Gatsby's American Dream - In The Land of Lost Monsters

Gatsby’s American Dream is no longer a reference for a remarkable F. Scott Fitzgerald novel. Since 2001, it’s also been the name of an amazing young alt-emo band from Seattle, Washington. Their 2003 release, Ribbons and Sugar (a concept album on Animal House on Rocket Star Recording) showed us that they were serious about leading the pack instead of merely following. With their latest release, In the Land of Lost Monsters (Fearless Records), they prove yet again that they have staying ability and are incredibly driven. What a difference a year makes! The songs of Lost Monsters indicate a maturing from their previous release as far as the band’s musical capabilities, lyrical composition, and their performance in general. In The Land of Lost Monsters is totally sharp tunes and lively harmonies à la mode. From the minute “Yes, This Is About You” begins, I knew this wouldn’t be just another romp through Emo City. Producer Casey Bates has done an excellent job in capturing Gatsby’s unique potential to not just play their instruments and throw a few words in the mix. It also shows that they work to create songs that convince the listener that “this” song will become their favorite. However, there was a place in which I had a problem with the lyrics. Concerning “You Stole My Story,” I wasn’t too impressed with the lyrical quality, which was just plain weak and the singer’s voice sounds stretched thin when trying to reach high pitches. It was quite offsetting. What wasn’t offsetting was the disc in its entirety. Surely, I was shocked and impressed because…well, I wasn’t expecting too much quality from “just another emo band,” which Gatsby’s American Dream, clearly, is not. They are the alternative. The band took a stand against giving in to the demands of how some labels wanted them to sell their music, and they arranged their success the only way they knew how—with loads of originality and confidence. And isn’t that every band’s dream? [www.gatsbysamericandream.com]