Review by Dave Longnecker
An apparition is defined as “a remarkable thing making a sudden appearance.” But sudden is not a word that describes the success of Flicker Record’s latest signing, Kids in the Way. Since being formed in 1997, the band has endured a name change, a bass player turnover, and an overall refocusing of their message. With Apparitions of Melody, their sophomore album and first with Flicker, they produce hard rock with a touch of emo and a powerful in-your-face message.
“Last Day of 1888" deals with the band’s
past experience with being judged falsely. I’d cut my heart
out of my chest and attach it to my sleeve/If I thought you’d think
any differently of me.
“Safety in the Darkness” expresses the regret of burning bridges
in past relationships and longs to make things right with I will find
you there, somewhere in the dark/Buried in between dead and broken hearts/There’s
safety in the darkness. The fear of the unknown often holds us back,
as it is easier to just not deal with it.
My favorite song on the album is “Even Snakes Have Hearts,” which expresses Jesus’ feelings towards Judas’ betrayal. A dark guitar-driven verse leads into an explosive, wrenching chorus of Kiss my face, commit yourself to treason/Now run away, you broke my heart. The song ends with a screaming accusation of, You broke my heart/I hope it’s worth the price you paid/I hope it’s worth the time you gave/I hope it’s worth your life.
“Breaking the Legs of Sheep” and “The Seed We’ve Sown” deal with relationship issues, while “Blind Behind the Wheel” expresses the regret of looking back on past mistakes and wishing you could go back in time. The title track focuses on the temporality of music in an ever-changing world.
“Burn Rutan” is my other favorite song. It blatantly points the finger and states We live like whores/We’re killing dreams for little boys and little girls/It’s our nation... on our way to devastation. The song is a desperate plea for the help of God confessing, We need You again. A heavy chorus and screams make the song even more powerful as it ends with We wash our hands/Of all the blood from innocence that we have shed.
Apparitions of Melody ends with a remake of Tears for Fears’ “Head Over Heals” and the emotional ballad “This Could Be the Song That Will Change Your Heart.” The song is an intimate, moving prayer for restoration, renewal, and faith.
Apparitions of Melody is sure to garner widespread attention for Kids in the Way and Flicker Records. The band displays a lyrical and melodic maturity that is passionate and powerful. Perhaps what impresses me most is their brutal honesty and ability to use it to express the truth in a way that moves the listener. Fans of hard rock, emo, and screamer genres will enjoy Apparitions of Melody while appreciating the message.