Artist: Funeral for a Friend Album: Memory and Humanity

Year: 2008
Duration: 0:0-1

A Critical Look at Memory and Humanity by Funeral for a Friend

Funeral for a Friend is a band that has made a name for themselves in the alternative rock scene. Their album Memory and Humanity was released in 2008 and is considered one of their strongest works. The album blends their signature emo sound with more experimental elements and tackles heavy themes such as war, loss, and mental health. In this post, we'll take a critical look at the album, explore its standout songs, and evaluate its impact on the music scene.

Funeral for a Friend formed in 2001 in Wales and quickly gained popularity with their debut album Casually Dressed & Deep in Conversation. They were hailed as one of the pioneers of the Welsh post-hardcore scene and became known for their emotionally charged lyrics and energetic live performances. With Memory and Humanity, they aimed to expand their sound while staying true to their roots.

The album opens with Rules and Games, a fast-paced track that sets the tone for the rest of the record. The band's signature guitar riffs are present, but there's also a sense of urgency to the song that wasn't present in their previous work. Waterfront Dance Club is another standout track that showcases the band's ability to blend different genres seamlessly. The song has a dance-punk vibe that's reminiscent of bands like LCD Soundsystem.

One of the most innovative parts of the album is the use of spoken word samples. Charlie Don't Surf features a sample from the movie Apocalypse Now that adds an eerie quality to the song. Kicking and Screaming includes a sample from the documentary The Fog of War that discusses the concept of mutually assured destruction. These samples add depth to the songs and elevate them from simple emo anthems.

While Memory and Humanity is a strong album overall, there are a few missteps. The ballad Maybe I Am? feels out of place among the more upbeat tracks, and the spoken word intro to Beneath the Burning Tree drags on for too long. However, these flaws are minor, and they don't detract from the album's overall impact.

In conclusion, Memory and Humanity is a defining album in Funeral for a Friend's discography. The band took risks with their sound while staying true to their roots, and the result is a cohesive and emotionally resonant record. The use of spoken word samples adds an innovative touch that sets it apart from other emo albums of the time. While not perfect, Memory and Humanity is a testament to Funeral for a Friend's ability to adapt and evolve. If you're a fan of alternative rock or emo, this album is a must-listen.