Monty Are I: Break Through The Silence Review

Monty Are I is a band that not many people have heard of, maybe because of their style of music, or maybe because the name of the band is not as accessible as easier names to remember or research like "Green Day" or "Yellowcard". And I think this is a shame to rock culture to be perfectly honest. Because these guys are damn good. Ever since I heard the song "In This Legacy" off their debut record in 2006 "Wall Of People", I knew this was not your everyday, run-of-the-mill group. The one word I would use to describe these guys would be epic. Their music does branch into experimental territory at times, but for the most part, the addition of keyboard/synths, trombone, trumpet, and in some songs, violin, viola, and cello make for epic rock anthems that would normally guarantee any band fame. If you are looking for something new to rock out to or if you are tired of the same old, same old, look no further, because I personally guarantee this band will blow you away.
1. Break Through The Silence- Remember what I said about epic? Apply it here. The first track of "Break Through The Silence" starts off with one of the greatest guitar/bass/drumming throwdowns I've ever heard. A solid and catchy beat that really allows lead singer/guitarist Stephen Aiello's vocals to shine, and guitar/trumpet man Ryan Muir's vocal contributions are a welcome addition as well. The middle of the song shows some intensity with some background synthing from keyboard/trombone man Andrew Borstein. Michael Matarese's bass is great as well. Lyrically, this song conveys a very hopeful message with dynamic execution. 10/10
2. The Stand- I'm not sure why, but the beginning of this song reminds me of Maino's "All The Above" featuring T-Pain. Kinda cool/random tidbit. Another hopeful message is seen here, with a touch of resilience. This is a very accessible song to rock fans, and the constant strumming in the background is pretty cool if you look for it. Aiello's vocals excel in this song as well, and the accompanying background harmonizing is a pretty cool touch. 9.5/10
3. Hope- A song that expresses desperation for hope in a tough time. Another epic start with some awesome guitar schemes. Violins and other instruments also add to the drama of the song, at one point giving it almost an Arabic-themed feel. This is a very cool song with a good message that anyone can rock out to. Oh and I guarantee someone will wet their pants at the end of this song at a live performance. 10/10
4. One In A Million- The first single from Monty Are I has a sort of trippy beginning that picks up speed once the chorus hits. I like the whole idea about being one in a million, but if this song were to receive any criticism, it would be repetitiveness, particularly concerning the background vocals of "I AM..." There is a solid guitar breakdown in the middle of the song that is soon accompanied by some good vocals. The end of the song also features one hell of a musical beatdown. 9/10
5. Making Sounds- A more mellow song in comparison to the last four songs, the song begins with some soft vocals that also proves Aiello can hit a remarkably high/creepy note if needed. It sounds remarkably similar to the slow songs on Linkin Park's new album "Minutes To Midnight". The chorus is one of those songs that one can picture any girl falling in love with and singing at the top of her lungs in her room. This song fits in with the mood of the album about standing out in the crowd, fighting the monotony of silence and despair, and being something special. Not my personal favorite, but still a very solid entry. 8.5/10
6. Sand Riders Doomsday- Apart from having a very creative name, the instrumental beginning really testifies to the group's adversity, as does the chorus, which would make even Patrick Stump cringe with jealousy for not thinking of it first. The vocals for the chorus are once again highly appealing, and the electronic supplement gives this song a unique feel. This song would be the most stylish on the album if not for the next song.... 8.5/10
7. Kaleidoscope- A slow beginning gives way to the catchiest chorus on the album. Lyrically this is as good as it gets, and just the entire sound of this song is incredibly stylish, especially when the trumpets kick in. I can't really describe this song any further because you really just need to listen to it to understand how cool it is. 10/10
8. All Of You- As if these guys didn't have enough variety, now fans get a chance to hear a slow song. A beginning that may remind some of Hellogoodbye, but certainly proves to be a little more heartfelt. Aiello's softer vocals are a highlight of the song, and the lyrics are simply romantic. A very sweet song that is perfect if you're looking for a song to fall asleep to. 9.5/10
9. On The Wire- The beginning of this song certainly reveals the band's experimental qualities until the chorus hits which is just incredibly likable. The repetition of "the rain the rain the rain the rain"/"the pain the pain the pain the pain" may be seen by some as unappealing, but it my opinion it makes the song that much better. A solid rock song with a good build-up leading into the final chorus that mixes it up a little bit, keeping the song from being repetitive. A very good entry. 9/10
10. Desert- A sweet blend of guitar and trumpets kicks this song off right, and Ryan Muir's vocals to begin is a nice change-up. The instruments are seen throughout the song giving it a stylish feel that people who are not even usually rockers will be drawn to. Lyrically solid once again. Not the highlight of the album, but it definitely strengthens its appeal. 9/10
11. Mirage- Another instrumental beginning that is Arabic-esque gives way to a very slow and dramatic chorus. It is a haunting entry in the album that will really speak to some and fail to impress others. Personally, I appreciate the song for what it is, even if it is relatively short. 8/10
12. Convoy Of Angels- As you can tell, this album features some of the most creative and stylish names on any album, but these songs can actually back it up. This song starts off slow and mysterious, but quickly gives way to some guitar riffs that can only be characterized as kickass. The fast-paced strumming and drum beat from Justin Muir allow for another guitar to come in and add even more style. The chorus is awesome lyrically and vocally as well, really accentuating the agony and desperate need for assistance. Not a typical song used to close off an album, but this song tears it up so I really don't care. This song shows off every member of the band, because the vocals, guitar/bass, and drumming are dead on. 10/10
Overall: 111/120
Monty Are I took their great debut and stayed true to who they are as a band while expanding on their sound, which is the definition of a great sophomore effort. They maintain their definition of epic music and add some flair to it. This is for fans of Saosin, rock music, or just great music in general. Join me in recognizing a band that deserves recognition for how awesome they are. This is a unique band that will go places. Next up this week is Pillar's new album, "Confessions". Thanks for tuning in. Rock on.