Search - Appleseed Cast :: The End of the Ring Wars

Appleseed Cast Delivers a Slight Twist From the Norm

saeder_krupp@hotmail.com | Aliquippa, PA United States | 01/08/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"At a first glance, this record would seem to the outside observer to be another one of those "emo/post-hardcore-type-things." After a listen, though, one cannot help to change their mind. The End of the Ring Wars is perhaps one of the most passionate recordings I have ever had a chance to listen to, let alone own.Appleseed Cast has a tendency to perfectly mix the songs between sad, simple tunes and an emotional flurry of guitars and drums. This sometimes occurs within the same song as well, as illustrated by the first track, "Marigold & Patchwork." Christopher Crisci's voice is similar to Jeremy Enigk's from Sunny Day Real Estate; perfectly quiet, yet rattling on softer songs ("December 27, 1990") while at the same time abrasive ("Dreamland"), and capable of sending chills down your spine.The thing that stands out most, however, is the fact that Appleseed Cast uses a saxaphone on some of their songs. The best example is "Untitled 1/2," a near perfect crecendo of jackhammer drumming, bass, sax and duel guitars. The only problem is that bassist Jason Wickersheim only pulls the saxaphone out on a few songs, leaving you thirsting for more. It is also worth mentioning that the drumming of Louie Ruiz is outstanding.All in all, The End of the Ring Wars is a fabulous album. There are a few flaws (some of the songs tend to drag), but everything remains on the up and up.The best part is, the whole album could be considered a "concept album" (stop laughing). All joking aside, the basic outline is that though you may have problems dealing with a loss of a loved one, the best way to deal with it is to hit back with equal force. Isn't that advice we could all use?"

One more step, don't fall down...

A. Kohler | Louisville, KY | 11/15/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Music can change lives. Music can make a grown man cry, and music can make you feel right inside. Very few albums have changed my life in a drastic way. This is one of them...The first time I listened to this CD, I cried within the first minute of the opening track "Marigold and Patchwork". Not because of the lyrics (because the singer doesn't kick in until after about a minute and a half) but because of the pure emotions this music stirred. Intricate yet simple guitars open the first song, the drums kick in, and the pure energy of the song is unleashed. The singer screams "Fall Down Marigold" and you just know that what he has to say is important. You know that there is real meaning and purpose to the song. When a song portrays beauty and emotion so vivdly through both the music and the vocals, a work of art has been created. 'The End of the Ring Wars' is a masterpiece. Every single song on this album evokes emotion. The thick and loud guitars are complemented nicely by the drum and bass work that keeps the songs moving foward. The vocals may sound a little rough to some, but they are raw and true. Screams abound, although there is some singing thrown in when appropraite. The production is top notch, and the art work is a little disturbing but is great as well. What makes this album (and the band) stand out amongst its peers is the emotion. This is not your sterotypical emo record. No whining and no bulls***. This is real, heartfelt, inspirational, emotional music (what "real" (I hate saying that) emo is about).The Appleseed Cast have been making music for years, and continue to today. They created the "Low Level Owl Vol. 1 & 2" series which garnered critical acclaim as they are masterpieces in their own right and showed a real growth and maturity in the band. As far as 'the End of the Ring Wars' goes, it is a true masterpiece that is beautiful and heartfelt, and is a testement to why music is important. This record may not change your life or affect you the way it has me, but it will rock you. Pick this up, it's a beautiful and rocking record.Favorite Songs: Marigold & Patchwork - One of my favorite songs of all time, so amazing. Moment # 72 - rockin great song. Stars - has horns in intro, which is half the song, then vocals kick in, really beautiful, works very well. Dreamland - Rivals Marigold & Patchwork for my favorite song, amazing duel vocals in verse. Wow."

Music that will challange you

S. Alix | NYC | 07/23/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Its very hard to describe this amazing new band I've just discovered. Having listened to "Ring Wars" I immedietley sent out for Mare Vital and their latest Low Level Owl Vol. 1 which I also eagerly await to listen too. This is the kind of music that deserves time to really soak in what they are trying to do with their music. Its like RadioHead meets Nirvana. The lead singer Chris has a really in and out voice, that screams one minute and mumbles lyrics the next. Its hard to make out what he's saying half the time yet the WAY he says it makes you totally understand what hes saying. Their melodies are moving but not typical or pop. Soothing moments where singing doesn't come in for 2 minutes into the song, and the drum work is also amazing as heard in the last track which is an instrumental. I don't wanna rush into their other stuff TOO quickly because I want to truly appreciate each CD with care and awe. Their anything but mainstream and EVERYTHING you'd want in an indie-band. I grew up with Pearl Jam and Stone Temple Pilots and Tool. This is the kind of band that evolved from those days of music. Where innovation was more than adding a DJ. How about adding a saxaphone? In the early 90's lead singers sang from their soul, which leaked hatred and love like blood from a dying patient. I am proud to say, the legacy lives on and AppleSeed Cast is part of it. ~=) Don't take my word for it, do what I did, just take a chance and dive in. Even if it frustrates you, at least they evoked SOME emotion. Which most music today doesn't even do."