Search - The New Amsterdams :: Never You Mind

Doot-doot-pause-doot-doot

Nicola Monat-Jacobs | Brooklyn, NY | 06/28/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

"The Get Up Kids have developed a pretty solid fan base over the years, becoming one of rock's most solid "emo" bands. With two records, and two EPs under their collective belts, the band's sound has become a mainstay of the indie rock world. However, that's not enough to stop the band's front-man, Matt Pryor, from developing side projects with a different sound. Already the sometimes-rock, sometimes-metal, sometimes-who knows? spoof band, Reggie and the Full Effect has proved that, even when joking, Matt and Co. can still rock your socks off. Now, he takes a different approach: his first solo project, the New Amsterdams, is an acoustic, lyric-driven album, but it doesn't skimp on the chords, either. The tracks betray a vulnerability; a result of too many betrayals and broken relationships. The only danger is that the songs may start to blend together, but Matt is able to vary the pace enough to keep a listener attentive enough to hear his beautiful and heartbreaking lyrics. A great album, enough to make one eager for the release of his up-coming split with Dashboard Confessional."

If you like sad songs about girls. . .

Jessica Baxter | Tacoma, Washington United States | 10/18/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"The Get Up Kids have progressed beautifully from a catchy emo/punk band to a band with a sound all their own. The New Amsterdams which is Matt Pryor, et al's side project is no exception. This album is a must have for any Get Up Kids fan as well as anyone who likes the more mellow tracks on their other albums. Also, the Get Up Kids do some of the best covers I have ever heard. Their cover of the Afghan Whigs' "When we two parted" is exactly what a cover should be; both an interpretation of the song that makes it their own, and a tribute to the original artist. I could go on and on about Matt Pryor's ability to write poignient lyrics and catchy melodies. But I shant. Just buy the album and you shall see what I mean!"