There was a great article on NPR regarding the challenges of digesting super-sized albums. As a father of 3 with a full-time job, 80 minute albums provide quite the challenge as it is tough to find the time during car pools and phone calls. The big 80 minute album in my life now is The Most Lamentable Tragedy, which is referenced in the article.
I have been listening to TMLT in fits over the last month on a variety of listening devices. Five songs here. Eight songs there. Listening to such a personal piece of music makes it very difficult to form any reasonable conclusion on the album. I’ve had only two opportunities to listen in full twice. And truth be told, only one of them was I able to crank it up on quality speakers.
For those not familiar with Titus, they are a Jersey punk band. The man behind Titus is Patrick Stickles, an opinionated gentleman that has suffered from manic depression and battles with a selective eating disorder. His interviews are always an interesting read and his twitter feed is not for the faint of the heart. Stickles is an well-read intelligent man who is deeply convicted to his principles and beliefs.
TMLT is a massive sprawling, brilliant, messy masterpiece. The story of the protagonist is one of despair, redemption and one that returns to despair. It is a five piece rock opera that sounded ridiculous when I first heard the idea, but one that Stickles has made work. I’d be lying if I said I can break down this album in any sort of intelligent manner as it isn’t a story that is easy to follow along. Its more of a feel album with moments that will make you blow you out of the water.
For now, TMLT is a great collection of songs with some major highlights on it. Over time I plan on growing into this album and delving into the story where I can fully comprehend it. Really long-term, I hope this album means as much to my kids as Quadrophenia means to me.
Follow me on Twitter at @WoodyHearYa or @HearYa
Titus Andronicus is here
