, friend, is that earlier works didn't possess that lyrical content (or if so very little) which is great in my book, but when you release something which then DOES have such content, and it strays from the original type of lyrical content of former albums, that bothers a person who has conflicting views, and their artist who they adore, now decides to release and display such religious rubbish. Not all of the album is, but about one HALF of it is, and that's a statement. Understand?
Violeteye, I don't agree with you, but you are entitled to your opinion, of course. I can perhaps see why you infer a Christian God from some of the lyrics, but I also think God is a universal thing to a lot of people. I'm not saying I know what's in Jim's heart, but perhaps you needn't be so quick to judge.
Everyone hears things differently, though. That's why art is so interesting. It's totally subjective and open to our own interpretations.
I just have to say this is the 9 millionth thread on whether or not Evil Urges is any good and it needs to stay civil, fine people, or it's getting locked.
Just an early warning because I can see this getting silly based on what I read in the 5,678,355th thread about this topic. :P
Yaaawwwnnnnnnn......zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
Kind of off-topic and I aplogize if it's been covered before but why no lyrics for the album on the site under releases? I think Z's lyrics were up right away...
QuoteLet me first mention that I am a new to the MMJ forums and am not one who is dedicated to the community of forums of any kind to be honest.
I once learned never to trust anyone who says "to be honest"...
(or "to tell you the truth")
QuoteVioleteye, I don't agree with you, but you are entitled to your opinion, of course. I can perhaps see why you infer a Christian God from some of the lyrics, but I also think God is a universal thing to a lot of people. I'm not saying I know what's in Jim's heart, but perhaps you needn't be so quick to judge.
Everyone hears things differently, though. That's why art is so interesting. It's totally subjective and open to our own interpretations.
I just have to say this is the 9 millionth thread on whether or not Evil Urges is any good and it needs to stay civil, fine people, or it's getting locked.
Just an early warning because I can see this getting silly based on what I read in the 5,678,355th thread about this topic. :P
Well said. Guess your the Moderatrix for some reason.
I agree , I'm sick of folks analyzing this album.
QuoteYaaawwwnnnnnnn......zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
Kind of off-topic and I aplogize if it's been covered before but why no lyrics for the album on the site under releases? I think Z's lyrics were up right away...
Gotta buy the album. ;)
Violeteye-
You don't know what you are talking about. You mentioned that you have only been listening to the band for two years. Quess what.. they have been doing their thing for ten years. Do you think a band changes in ten years?...I think that one is obvious. Maybe you didn't really like the band in the first place? Maybe it took this record for you to figure it out. What kind of music do you make? Please don't criticize things like lyrics and sound when you have no idea what you are talking about. Let's hear your music and your lyrics. Christian Rock... Hmmmm...don't think so. Have you heard any Christian rock bands? Maybe if you weren't so narrow in your interpretation of the lyrics it wouldn't just have to be about God. Lyrics can mean anything they want to mean. As far as emulating their live sound. This album is actually the opposite. It is the most produced, most arranged album to date. It has a studio sound. This is something that is hard to emulate live. Before you go on a rant try and do your homework first.
Thanks,
Fan of the Music
Why is it that we have to put up with you atheists who feel it is your right to change everything and run over those of us who believe in God? Piss off and stuff your "opinion" which is actually an anti-religious rant.
Oh yeah and if you don't want religion in your music you better not listen to anything because some form of higher power worship tinges most music (whether its devil worship or connecting to your God).
I bet you want "In God We Trust" off our currency too.
QuoteSo, why is it you fans are so won over by this album when it has abandoned the much of the MMJ roots and its original--unique sound?
I'll give it a shot:
I Wanna Hold You Hand + I Am The Walrus = The Beatles
Blowin' in the Wind + Maggie's Farm = Bob Dylan
Good Times, Bad Times + D'yer Mak'er = Led Zeppelin
Truckin' + Unbroken Chain = The Greatful Dead
I Will Follow + Zooropa = U2
New Day Rising + Thumbtack = Bob Mould
Radio Free Europe + Drive = REM
Fake Plastic Trees + Weird Fishes = Radiohead
Passenger Side + Spiders = Wilco
Eveyln is Not Real + Highly Suspicious = My Monrning Jacket
and it goes on and on and on and on....
Personally, I am glad artists change. Personally, I am glad I change.
This is a process that will always be as long as man continues to search within himself. Change is good.
Being angry that an artist no longer fits in the box you built for them, suspending them in time and space without the opportunity for growth and introspection is silly.
To quote Billy Joel (whom all roads lead back to):
Everybody's talkin' 'bout the new sound
Funny, but it's still rock and roll to me
QuoteQuoteYaaawwwnnnnnnn......zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
Kind of off-topic and I aplogize if it's been covered before but why no lyrics for the album on the site under releases? I think Z's lyrics were up right away...
Gotta buy the album. ;)
I bought it. Haven't memorized the lyrics and sometimes at "work" I want to check on a line or two. I guess you kind of answered my question though.... I never was a good businessman
QuoteYaaawwwnnnnnnn......zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
Kind of off-topic and I aplogize if it's been covered before but why no lyrics for the album on the site under releases? I think Z's lyrics were up right away...
I was actually just about to say that...
I'm not sure where you're getting all these "christian rock" references. Look at You, Smokin From Shootin, and Remnants are the only songs where he references or even suggests a "God". Look at You is the only song where the gospel influences are present, and he never directly mentions God in it. Also, Smokin From Shootin, the one song that does reference God, has the lines "Faith can't prove what science won't resolve". Doesn't sound very "Christian rock" to me. And a one liner about a "designer" in Remnants should not get you riled up. Lots of songs on the album are love songs, and you can take them as you want. It seems like you hate the lyrics on the album just because you want to. Don't pretend that this is a new development either. He specifically mentions that he believes in a "God" in some shape or form in Strangulation and Steam Engine, which ironically seems to be two of their best songs.
You're probably riled up from the Rolling Stone interview where they said the album would have gospel influences. Gospel music is extremely different from Christian rock. Radiohead said that their song "Reckoner" had gospel influences, and that hardly sounds like Christian rock, does it? Music can move someone even if that person doesn't know what's taking him.
Jim often refers to some sort of "spirit" that takes him as he writes. That's not religon. Tons of songwriters say that it seems like this happens as they write. It may or may not be something supernatural, it's just something they can't explain. And since when has writing about the unexplained ever been a bad thing? Take your militant atheism elsewhere. This is My Morning Jacket.
Also, you make it sound like they have completely abandoned their roots. Listen to Sec Walkin and Look At You again and tell me that sounds like anyone other than My Morning Jacket. The roots are there, the branches just continue to grow. If you hate Evil Urges that much, you still have four albums and several eps of good, straight-up MMJ to listen to anytime you want. Some bands will give you an album that you can spend the rest of your life listening to. MMJ has given you four (five if you love Evil Urges).
QuotePiss off and stuff your "opinion" which is actually an anti-religious rant.
Well, that is certainly going to change his mind!
Not a very Christian reaction, methinks.
Also, this...
[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jSFLZ-MzIhM[/media]
oh, and
(http://img100.exs.cx/img100/4372/CELINE_DION_MIRACLE-8.jpg)
and
(http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f296/ycartrob/TN11456_birleanu-1.jpg)
and the trifecta!
(http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f296/ycartrob/brian1-1.jpg)
Quote
Personally, I am glad artists change. Personally, I am glad I change.
This is a process that will always be as long as man continues to search within himself. Change is good.
Being angry that an artist no longer fits in the box you built for them, suspending them in time and space without the opportunity for growth and introspection is silly.
Perfect.
remember when BOB MOTHER FUCKIN' DYLAN went religious? fans were pissed too...they didn't want the dylan of the 60's, the Dylan who writes Masters of War and Blowin' in the Wind to be singing about faith. The fact is though, good song writers sing about what is going on in their lives, whether it be politics, love or religion.
I am attracted to MMJ not only because i think their music is beautiful, fun and timeless, but I also love Jim James as the front man. I love being able to follow his life through his lyrics, interviews, descriptions of songs etc. I think he is a wonderful, insightful and truly interesting person. And shit, if Jim wants to sing about being confused about spirituality, then sing about that. I know though I will forever be interested in what Jim James is feeling and thinking - he can do no wrong in my eyes.
I hear ya though, it's hard to see something you love and are dedicated to all of a sudden change in a direction your not interested in. But when it comes down to it all, and when you go see them live, they're still the good old My Morning Jacket they have always been...maybe even better.
PS - Just wait until you see "Smokin' From Shootin' " live. HOLY SHIT! :o
Jim has referred to, by name, the Lord, God, Heaven, or Hell in every single one of MMJ's major releases, with the exception of Z, which instead has a title track named Gideon.
You people can shit a brick and moan and bitch about this being nothing but a veiled Christian album, but the Judeo-Christian influence has been there since the beginning.
I said long before Evil Urges even had a name that it would be amusing to me to see how many people would be disgusted if Jim wrote a blatantly Christian album. This isn't one, but I see just how bad your panties wad up and it's just sad that your distaste for Jew/Christian influence prevents you from enjoying an awesome album.
Too bad it isn't another album about George Bush, huh?
QuoteJim has referred to, by name, the Lord, God, Heaven, or Hell in every single one of MMJ's major releases, with the exception of Z, which instead has a title track named Gideon.
You people can shit a brick and moan and bitch about this being nothing but a veiled Christian album, but the Judeo-Christian influence has been there since the beginning.
I said long before Evil Urges even had a name that it would be amusing to me to see how many people would be disgusted if Jim wrote a blatantly Christian album. This isn't one, but I see just how bad your panties wad up and it's just sad that your distaste for Jew/Christian influence prevents you from enjoying an awesome album.
Too bad it isn't another album about George Bush, huh?
they wrote a record about george bush? do you want them to write a christian record?
Quote
they wrote a record about george bush? do you want them to write a christian record?
Z is about George Bush
EU is about their devotion to Christ
it replays each of the days
a hundred years of routines
bows its head and prays
to the mother of all machines...
Quoteit replays each of the days
a hundred years of routines
bows its head and prays
to the mother of all machines...
raaaazor sharp ;)
QuoteQuoteToo bad it isn't another album about George Bush, huh?
they wrote a record about george bush? do you want them to write a christian record?
That last line was sarcastic. No, they didn't write a record about George Bush, but a lot of people were wanting to prove at least one song in Z was somehow a protest song.
I don't care if they write a Christian record. I want them to write a record that suits them, not their fanbase. I'm an artist and I believe in letting the artist express themselves...
...but I'm one of those people who has enjoyed every single album no matter how different they are from another.
QuoteQuoteSo, why is it you fans are so won over by this album when it has abandoned the much of the MMJ roots and its original--unique sound?
I'll give it a shot:
I Wanna Hold You Hand + I Am The Walrus = The Beatles
Blowin' in the Wind + Maggie's Farm = Bob Dylan
Good Times, Bad Times + D'yer Mak'er = Led Zeppelin
Truckin' + Unbroken Chain = The Greatful Dead
I Will Follow + Zooropa = U2
New Day Rising + Thumbtack = Bob Mould
Radio Free Europe + Drive = REM
Fake Plastic Trees + Weird Fishes = Radiohead
Passenger Side + Spiders = Wilco
Eveyln is Not Real + Highly Suspicious = My Monrning Jacket
[/i]
I love you.
I mean, I always assumed I loved you in the past.
But now I know.
So there it is.
QuoteQuoteSo, why is it you fans are so won over by this album when it has abandoned the much of the MMJ roots and its original--unique sound?
I'll give it a shot:
I Wanna Hold You Hand + I Am The Walrus = The Beatles
Blowin' in the Wind + Maggie's Farm = Bob Dylan
Good Times, Bad Times + D'yer Mak'er = Led Zeppelin
Truckin' + Unbroken Chain = The Greatful Dead
I Will Follow + Zooropa = U2
New Day Rising + Thumbtack = Bob Mould
Radio Free Europe + Drive = REM
Fake Plastic Trees + Weird Fishes = Radiohead
Passenger Side + Spiders = Wilco
Eveyln is Not Real + Highly Suspicious = My Monrning Jacket
and it goes on and on and on and on....
Personally, I am glad artists change. Personally, I am glad I change.
This is a process that will always be as long as man continues to search within himself. Change is good.
Being angry that an artist no longer fits in the box you built for them, suspending them in time and space without the opportunity for growth and introspection is silly.
To quote Billy Joel (whom all roads lead back to):
Everybody's talkin' 'bout the new sound
Funny, but it's still rock and roll to me
puuurfect.
I do not feel this is a "Christian" rock album. I only feel 1 song really feels like it could be religious, and it does not bother me because it means different things to different people.
this thread never really got serious.
(http://farm1.static.flickr.com/12/17658182_b00b17d959.jpg)
[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xkMfqGvAJSU[/media]
Also, Dorothy, is your avatar Jay-Z doing a pee-dance?
that song is how i'm choosing to celebrate freedom today.
it's actually Jay-Z enjoying the hell out of a Coldplay show. i'm serious. you can't make this up. even better, ricky gervais is in front of him. here's the full
(http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z41/Subbass49/Jay_z_coldplay.gif)
i'm semi-obsessed with this gif.
I don't know, lady. Looks like a pee-dance to me. Or like he and Ricky G are having a "moment."
QuoteLet me first mention that I am a new to the MMJ forums and am not one who is dedicated to the community of forums of any kind to be honest. Let me also mention MMJ is a very touching band to me, and its music, lyrics, and style is like no other, which has totally won me over, thus making me a very big fan for the past 2 years. However, I came here to voice a very strong concern of mine in regards to Jim's latest album and the content within it. Yeah, I know a bunch of you as far as I've skimmed through most the posts, that you're somehow in love with this new album, which seems contradictory to those who initially were attracted to the band from MMJ's original roots and style. Yes, I understand that Jim's approach on this album was a new attempt and obviously took a chance to emulate their "live sound" and stray from "rock and roll". But, the music has changed far too much, the vocals have changed enough to be dissapointingly noticed, and the lyrics are horrendous to me (I will get to that part momentarily). Mind you, this is strictly my opinion and I have to let this out, so be open minded and put down your guns, if you would be so kind. So, why is it you fans are so won over by this album when it has abandoned the much of the MMJ roots and its original--unique sound? Yes, this album is unique in its own way, but not the unique level that is shared by those of the former albums. The albums with the mystifying wave of music that is emitted from the band that would capture the hearts of those with distinct taste. Now, I just hear something strange and distant compared to what I used to know and enjoy so much. The lyrics are too greatly involved with God, whereas earlier albums seldomly mentioned God. If Jim is spiritual, which I know he is, so be it, but don't make some damn christian rock album, just because you thought it might be a good concept for the album OR because you achieved some greater "connection" with your faith. If I wanted to hear some christian rock, or something of that sort, I'd go to the religous section of the music store. About half the album is dedicated to God it seems, and yes that bothers me, because once again, I was under the impression that MMJ wasn't a religious group, since they'd seldomly even mention anything even related to God. Call this one petty rant with no meaning, but I feel rather decieved by an artist I so greatly appreciate, who then releases a piece of work that is too different in content, which contains that which I despise (anything of religion). That's just me, or, even the many who feel that way but won't say anything due to the masses interwoven with a man made craft called faith. So, all I want to know is, why did Jim put so much emphasis on his beliefs in God all of the sudden, and will this be his new direction? If so, I'm sorry but I will not be capable of enjoying any new work with such relation and style that betrays the roots that won everyone who is an MMJ fan today over. I have also listened to this album six times hoping it will strike me in a positive light, but no light at all. On i-tunes reviews I see many good reviews, but also see a considerable number of the bad, those which have the same confusion as I and greatly disappointed, which gave me some consolation. So, this is a really long pent up passionate cry of 'why?' and I hope it reaches those who share the same concerns. If anyone survived and understands this, please speak now. Thanks...
gee Jim talks about God and religion on this album...shocking...nobody has ever touched on those subjects before in Rock and Roll.
it's an awkward .gif all around, that's why i luvz it.
i wonder if jay-z and ricky g talked and if they did, what they talked about. i hope will smith.
And one more thing.......
Ah yes religion and politics.
Nobody wins.
That being said I'm off to celebrate in this great country of ours with a cold homebrew and to thank ''the stars" that we can talk freely about all this stuff. I think I'll even crank EU to get the party started!
:) ;D :)
Ricky was discussing the merits of Willenium while Jay-Z feels that the Hitch theme song is undervalued. They're not on speaking terms.
[media]http://youtube.com/watch?v=XKjPK1Zhvy4[/media]
::peaks in thread, reads a little, pukes a little in my mouth because of the thread starters ignorance, leaves thread::
[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YLDbGqJ2KYk[/media]
I always thought there was subtle spritual references since the very beggining. It was all over the place in It still moves. I always thought that the title of of It still moves was a reference to god in some way. Instead of god being designated as a he or she, i always thought jim was designating god as IT because it is more of a mysterious way in describing that spritual force that binds us.
Also i think if jim wanted to make a christian album, the lyrics would be more overt, but its not. Never has been. I think he is just trying to make sense of faith and god the best way he knows how and he never pretends he has the answers.
Just my thoughts
Go do some research on quantum physics, and then go back and really listen to Evil Urges. You will come out of it with a different meaning.
Jim talks of a "new" heaven, where we are all one; the theory that we are all gods, or a part of something powerful that connects all of us. He isn't preaching christianity, he is talking about the universal religion of connectivity.
that fighting cats video is the best thing i've ever seen. i often feel like that cat at the end that comes in and abruptly ends that fight
i've just concluded that the fighting cat video is the best visual metaphor i've ever seen for this forum
Quotei've just concluded that the fighting cat video is the best visual metaphor i've ever seen for this forum
Especially the barfing part at the end.
god = nature
Quotethat fighting cats video is the best thing i've ever seen. i often feel like that cat at the end that comes in and abruptly ends that fight
;D
the day Jim wears a giant cross will be the day I am convinced his songs are about "religion". Otherwise, i think he's just kinda spiritual -
Where did i read that Jim was doing some spiritual classes? was that in the new RS?
You're acting as if this is a surprise to you. If you cant hear the progression in the albums then I woul have to wonder how closely you've been listening. Your criticisms are funny IMO. Basically you are saying "Why didnt you make the same albums I liked 5 years ago?" If one thing is obvious its that this is not a stagnant band. While early returns may have said they were all about reverb and rock, it has become clear that they are about branching out and letting their sound evolve. Sure, its bound to lose a few fans. Truth be told I couldnt care less.
I gotta be honest though, some of the things you talked about irritated the shit out of me. First of all, you titled this "Why, Jim?". This isnt "Jim's" album. Sure, he writes the lyrics and is the most visible member, but this is a group effort. Its obvious which vital parts each guy brings. To heap all of the praise or criticism on one guy is foolish and wrong. Second of all, you said something to the effect of "Dont write about spirituality because you achieved some greater connection with your faith". This may come as a shock, but Jim (or any other musician) can write about whatever the heeeeeeelllllllll he wants to write about. You didnt commission this work from your own pocket. You didnt ask him to record YOU a personal album. I just cant believe someone could actually suggest what an artist should or shouldnt express through their art. Thats a fucking joke, and a clear indication that our celebrity obsessed culture has continued to grow like a mold to the point where we think artists are supposed to work for us.
If you dont like the album, fine. A lot of people dont. Thats your choice, and I really dont care. But some of the garbage you typed really struck a chord.
Quote god = nature
That's a pretty deep first post my friend.
QuoteQuote god = nature
That's a pretty deep first post my friend.
My world has officially been rocked by this equation.
I haven't seen such a sad misinterpretation of an album/song since Christian fundalmentalists claimed "Hotel California" was about Satanism.
Violeteye you are assuming too much and with lyrics as poignant and mysterious as MMJ's you'll never get the big picture if you're being overly analytical.
It's ok if you don't like the album but not liking it because of a false perception is your fault and not Jim's.
this might just be me, but aren't you going to hear exactly what you want to hear from an album? if i want to see the face of jesus in my cornflakes, then i will see it.
Just because he do.
Quotethis might just be me, but aren't you going to hear exactly what you want to hear from an album? if i want to see the face of jesus in my cornflakes, then i will see it.
And if you do, please PM me, because I would
love to smoke some of that.
Throwing my 2 cents in....
First off, listening to this band, be reminded of the lyrics to "The Way That He Sings". I can tell you in personal experience I didn't get hooked on the band by what exactly Jim was singing. Shit I didn't even care at the time, just beautiful melodies with haunting ethreal vocals completely blowing my mind with each new song that came along.
Secondly if you think Evil Urges is a christian rock album spewing and blowing with religious references than your completely digging and trying to find a reason other than the fact this band has evolved its SOUND. Jim is very vague in these songs. Songs are like poetry and poetry is not the same to everyone. Each has their own interpretation. Hell, sometimes I think Look At You is a sarcastic song having nothing to do with God. The words put together "Look At You" are very condescending in tone and could be just a facetious nod to a certain world leader. But that's me, MY interpretation.
Lastly, being an Atheist myself I kinda get upset when guys like yourself go "God Bashing". Atheism is a belief just like Christianity, Judaism, Islam and Flying Spaghetti Monster followers. So to go out and completely bash something that doesn't fit into your belief you're no better than any Christian evangelical I've seen at Bonnaroo telling us we're all going to hell.
OH OH OH...
one more thing....
if you don't like it,
DON"T LISTEN TO IT! Easy!
Quote
OH OH OH...
one more thing....
if you don't like it,
DON"T LISTEN TO IT! Easy!
This last part is not fair. I think it's good fans have high expectations of their band. When the band lets down the fan, i think it should be talked about it. I have a lot of friends who HATE this album, and it's painful because they use to love them so much...i find that a lot of the criticism is well put, thoughtful and maybe even a little bit true. I just feel differently about the band so I am still able to love their new sound. But its not as black and white as everyone is making it out to be.
PS - Look At You, in my opinion is MMJ's worst song. Worse than some of that early learning shit...
At the same time Touch Me Pt II is in my opinion their best song they've ever made....
QuoteQuote
OH OH OH...
one more thing....
if you don't like it,
DON"T LISTEN TO IT! Easy!
This last part is not fair. I think it's good fans have high expectations of their band. When the band lets down the fan, i think it should be talked about it. I have a lot of friends who HATE this album, and it's painful because they use to love them so much...i find that a lot of the criticism is well put, thoughtful and maybe even a little bit true. I just feel differently about the band so I am still able to love their new sound. But its not as black and white as everyone is making it out to be.
PS - Look At You, in my opinion is MMJ's worst song. Worse than some of that early learning shit...
At the same time Touch Me Pt II is in my opinion their best song they've ever made....
I love 'Look at you', i think it's awesome.
'Touch me part 2' their greatest song?
I'm not so sure about that.
That song is amazing for sure, but they have better songs if you ask me.
I agree that this discussion about 'christian rock' has been kind of boring, but still I wanna bring it up again. Because I'm a bit confused by the lyrics to the song 'Evil urges.' He's talking about people that want to love each other, in a way that is considered 'evil' by people. Now I've been wondering if he means love between gay people, people of different race, or even unmarried people; 'cause that would mean he's addressing really fundamentalist christians who think that kind of love is wrong.
And I wonder if that means that he has people like that in his direct enviroment or maybe he's a part of that community himself, because personally, I do know those people exist, but I feel such a huge distance from them that I wouldn´t even bother trying to communicate with them
/ DISCLAIMER: Before I'm getting in trouble, I'm just talking about homophobics and racists here, I have nothing against belief itself /
So I would think that either Jim really connects with this idea that certain types of love are wrong, because he used to think so himself, or his family thinks so, or something like that, and he's recently liberated himself from that and singing joyously about his liberation, or he is singing about things that everyone thinks is evil; it's an ode to necrophelia! "It ain't evil if it ain't hurting anybody", right? ;)
Good question and good to see you around, O!
QuoteI agree that this discussion about 'christian rock' has been kind of boring, but still I wanna bring it up again. Because I'm a bit confused by the lyrics to the song 'Evil urges.' He's talking about people that want to love each other, in a way that is considered 'evil' by people. Now I've been wondering if he means love between gay people, people of different race, or even unmarried people; 'cause that would mean he's addressing really fundamentalist christians who think that kind of love is wrong.
I like to think he means love your enemy. When I suggest to my fellow Christians that we need to love all Muslims (the declared "evil doers", right?) they give me a blank stare. I think that's a stretch, but that's what I come up with. And I think there's resolution in Remnants.
I came back to this post a while later after completing totally (no surprises whatsoever) anticipating this sort of reaction. You're all enititled to your opinion, and that's just fine. However, it's pretty evident I walked into MMJ cult grounds, which "IMO" find funny dear crazed fans. I really need not argue nor partake in any more discussions regarding this or any other matter, because as afore mentioned these are cult like grounds with a clique like gang, and I have no interest in such a crowd at all, not that you all care but I'm giving you ultimate two-cents. Re-evaluate yourselves a bit and you are the ones in dire need of a damn chill out session, if you'd just take a look at your relentless assault on one's opinion which wasn't ill stated or offensive--just critical. I know how the band has progressed and I 've loved every album except this one. I'm aware of Jim's spritiuality, but the exhibits of his spirituality in this album makes it simply sound like 'christian rock' all together, and I hate that music. The lyrics I still firmly stand the arguement that they're too spiritual and just poorly devised. If they are to be spiritual...be creative like in former albums, they awestruck me, and had a greater sense of mystery and depth. It took more analyzing to discover Jim's meaning. This new album? No, straight forward and cliche in more of the album. I do like some songs, but not enough to give the album much credit. Anyways, still a huge MMJ fan regardless of this crowd's views, just dont like this new stuff. Ok, attack, good bye, and good luck with your cool MMJ cult.
QuoteI came back to this post a while later after completing totally (no surprises whatsoever) anticipating this sort of reaction. You're all enititled to your opinion, and that's just fine. However, it's pretty evident I walked into MMJ cult grounds, which "IMO" find funny dear crazed fans. I really need not argue nor partake in any more discussions regarding this or any other matter, because as afore mentioned these are cult like grounds with a clique like gang, and I have no interest in such a crowd at all, not that you all care but I'm giving you ultimate two-cents. Re-evaluate yourselves a bit and you are the ones in dire need of a damn chill out session, if you'd just take a look at your relentless assault on one's opinion which wasn't ill stated or offensive--just critical. I know how the band has progressed and I 've loved every album except this one. I'm aware of Jim's spritiuality, but the exhibits of his spirituality in this album makes it simply sound like 'christian rock' all together, and I hate that music. The lyrics I still firmly stand the arguement that they're too spiritual and just poorly devised. If they are to be spiritual...be creative like in former albums, they awestruck me, and had a greater sense of mystery and depth. It took more analyzing to discover Jim's meaning. This new album? No, straight forward and cliche in more of the album. I do like some songs, but not enough to give the album much credit. Anyways, still a huge MMJ fan regardless of this crowd's views, just dont like this new stuff. Ok, attack, good bye, and good luck with your cool MMJ cult.
I have 5 points:
1. If you compare TF to Z and everything in between...EU is not that big of a step, and I think it seems to be an appropriate evolution in the bands development
2. I'm not religious in the conventional understanding, and when I listen to MMJ I never think of God. I find it interesting that you think it's Christian just because you think there is a reference to a God. I have never heard MMJ mention the name Christ.
3. Just because people gang up on you because you make a very opinionated post doesn't make this a cult forum, it just means your opininion sucks.
4. If you take any of this too seriously than you are "in dire need of a damn chill out session."
5. That cat fight with the kitten puking at the end is one of the funniest things I have ever seen...
QuoteI came back to this post a while later after completing totally (no surprises whatsoever) anticipating this sort of reaction. You're all enititled to your opinion, and that's just fine. However, it's pretty evident I walked into MMJ cult grounds, which "IMO" find funny dear crazed fans. I really need not argue nor partake in any more discussions regarding this or any other matter, because as afore mentioned these are cult like grounds with a clique like gang, and I have no interest in such a crowd at all, not that you all care but I'm giving you ultimate two-cents. Re-evaluate yourselves a bit and you are the ones in dire need of a damn chill out session, if you'd just take a look at your relentless assault on one's opinion which wasn't ill stated or offensive--just critical. I know how the band has progressed and I 've loved every album except this one. I'm aware of Jim's spritiuality, but the exhibits of his spirituality in this album makes it simply sound like 'christian rock' all together, and I hate that music. The lyrics I still firmly stand the arguement that they're too spiritual and just poorly devised. If they are to be spiritual...be creative like in former albums, they awestruck me, and had a greater sense of mystery and depth. It took more analyzing to discover Jim's meaning. This new album? No, straight forward and cliche in more of the album. I do like some songs, but not enough to give the album much credit. Anyways, still a huge MMJ fan regardless of this crowd's views, just dont like this new stuff. Ok, attack, good bye, and good luck with your cool MMJ cult.
Goodbye.
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