My Chemical Romance: SING
After a huge amount of success following 2006’s The Black Parade, My Chemical Romance returned in November with a new album. Danger Days: The True Lives of the Fabulous Killjoys sees the band go in a totally different direction, to the point that we can’t really call them emo anymore.
New single ‘SING’ is further proof that they’ve matured, even past the classic rock influences of their previous record. Whilst the album has some catchier, or more intricate moments, their new single is possibly their most epic. I don’t mean epic in the ‘epically awesome’ way (although, that too). This is a huge anthem deserving of being described as epic.
It’s got a powerful message, albeit one we’ve heard before. It’s about music being a form of protest and saving people’s lives, which is what many My Chemical Romance fans claim the band has done for them.
‘SING’ is more than just an anthem for disgruntled teenagers though. The breakdown is mesmerising, and Ray Toro once again proves his worth as an criminally underrated guitarist. Gerard Way’s vocals have really improved over the years, and he proves this once again with ‘SING’
Lyrically, as well, the band have moved on from vampires and unrequited love to discuss much deeper issues. The song comes from a concept album about a futuristic war in 2019, but it’s more of a metaphor/warning for us today. It’s a little cheesy, but the almost Beatles-esque harmonies towards the end are gorgeous and welcome.
It’s tempting to say that MCR have found their sound after almost ten years, but comparing ‘SING’ to ‘Headfirst For Halos’, ‘I’m Not Okay (I Promise)’ and ‘Teenagers’ show the band’s continual development. Their journey’s been exciting and whether you love or hate them, you’ll just have to follow Gerard’s instructions “sing it from the heart”.
Female First - Alistair McGeorge
Tagged in Gerard Way My Chemical Romance