The Birthday Massacre – Pins and Needles
Released: September 14, 2010
Label: Metropolis Records
Band Website: thebirthdaymassacre.com
Review by Amy Reynolds
Nearly a year and a half since their release of Show and Tell, The Birthday Massacre released Pins and Needles on September 14, 2010. Maintaining their seminal sound, which can only be described as a fusion of metal, pop, rock, and synth, they have delivered an 11 track CD, congruent with their eerily sweet story telling fashion. As with all their previous music, macabre visions dance in ones head while listening to this new album.
My absolute favorite song from the album would have to be “Controlâ€. It is a very fun dance song that can be easily played at a club. It is also the only song that Chibi uses that low guttural growl in her vocals that she has used in the past.
Another favorite would have to be the second track, “Alwaysâ€. Emotional, it’s the story that everyone can relate to: two lovers falling apart, losing what they once had, and coming to the conclusion that the promises they made they are unable to keep.
“In the Dark†is the first song on the list and one of my favorites. I know I’ve mention Chibi’s voice several times in this review, but I get mesmerized just listing to her. This song is lovely. The heavy drum beats and guitar rifts just contrast her voice, drawing more attention to her sweet vocal talent. It has one of the best videos I’ve seen in a while, as well; it is very visually appealing, creative, and thought provoking. If
you’ve not seen it yet, I highly recommend it. Follow the link here: http://www.thebirthdaymassacre.com/InTheDark/
If you are familiar with The Birthday Massacre and haven’t yet purchased this, I’ll tell you now the band hasn’t changed much and will give you another dose of Chibi’s beautiful lullaby voice. If you loved them before, this release is better in only the way practice makes one perfect. They are staying true to their form. The only difference on this album is I felt there were more metal guitar rifts than in the past. For those not fans of heavy guitar, this may not be a pleasant change.
Over all, the album is a playful yet creepy visit into the mind of a child haunted by nightmares, the mindset of a discarded lover, and the heart of a lonely soul.
Download Pins And Needles from iTunes
Track List:
1. “In the Dark†– 3:42
2. “Always†– 4:11
3. “Pale†– 3:58
4. “Control†– 3:20
5. “Shallow Grave†– 3:47
6. “Sideways†– 3:25
7. “Midnight†– 3:43
8. “Pins and Needles†– 4:19
9. “Two Hearts†– 3:20
10. “Sleepwalking†– 3:49
11. “Secret†– 4:23
