Customer Reviews

Stay What You Are

5 star:		(138)
4 star:		(32)
3 star:		(12)
2 star:		(7)
1 star:		(10)

 

 

A few days ago, I was flipping through my ever expanding CD collection, and came accross one of my first "emo" CD's, Save the Day's "Stay What You Are." I decided to give my old favorite a spin. Within seconds of hearing Chris Conley slowly singing, "This song will become the anthem of your underground...." to a single guitar, I quickly remembered why this album used to be my favorite.

The album opens slowly with "At Your Funeral." A minute into the song the band just starts rocking out; filling you with energy and preparing you for the rest of the album. While this album is an emo classic, it's subject matter tends to stray away from the typical "the-girl-left-me-i'm-such-a-worthless-looser" type lyrics you hear on other emo albums. Yes, relationships are talked about on this album, but along with that are songs about depression, death, and anorexia. SWYA shows how much the band has matured since, "Through Being Cool," their previous, and in my opinion, better album. However, not only is this album more mature, but it's sound is more polished than on TBC.

Every song on this CD is catchy and well written. Another great quality that this album possesses is the fact that you can listen to it any time of day in whatever mood your in. I disagree with those that say that STD sold out on this album. While it does have a poppier, more radio-friendly sound than their previous efforts, it proves to us that STD isn't afraid to expirament with their sound, which I believe is a quality that all bands should possess.

I highly recommend buying this CD, it's worth whatever you pay for it. I guarantee that it will be in your CD player for a long time.

Saves the Day has risen to become one of the most popular acts on the Vagrant Records label and is headlining their Vagrant Across America summer tour. Such popularity is not a mean feat when their label-mates include the likes of punk mainstay Face to Face, and Hey Mercedes, the reconstitution of emo gods Braid. Their first album, on Equal Vision Records, `Can't Slow Down', was true to their Lifetime-esque, New Jersey roots; delivering pop-punk with heart. Their second album (the first on Vagrant), `Through Being Cool', showcased the band's more polished sound, with more hooks and lyrics that were more subtle, though they didn't lose an inch of feeling. Truth be told, they had grown up. In the time between their second and third albums, Saves the Day rode the wave of unforeseen popularity, joining several of Vagrant's summer tours and releasing an acoustic EP in the winter (`I'm Sorry I'm Leaving') that was merely a taste of what was to come.

And now that sound is here. Without false modesty, Saves the Day delivers an album that actually lives up to its own hype. From the first timid notes where lead singer Chris Connelly effortlessly emotes, "This song will become the anthem of your underground," it becomes evident that this album is dependant on his voice, his words. The poetry of this album is clearly as far above `Through Being Cool' as that album was to `Can't Slow Down'. The upbeat tunes contrast heavily with the self-destructive lyrics which betray an inner fragility and sensitivity ("See You").

The stand-out track is clearly "Cars and Calories". It has a different sound from the rest of the album, which looks through a window into another's life, instead of inward. If you ever think that StD can't still rock, songs like "Certain Tragedy" recall their earlier work which is catchy and sing-a-long-able. "Freakish" is a slower, yet inexorable, rock song, and it, coupled with "As Your Ghost Takes Flight" and "Nightingale" are my favorite trio of songs, and, consecutively, make the most enjoyable part of the album.

Actually, I have to admit that's a lie, because the very next song, "All I'm Losing Is Me", is just as undeniable. It's hard to decide on a "favorite song", because every single one is equally compelling. The words of "This Is Not An Exit" recall those first words, the claim to be "... the anthem of your underground" in their lyricism and harmony. Although this song makes a perfect ending to the album, StD elects to rock out with "Firefly" recalling a more pop-punk beginning.

Overall, StD creates a good mixture of the emotional pop-punk that is familiar to them, and the slower, more soulful, lyrics and chords that are still uncertain. Although StD's main demographic is, of course, the young and reckless (re: high schoolers), this is album is also aimed at those young'ins who, like the band themselves, have passed through an age of rebellion and regret and have a bit more perspective. Saves the Day have truly come into their own with this album, and these words from "This Is Not An Exit" couldn't ring truer: "... you walk across the stage, take a bow, hear the applause, and as the curtain falls, just know you did it the best you knew how and you can hear them cheering now..."

When I gave "Stay..." my first listen I was unsure if this album made the cut as a 5 star release. And how I did try and try again to find a fault that would bring this one down to 4 stars. But, I'm glad to say there wasn't a reason for me rate Saves The Day's new album any less than a 5.

Something that may suprise many older Saves The Day fans is the musical maturity heard on this album. Instead of their emo/punk sound that was common on previous releases, "Stay..." offers an alternative and emo split. I've heard many people compare the new style to Weezer, and while I don't completly agree, I can see their point, especially on the track "Certain tragedy".

And, as many have said already, the lyrics are much more personal, even daring enough to step a way from the emo sound a bit. This a very rare occurance in the emo community, and as Saves The Day has proven, it's sometimes for the better.

Normally I don't name my favorite songs on the album, but once in a blue moon I'll take the time to do it. The opening song "At your funeral" has stood out as my personal favorite. Not only because its a great song in general (loved the guitar work), but it hammers the point home that Saves The Day is beginning their evolution as a band.

The only thing I regret is that more emo band's don't take time to do what these guys have done, and grow up. I'm not saying that other emo bands are immature, because I love my emo just as much as the next fan. What I am trying to state is growing up musically can only mean one thing, better music.

Great job by Saves The Day, definetly one of the top albums of 2001.

This is the follow-up album after Through Being Cool. I wasn't sure what direction they would take after Through Being Cool but i am very glad they decided to be like this. This album is filled with melodic anthems that are so wonderful to sing along with. The lyrics are awesome once again. THough it's not as fast as Through Being Cool, it is just as awesome. The lyrics and catchy melodies make up for it. It's a good thing.

"At Your Funeral" (9.9/10)-This seems to be the song that gets everybody hooked into Saves The Day. ANd how could it not? The guitar is catchy, the lyrics are amusing. Everything else is fine. It's a great song.
"See You" (9.5/10)- This is also a super song. Great lyrics. Very catchy. "You want to know who i really am? Yeah so do I."
"Cars & Calories" (9.8/10)- This is such a good song. The lyrics are AMAZING. THey are about girls and their eating disorders and such. Just listen to the song. THe lyrics and the guitar, along with everything else is just great.
"Certain Tragedy" (9.7/10)- This song is catchy as well. Lyrics here are unbelievable. The guitar is great. "And i can finally see that the further we go, we're only treading ground, that we already know." And also, "I could write you a note, sing you a song, or empty out your trash. And buy a bucket full of diamonds but even the most beautiful of all roses must someday crumble to dust and fade away, it's certain tragedy."
"Jukebox Breakdown" (9.7/10)- I love this song. Isn't it weird that this song, number 5, starts off with drums, just like in Through Being Cool, with "Holly Hox, Forget Me Nots"? I don't know. I find it cool. ANyways, it is a fun song to sing along with. Very catchy. The riffs are pretty good.
"Freakish" (9.9/10)- I LOVE this song. It is sooooo good. Very catchy. The chorus is beautiful. The words are so heart-felt and amazing. Everything is awesome in this song. "Well here i am, i don't know how to say this. The only thing i know is awkward silence." And also, "I'll make my way across the frozen sea behing the blank horizon, where i can forget you and me, and get a decent night's sleep."
"As Your Ghost Takes Flight" (9.8/10)- Sooooooooo catchy. Just listen to it. They lyrics are a little graphic, but hey, it's catchy. Awesome song. "You've become a ghost. You're floating somewhere in between the waking world and a landscape of dreams."
"Nightingale" (10/10)- This is one of my ALL-TIME favorite Saves The Day songs ever. I love this song. The whole song has great lyrics. The guitar work is soooo beautiful. The drums and bass accompany it well.
"All I'm Losing Is Me" (9.7/10)- Pretty good song here. The lyrics are pretty good. Just a nice solid song.
"This Is Not An Exit" (11/10)- THIS IS ONE OF MY ALL-TIME favorite songs ever. I love love love this song. The lyrics. The music is just mind-blowing. Everything is perfection here.
"FIrefly (10/10)- I love this song very much as well. Such a great song to end this album with. I have never shut off this cd without listening to this song for about ten times before i finally stop. Just simply amazing. Everything.

Overall, this cd is soooooooooo amazing. Just buy it. It is well-worth the money, and then some.
Buy it if you love catchy music, brilliant lyrics, and just songs that you can dance to.

well this album took me a little off guard. i have been a fan for a while and have seen the band several times. their first album "cant slow down" was very enegetic, rough, and emotional. and remains my favorite. their second album "through being cool" slowed down the breakneck tempos and showed improved musicianship. which leaves us with this album. when i first heard that it was going to be more mellow then "through being cool" i was skeptical. being a fan of the early days of the band most i was worried that they had become a pop rock band. and yes this album is much more pop influenced. but it is absolutley amazing. the band has are all first rate musicians and it shows in these songs. intricate guitar and bass lines mix with simple but effecive drum beats. also with the softer songs chris' lyrics come to the forefront and this is for the better. one of the best lyricist in the scene and his words really shine here. "this is not an exit" and "as your ghost takes flight" showcase some very touching lyrics. all in all this album is great. i actually would have given it a 4.5 but there is one song i do not enjoy, "nightengale". still the album is great. standouts are "as your ghost takes flight", "firefly", and "jukebox breakdown" i suggest buying this album and also seeing them when they come to your city, they put on a great show.

I had not layed an ear on a Saves the Day album before Stay What You Are. I had dismissed Saves the Day as another "whiny emo band." Well, I got over being too cool to listen to Emo, and gave this album a chance. Initially I dismissed the lyrics as being a whine, but the hooks, incredibly catchy. And after several listens, I got over the vocals.

Clocking in at just around 30 minutes, this is simply one of the most amazing rock albums recorded. Yes, rock. I can't classify this as emo OR punk. The album is full of melody, and catchy riffs and hooks. I could start rattling off the best songs on the album, but I can't...they're all good. But if you must have the best, I'll go with "This is Not An Exit" which is one of the most uplifting songs I've heard.

This album...you should buy it. Trust me. This album is so good, I even purchased the vinyl.

So what if these guys aren't punk anymore. So what if all the 14 year old girls at Hot Topic think this is what emo is all about... labels and scenes aren't important, the music is, and as poppy and cheesy as this album is, these are some awesome songs. Tracks like "See You" and "Freakish" stuck in my head after only a couple of listens, and when I finally bought the album, the rest of it made it's way into my conciousness within a couple of weeks. This is just basic catchy power pop, nothing too fancy, with some clever lyrics and nice basslines. As much as it's not cool to like Saves the Day, this is better than anything scene darlings such as Superdrag have put out, and overall this is a very fun listen.

This disc is E-X-C-E-L-L-E-N-T. I have been looking for a new band that can SIMPLY ROCK with great vocals, electric guitars, power chords, melodic tunes, and attitude. Saves the Day is such a band on this completely entertaining album, Stay What You Are. I bought this disc based on recommendations from other listeners, and I am so glad I did ' it has been a dominant spin in my CD player since my purchase.

Is it emo? Is it punk? Is it pop? To me Stay What You Are sounds like a combination of all three.

As a stable tenor with full vocal expression and relentless spirit, Chris Conley's voice is perfectly suited for this kind of music. Infectious power chords back him as he sings about crazy things like drinking blood or being a freak. It's hard to take the lyrics too seriously, but as crazy as they are, they somehow make the music more appealing. At first I felt strange singing along with lyrics like, 'And I drink your blood and feel it dripping down my throat as it heads for my heart' (as sung in 'As Your Ghost Takes Flight'), but now I don't think twice about it! The lyrics are just so different from most of the other music I hear that these are actually refreshingly unique.

With one exception, all songs on the album are up-tempo rockers. The exception is 'Freakish,' which is slower tempo and resembles a ballad, showcasing the band's versatility and convincing the listener that Saves the Day is not only about hard driving music ' they can successfully deliver on the more touching, emotional side too.

The opening track, 'At Your Funeral,' starts slow and purports to become an anthem: 'This song will become the anthem of your underground.' As the guitars kick in and the tune picks up, the listener is persuaded that this song could, in fact, become an anthem for Saves the Day. It's powerful.

Following the engrossing opening track, this disc never lets go. Every song on Stay What You Are is great. I began writing a list of my favorite songs here, but I ended up naming all of them! The disc as a whole is just that good. It gets my highest recommendation!

After listening to all of Saves the Day's work, I can easily say that Stay What You Are is the prime example of what Saves the Day means to me. The entire CD is packed with incredible melodies, energetic rhythms, wonderfully off-kilter lyrics, and lovely vocals.

At Your Funeral- This song got me hooked on Saves the Day. At the beginning of the song, Chris Conley's voice cuts through the air like a crystal. It still gives me shivers. His gorgeous voice then merges with energetic, bouncy guitar. A little repetetive, but it's just a song to belt out over and over.

See You- The first thing that caught my attention about this song was its strange lyrics: "My gut is burning/won't you find me some water/just forget it bring me some gasoline/collect a couple of forks/hold them three feets apart/wait for lightning to strike to burn me up". The chorus really shines in this song. Like At Your Funeral it's quick, bouncy, and fun.

Cars & Calories- Heavy guitar riffs over and over in the background make the song interesting-- not the most pleasant to withstand, but still good. In this song it again shows Saves the Day's ability to transition from fast and energetic to slower and more ballad-like. Good lyrics about a life wasting away, too.

Certain Tragedy- This song is one of the more unique ones on the album, it never caught my attention right away, but it definitely grew on me. All I can basically say is that it's a really great feel-good song.

Jukebox Breakdown- This song, like See You, opens with lyrics that caught my attention, and just gives me an appreciation for the oddly witty lyrics that Saves the Day comes up with.

Freakish- The slowest song on the album, Freakish is beautifully heavy and sad; it just sounds like Chris is putting his soul into this song. It also demonstrates Chris's falsetto ability.. haha. It's just a generally beautiful song that I'm sure a lot of people can identify with.

As Your Ghost Takes Flight- This song is amazing because it's one of the most outrightly violent songs I have ever heard, yet it took me ages to realize how violent it was. It's ironic, the music sounds so beautiful and Chris sounds so jolly singing the song. It's kind of a nice anti-emo song that says "You hurt me, screw sitting around and moping, I want to cut you!"

Nightingale- This is a love song that is a great alternative to "Baby I love you we'll always be together blah blah blah" with a very catchy chorus and beautiful lyrics filled with vivid imagery.

All I'm Losing is Me- Reminds me a bit of Cars & Calories with the heavy guitar/drum background. It comes through with amazing lyrics.. it's like Saves the Day isn't trying too hard to be poetic.. they're just writing normal words, and yet everything comes together to be amazing. Sometimes this song is hard to listen to with the heavy background mixed with Chris's voice. The music doesn't make this the best or catchiest song on the CD, though.

This is Not an Exit- This is, by far, my favorite song on this CD. The intro is gorgeous and catchy and leads into a sort of laid-back song with beautiful melodies and vocals. The lyrical messages are uplifting and positive and contain one of my favorite lines: "And if the hook sets in the bottom of our lungs, we'll rip it out and lick the blood off with our tongues".

Firefly- This song is an energetic close to a wonderful album.

Overall, this Saves the Day cd has it all- lovely melodies, witty and meaningful lyrics, catchy guitar, and energetic rhythms. It's my favorite feel-good CD, and is completely fitting to drive around to and sing along to.

Saves The Day's newest and biggest album does not come as a disappointment in any way. True to form, it retains the heavily emotional lyrics displayed in previous releases, but Stay What You Are backs these self-observant revelations with catchy beats and singalong choruses.

The album kicks off with "At Your Funeral", a catchy radio pleaser that discusses the death of a peer. Next is "See You", a sarcastic tune about a breakup with a chorus bound to make you smile. "Cars and Calories" it a bit more toned down and melancholy with introspective lyrics that detail the frivolity and materialism of society between staccato beats.

Stay bounces back with track 4, "Certain Tragedy", a tale of helpless devotion and inevitable relationship downfall. "Jukebox Breakdown", one of my personal favorites on the CD, covers up bleak verses with a brilliant harmony and heavy guitar.

The album takes a major turn with "Freakish", the slowest tune on the CD and one of the most blatantly upsetting. Lead singer Chris Conley's plaintive mourning over a disastrous breakup climaxes with the chorus's "Well here I am/ don't know how to say this/ only thing I know/ is awkward silence". However, Stay picks back up with "Your Ghost Takes Flight", which is no less bitter than "Freakish" but allows listeners to revel in Conley's scathing wishes for vengeance through metaphorical vampirism and crucifixion (be not alarmed, however, it's not blasphemous in any way). Next is "Nightengale", a song bursting with youthful adoration and the promise of lasting devotion in the face of adversity. This is the song my friend and her boyfriend chose as "their song" and it really does fit that description.

Again, the album changes course with "All I'm Losing Is Me", starting out with a heavy drum beat and gritty guitar. Conley envisions himself "mixed up with the morning's trash", evidently downtrodden and yet still vaguely optimistic, bouncing back with "But it's ok/ cause I'm still breathing and my hands are free of the heap". Following the pessimism of "All I'm Losing" is the most uplifting track on the CD and one of the most uplifting songs in recent punk/emo history. "This Is Not An Exit" advises listeners to not dwell on their past mistakes and to simply allow themselves to continue on the river of their lives with the understanding that as long as they have lived their lives the best they know how, they have not failed despite hardship. This track is by far my favorite on the CD. Learn the lyrics, they are more meaningful than the equally upbeat tune.

Finally, "Stay What You Are" closes out with "Firefly", a truly punk confection that rolls sex and alcohol into yet another metaphor of adolescent devotion. However, take this with a grain of salt- Saves the Day may spout lyrics reminiscent of the teenage-angst emotional rollercoaster, but they do it with a great amount of grace and with words penned straight from the heart. This is not another whiny, woe-is-me album, it takes the highs and lows of life and turns them into fast-paced, fun melodies and deeply introspective, sometimes haunting lyrics. In all, a great success and very listener-friendly album that will keep it in your CD player until you can sing all the songs backwards with your eyes closed.