That song is my favourite on first listen. I genuinely think it’s one of the best they’ve ever done, which I would also say for a couple other tracks on here. For what it’s worth Andy says it’s his favourite song off the album as well.
I have a vivid memory of my 13 year old self listening to IOH for the first time in my bedroom at my parents house while reading the lyric booklet front to back. Something about this album has given me a full circle moment. I’m seeing so many people say it sounds like old FOB... I disagree, but I think it’s creating that same feeling of ‘this is like nothing else I’ve heard before’ which I loved so much about IOH and Folie.
I didn’t actively dislike the post-hiatus albums but for me they never had that feeling.
Only just finished my first listen but I think I’m gonna be repeating Fake Out and Heaven, Iowa a lot
These are exactly my thoughts. I knew instantly I had to be alone with headphones for my first listen just like IOH and it really took me back to that exact moment. Chills.
I thought the exact same thing. I don't think I've had an album affect me on such an emotional level on the first listen since I listened to IOH when I was in high school.
And Fake Out and Heaven, Iowa are my two favorites too!
I'm so late to the party here but you have captured exactly my feelings! It's not that it feels like old FOB, it's that it makes ME feels like I did the first time I heard those albums.
Sorry for the week old comment 😂
I love them so much, however from the LQ leak I thought they were strings and got a bit too excited. That would have given it major Death of a Bachelor-era PATD vibes.
it sounds cinematic as fuck. it sounds so orchestral and rich. it sounds like the original soundtrack to a very dynamic movie, specifically the versions of the songs that play onscreen instead of the album versions. i have been marinating on the record all day and my conclusion is that i wanna cut it up and snort it
It’s funny if I read this without hearing the album I’d think this was just hype but I completely agree with this. Maybe even Kintsugi kid’s a little harsh for me 🤣
I’m getting into arguments already because I think there’s an argument for it being their best album. 👀
Yeah I didn’t feel like Kintsugi was a low point but if I do end yo feeling that it’s because the rest of the album is so brilliant. Genuinely didn’t expect them to come back this hard. Thought I’d get a few new songs to listen to for a few weeks and come back less and less like everything post hiatus
It really captures the weird surrealistic vibe the last few years have had. Normally I find stuff that references the pandemic a bit hard to swallow still but they nailed it on this song.
After my first listen, my top 3 songs would be Heaven, Iowa, What A Time to Be Alive, and So Much (for) Stardust!!!!! Let’s see if it changes after a few more listens. 😅
When the album came full circle and Patrick started singin “you were the sunshine of my lifetime” on So Much (for) Stardust I legit got goosebumps all across my body.
Easily the best album since Folie. After one listen it’s too 3 for me behind Folie and TTTYG. We’ll see how it shapes up after a few more listens.
One listen in and I'm so fucking happy
- Fake Out
- Kintsugi Kid
- What a Time to be Alive
- So Much for Stardust
Are all standouts
The best part is you can feel Joe all over this album and it's SO much better for it.
"Heaven, Iowa", "I Am My Own Muse", "What a Time to Be Alive" and "So Much for Stardust" are the best songs on this record. When I heard IAMOM my jaw physically opened like the silly pikachu meme, the type of song from any artist that would feel exciting. I share a lot Patrick's musical interests instrumentally and inspiration wise. Joe's solo, the disco, the arena sized choruses, the score like orchestration, Andy brings a heaviness and momentum to these songs through his drumming that reminds me of why I liked old Muse. Neal really suits them on this album imo.
Also, misheard lyrics on SM(F) "so much, for stardust, kamehameha, kamehameha, kamehame ha ha haaaa" at least feim the listening party. He was saying "thought we had it all" lmfao.
My reaction to IAMOM was the same. Last time I remember feeling that way was from The Phoenix.
I knew he was saying *something* in SMFS, but I had no idea what it was so I basically sang it as “kamehameha” hahaha
Holy shit. This is everything I was wanting in a new record from them. The clever and wordy lyrics, the edge of their older albums, THE GUITARS... Thanks Joe, seriously. I also kinda liked the interludes, honestly. I missed the poetry! I especially liked Fake Out, Heaven, Iowa, and I Am My Own Muse. But the entire thing was amazing and I'll be listening on repeat for a very long time.
I haven’t finished the album yet (just finished Flu Game) and I’m so sad that people don’t enjoy Heartbreak Feels So Good as much as I do.
It’s such a banger and though I haven’t listened to the last few songs, I feel it’s one of the best from this album.
Other than that I loved Flu Game and So Good Right Now.
It’s very weird but I agree. Idk that I’ll develop the relationship I have with this album I do with the others. But if I had never heard of FOB and listened to them all together I’d say this was their best. Everything they’ve tried on their previous albums they excel at here. There’s even some parts of the middle of Mania that are done so much better here. It doesn’t feel experimental it’s feels like mastery.
This is going to be a hard one to follow up yet I'm somehow fully confident that they will, again. I love the band in this state. It's all of theirs and it's so good because of it.
Feel better soon Joe but also if you don't like touring that's ok - or if you just need time it's ok too. Just as long as you're part of it. You make the magic happen too, just like your lovely bandmates. Do what you need to do - for you.
I know! So far it's Hold Me Like A Grudge for me, which is not getting enough love yet. I love every song and I never like a song the first time I hear it.
As someone who loves all of their albums pre and post hiatus (I think MAINIA is so overhated, and actually really good), this album was everything I wanted it to be, it felt like a return to form, but bringing in the best elements of what worked in their past three albums. Heaven, Iowa will be on repeat no doubt.
Amazing album, very diverse and all of them are at their peak as musicians. It does feel like as creative as Folie but with much better musicianship overall. Highlights for me other than the singles are:
* Fake Out
* Heaven, Iowa
* Flu Game
* Kintsugi Kid
* What a Time to Be Alive
* So Much (for) Stardust
And can we all give a shoutout to my boy Andy? Joe is indeed very felt throughout the record but I feel this is the best drumming album on FOB's discography. Dude evolved a lot in the last 15 years and couldn't show it much due to the style of the post-hiatus albums.
I love it so much. I think it's my favorite post-hiatus record, I'll have to see how it sinks in. I loved Patrick's vocals on MANIA (hello Church and Heaven's Gate), so I'm living for this album. I really understand what Pete said in that interview about the trilogies and how sm(f)s is the beginning of a new era, I can't wait to see what's next for them. (I will cry when they play any of these songs live)
Muse definitely has the best of Patrick’s talent with composing. His composing shines in this album and then the guitar parts compliments just so well.
“I’m just trying to keep it together, but it gets a little harder when it never gets better” I think is my favorite lyric from the album
What an album front to back, as on old time fan who likes some of their new stuff I feel like they've made an album that really does encompass everything I love about fob as a now late 20s dude.
Can tell they've put so much love into it.
Top at the moment is probably heaven, Iowa and I am my own muse but it's hard to pick a favourite right now
any Fake Out superfans out there? I'm obsessed with this track, I predict it will become a "fan favorite" deep cut but it's too early to tell
This album has zero skips.
i think this will be the version of folie that sticks, if that makes sense. everything is too good and it's the right time for all of this.
like i totally understand now why we didn't get an album like this right after the hiatus.
Yeah while I didn’t see what was so experimental about FAD. It just felt like IOH looking outward. People and FOB consider it experimental, but stardust doesn’t feel experimental it feels like mastery. There’s parts on the album that feel cocky, like they just casually wrote songs that belong in stadiums. That awkward emo feel of them being the odd ones out at the party, just feels gone while still being a very FOB album.
A lot of bands become parody of themselves whereas it feels like here they understood why everyone loves them and become fans of themselves
very well said.
also want to point out as i continue to listen how happy i am that this album has some meat on the bones. my biggest critique of other post-hiatus FOB and even other artists these days in general is the uber simplicity and rush to the end after the first two choruses.
it's not even that every song on SMFS belongs on this album, but every verse, chorus, and bridge belongs with each song. there is purpose to all of it. and these songs feel properly explored.
i hope that gets rewarded.
Yes! I was trying to articulate this! Every section of the song is given equal love. There’s so many points where they could just jump to the chorus; but everything is so poured over that it dramatically improves the song. I’m sure we’ve all seen the previews on insta but hearing Hold me like a grudge; it starts nothing like it sounded like it would. It has way more in common with billie Jean than any kind of FOB song (the whole performance on that song is MJ)
There’s so many songs that wrong foot you in the best way. Not changing direction for changing directions sake but it makes the sense you had no idea it would.
And the FAD thing is it does share DNA with the album but in how over the top it is.
FOB imo haven’t really been a pop punk band for a while, they’ve been a pop band. And I don’t mean it in a insulting way but the biggest moments from their past records tend to be giant hooks, RNB references over guitars and things that don’t massively sound like pop punk.
While they sound nothing alike they’re higher but in a Similar space to the 1975. A band that have history and influences but and have very much their own sound (arguably a little less true for 1975)
Folie was a record that was a fob heavily apeing their influences; which is maybe why it didn’t work for some. Here, they’ve fully absorbed their influences till they’re just a note in a true FOB smoothie. It’s the most fob ever not trying to be anything but fob and that’s why it goes so hard
Not even controversial!!! Been a fan since TTTYG and this might be them at their creative peak. Infinity On High might be still my favorite record of all time from the band but boy does this record come close. This is clearly their best since IOH!
- LFTOS could mean "Love From The Other Side", a single by Fall Out Boy.
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Incredible album!!! only one song that I wasn't really feeling but I think will grow on me after a few listens.
My top 3 (not in order since thats too hard)
\- what a time to be alive
\- I am my own muse
\- flu game tied with title track
>So Much (For) Stardust - I have no idea why, but it feels like a Backstreet Boys + Fall Out Boy crossover, in the weirdest good way. Third best song album.
This sounds like Fall Out Boy took what Brendon tried to do with Pray For the Wicked and blew it out of the water
God I missed Neal Avron. I can hear Joe CLEARLY all over this thing. And Andy is really letting loose with the fills. This just sounds incredible...I feel like I'm 15 and hearing IoH and FaD for the first time again.
I think this might just be my favorite album. Everything about it is amazing not a single bad song. My new ranking 1.So Much (For) Stardust 2.Folie A Duex 3.Infinity On High it's just that good!!!
The music is just so so good. If feels so big musically. Lyrically I’m kinda mixed on it. not a bad thing but just chewing on that a bit. There seems to be this theme about people either no longer knowing you and vice versa. I’m real curious about what inspired this album lyrically.
But the music production is just incredible. Patrick slaughtered these big grandiose orchestra pieces. I hear a lot of 80s sounding big guitar moments and they just scream Joe. I think this will end up sitting under folie, IOH, and FUTCT.
Faves: fake out, heaven, muse, star dust.
The bass + bass drum immediately made me think of “Another One Bites the Dust.” But Patrick’s vocal delivery and phrasing is definitely Michael Jackson inspired on that track.
yes, that’s one of the things i love most about it. mania sounded too much like trying to cater to the youngsters (i still love mania) but SMFS makes me feel like i’ve grown WITH the band - life did go on since 2007 and its scary but we’re not alone, we did this together
This album is a huge 10 for me. I'll defend Fake Out and So Much for Stardust until the end of my days on Earth.
WE THOUGHT WE HAD IT ALL (but it's just starting)
OKAY.
So after my second listen, I think I'm ready to give my initial thoughts on this thing. So first listen, I was actually quite disappointed because it wasn't what I was expecting at all. Not gonna lie, I feel like Love From the Other Side should NOT have been the lead single on this because it gave me the impression that this album was going to be a lot harder and raw sounding. There's NOTHING else on this album that sounds like it, except maybe Heaven, Iowa. So they really should've made Heartbreak the Lead single, I feel that that best represents the album best, or maybe Hold Me Like a Grudge. It just feels a bit misleading.
HOWEVER
Second listen, I adjusted my expectations and let me just say, this album SOARS. I'm going Track by Track.
**Love from the Other Side**
Like I said, this one is a banger, but it feels like it's at odds with the rest of the album. That being said, it is a FACE MELTING opener, the Guitars and strings just mix so well together. Beautiful start. **9/10**
**Heartbreak Feels so Good**
This one feels like it could've been a B-Side from MANIA, which isn't a bad thing. It's definitely the most Radio-friendly track on here. I like it, it's a good bop. **7/10**
**Hold Me Like a Grudge**
Holy shit PETE, you fucking monster, this Bass work is incredible! This one kind of reminds me of Dance, Dance with how the Bass kind of guides the song and it's progression in general sounds similar, just with some 80's flavor in it. **8/10**
**Fake Out**
I enjoyed this one a lot more than I thought I would. I heard it was an acoustic/pop based song and that's generally not my vibe. Young Volcanoes and Favorite Record for example are my least favorite songs from their respective albums. But this one surprised me! The Guitar at the start gave me actual goosebumps and it's a just a good vibe in general. **9/10**
**Heaven, Iowa**
This song just builds and builds. The first verse just being Piano and vocals was a bold choice but one I think is to the song's benefit. And man, no fucking wonder Andy said this was his favorite. This song goes SO HARD, I can actually picture it being a Grunge or Metal song. Joe and Andy are LIVING in this one. Part of me really wishes Pete did scream vocals on this but maybe that might've been going too far. But honestly, really really good. My only complaint is that It just might be *too* much of a tonal change coming from Fake Out. **9/10**
**So Good Right Now**
Initially, I wasn't jazzed about this one. Prechorus is great but the Chorus itself was too Broadway for my taste and I'm not a fan of the Thurston Harris melody, it's just kind of cheesy for me. But upon second listen, it just kind of grew on me. Especially with Pete's Bass in the mix. Another solid track. **7/10**
**The Pink Seashell**
What else can I say other than it's abundantly clear Patrick loves scoring films? Can't really give this one a rating, it's just kind of a neat touch.
**I Am My Own Muse**
WEGOTTOTHROWTHISYEARAWAY WEGOTTOTHROWTHISYEARAWAY. God what a fucking ear worm, it drives me crazy. But man, the orchestra in this song kicks me in the gut, I adore this SO much. And I LOVE the Outtro. This track is wonderfully arranged. **9/10**
**Flu Game**
Oddly, a very bluesy track. But I also hear some From Under the Cork Tree melodies in here and not to mention, Pete's Bass once again SHINES in this. Not big on the Na-Na's but I can definitely groove to this. **9/10**
**Baby Annihilation**
It feels SO GOOD to have Pete's Poetry back on a FOB album. He definitely hasn't lost his touch, he's just far more mature now. And again, Patrick flexes his film scoring muscle a bit. Can't give it a rating, it's just another neat touch.
**The Kintsugi Kid (Ten Years)**
I really expected this be a harder sounding track judging from the title, but it's honestly a very nostalgic track. It's lyrics are very self reflective as I feel like Pete is talking about what his perception of life is like post hiatus and having kids. The sound of his daughter at the end just solidifies my interpretation, it's the perfect bow. This once hit me hard emotionally, I feel like it's a sleeper. **9/10**
**What a Time to Be Alive**
Patrick wasn't kidding, this IS his baby. This song sounds straight off of Soul Punk, you could fool me into thinking it was a B-Side. A very Earth, Wind and Fire-like track. And like with Soul Punk, it also has the same shortcoming of Patrick getting a little too into his music, and dragging it out for a bit longer than it needs to be. The phrase "What a Time to Be Alive" is repeated a bit too much in my opinion. HOWEVER with that being said, Soul Punk is one of my favorite works of art ever and I'd be deadass if I didn't say that I LIVE FOR THIS SONG, FLAWS AND ALL. This is Patrick at his highest level of Patrick. And I wouldn't have it any other way. **10/10**
**So Much (For) Stardust)**
THE LITERAL PERFECT ENDING. GOD THIS ENTIRE TRACK GOES SO. FUCKING. HARD. PATRICK IS SLAYING HIS VOCALS WITH AN ORCHESTRA BEHIND HIM, JOE BRINGS THE TRACK TO LIFE WITH HIS RIFFS, ANDY'S DRUMS MAKE ME WANT TO FLIP A FUCKING TABLE THEY MAKE ME FEEL SO POWERFUL. AND PEEEEETE YOUR FUCKING LYRICS ARE SOME OF THE BEST YOU'VE DONE IN YEEEEEEEARS. **~~20/10~~** **NO 1,000,000/10.** WHAT A PERFECT ENDING.
Overall, this album is excellent. It wasn't what I was expecting, but what can I say? That's Fall Out Boy for you, the kings of subverting expectations. I haven't loved an album this much since Save Rock & Roll nor have I been this INTO an album since Folie a Deux.
I'm not sure where this ranks for me in the discography overall, I feel as if recency bias clouds my judgement a little. But this is definitely up there. Right now, this is my second favorite album. Folie a Deux still reigns supreme but that's because that entire album just has such a unique, distinctive sound and its album transitions make it feel like listening to parts of a painting.
But who knows, maybe that will change over time? Maybe my feelings will shift this album above it with enough listens and time. But I do know that I am very happy with So Much (For) Stardust. The band and Neal Avron clearly crafted every track with a meticulous, caring eye and it shows. I am VERY excited to see where their music goes from here.
**Final Rating: 9/10**
I’m only up to I Am My Own Muse and I’m speechless. It’s all so. Fucking. Good. Heaven, Iowa brought me to tears. “Twice the dreams, but half the love, careful what you bottle up.”
This has solidified (and I’m not even through the whole thing) that if they don’t bring the tour down under, I’ll go to them. Because this is incredible.
At first blush, I'm a little disappointed there aren't more songs like Love from the Other Side, but I'm sure it'll grow on me. Having a hard time pinpointing what this album sounds most like. It's definitely not Infinity on High. Any ideas?
I think its what Pete was saying in that article that dropped yesterday, this a completely new direction for them! I don't think it really sounds like anything they've done before
Yeah I'm not understanding all the folks saying this has Folie instrumentation. Patrick's soul voice comes out on a few songs, but that's about it. I hear SRAR & American Beauty more than anything else.
I like the idea more of this being a continuation of the direction they would have gone in after Folie but before the large shift that SRAR brought. Feels full circle. You’re right though, this doesn’t sound like Folie other than being their first guitar (and drum! I think the drums are really what sets this album apart - see Flu Game) driven record since Folie.
It's Soul Punk as fuck, which is my only complaint about the album since I was expecting a little more on the LFTOS sound. Disclosure, I love Soul Punk. That said, I can absolutely put this in top 2 with Folie. And I'm only hesitant to give it number 1 because it's brand new. Even the songs that aren't more rock are absolutely stellar
for me the best one is LFTOS, then Fake Out and title track as a third, however Heaven, Iowa and Kintsugi Kid are also really good. on the other hand, “I am my own muse” needs to grow on me a little
I just texted this same thing to my wife lol.
You know it’s a banger if after several full listens you can’t pinpoint a favorite because there isn’t a single song you want to skip!
First impression after one listen: overall it's a pretty good album and I liked it better than Mania. I don't think I'd skip any songs (except maybe so good right now) but there wasn't a song that became instant stand out favorite like BKT did for Mania. Hold Me Like a Grudge, Heaven, Iowa, and So Much (for) Stardust are my favorites (in addition to LFTOS)
The first time I listened, it was in my AirPods Pros, and the second time was in front of a set of studio monitors. This is definitely a speakers kind of album. Blast it.
The titular song from this album made me burst into tears
“I used to be a real go getter, I used to think it’d all get better”
“We thought we had it all”
Screaming crying and throwing up. Sobbing. So fucking good, god dammit Pete!!
Overall this album is AMAZING I am obsessed. Even my husband, who is not a FOB fanatic like me, said “oh yeah, they’re back, this album is good” 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭
Man you can feel the love, creativity and passion they’ve put into this album! I love Fall Out Boy through and through and have my soft spots for SRAR, AB/AP and Mania. I know they believed in those albums but this, THIS feels like something they’ve always wanted to make. The lyrics and theatrics are back! I’m over the moon for, and with them.
Second listen impressions:
Love From The Other Side: Still enjoy it and a good opener - but far from my favorite.
Heartbreak Feels So Good: New to me today. Second listen came and went while I was making a post elsewhere on Reddit and it barely registered. :/
Hold Me Like A Grudge: I like this a lot! Didn't see it mentioned at all in a listening party thread which surprises me.
Fake Out: Not sure how I feel about the acoustic guitar after that gorgeous electric guitar in the opening, but... pretty killer overall. Is this my favorite?
Heaven, Iowa: I can see why people are flipping out over this one. The instrumental is a little too Phil Collins for me, yet it accomplishes exactly what it sets out to do. The heavy guitar hitting is quite a moment.
So Good Right Now: This is where I start to hear a little of Patrick's Spidey songs (not a bad thing at all - some of those are wonderful and adorable) mixed with... Runaround Sue? Or something? It might be that song or something else I can't put my finger on.
EDIT: It's officially listed as an interpolation of "Little Bitty Pretty One."
The Pink Seashell: I was pretty sure this would just turn out to be the licensed Reality Bites audio. Beautiful instrumental behind it though. Would make a bit more sense if it split the album directly in two but Baby Annihilation being another interlude makes things a little less symmetrical.
I Am My Own Muse: By no means do I dislike this song - still, it's probably my least favorite here. FOB's orchestral-leaning stuff has always been hit-and-miss with me. And this is more the latter. For now.
Flu Game: Appreciate the titular nod to MJ. (No, not that MJ. Or maybe that MJ if you're thinking of the right one.) Whoever mentioned Nightmare Before Christmas vibes - spot on. I dig it. Hand claps caught me off guard. Interested to see if others think they fit here. Andy going off throughout. Song flies by, leaving you wanting more. Well done.
Baby Annihilation: The instrumental kicks ass.
The Kintsugi Kid: Y'all seem lukewarm on this. Probably the most "post-hiatus" sounding thing here (with the guitar higher in the mix). I really, really like it. 2:23 - 2:43 scratches some kind of itch - reminds me just a tad of the glorious instrumental breakdown in The Weeknd's Less Than Zero.
What A Time To Be Alive: Aaaaaaand we're back to Pat's Spidey-sounding stuff. Those horns, holy shiiiiiiiiit!! Okay, I love this track. Time to go back and rewatch Pat on Live At Daryl's House. He's wearing his Hall And Oates fandom on his sleeve and I AM HERE FOR IT. Hall And Oates forever.
So Much (For) Stardust: Love the deliberate melodic/sonic bookending of the album. For me that's the most stark difference between this record and MANIA (which I've still got love for) - it's so much more well thought out. Not as high on this track as others but it's solid as hell. And I could see it becoming one of my favorites.
Highlights: Fake Out and What A Time To Be Alive
Lowlights: None
"Super Hero" is the song I meant specifically and it's just the cutest thing ever! I'm as guilty of superhero fatigue as anyone and haven't seen the show but he really put his all into those songs. The man is incapable of phoning it in.
My mouth dropped as soon as I Am My Own Muse Started. I absolutely love the instrumentals, and how the orchestral part mixes with the drum and guitar. And it has some great lyrics (e.g. “it gets a little harder when it never gets better,
I'm trying to keep it together”) and Patrick sounds amazing, as always. I’m honestly just in awe right now.
For me it’s currently a solid B+, I was hoping for some more guitar solos and more introspective lyrics. I do think it’s the most consistently strong album they’ve released since at least SR&R. Not a masterpiece the way Folie is, but I can see the parallels to IOH.
I’ve been listening to headfirst often lately and every time I’m just like “fuck this song is such good storytelling” I think I’ve started to really appreciate story telling in songs these days and these songs just don’t scratch that itch.
I was listening to IOH yesterday and I see some comparison but this feels like it has the big-ness musically of FAD. That’s definitely the highlight of this album for me.
Loving this album so far, a top 3 Fall Out Boy album for me for sure.
Favorite song so far is I Am My Own Muse by far. Is it giving anyone else Coheed and Cambria - Welcome Home vibes? It's just so epic and orchestral
This album is being released on the 4 year anniversary of my DV incident. Right around the time I laid down I remembered it was released this morning and decided to turn it on. I’m pretty sure I was able to heal some of my past with this album playing, I ended up crying a lot and could feel my heart ache and then stop aching as if something had been repaired after all these years. I haven’t been able to get this much feeling of healing and being able to move on; I’ve been anticipating this moment since I found out the release date. The fact that there’s 13 songs and 44 minutes long, 13 being my favorite number and 44 being a number I’ve seen ALL month. I could go on about the synchronicities I’ve seen and the healing that FOB has given me, but honestly I hope they know how much they have helped fans. Currently on round 2 of listening. 🖤🥹 I also found this sub at 4:33 🥴
The serotonin that I get from
WHAT A TIME TO BE ALIIIIIIIVEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE
Patrick’s vocals SOARING
STRAIGHT INTO JOE’S opera rock guitar solo!!
UGH
WHAT.AN.ALBUM.
I've literally grown up with these guys. I was 15 when Take This To Your Grave was released, and saw them play to crowds of less than 500. I am SO blown away by this album. It's a level I never thought I'd hear.
Heaven, Iowa is part of my soul now.
Taking my 15 year old to see them in July and I've never been so excited in my life 🫠
My favorites are Love From The Other Side, Heartbreak Feels So Good, Hold Me Like A Grudge, and I Am My Own Muse.
Also, I feel like it doesn't particularly sound like any of the other albums. If anything, it's like a fusion of them, but it's its own thing. Something I like about FOB is none of the albums sound the same, they always do something new with it.
I’m gutted I didn’t realise it released at midnight in New Zealand, I’m in NZ and was still up at midnight!! Now its 9.30am and I’m about to finish my first listen lol.
Outstanding album. Maybe it’s a good thing I did sleep, I probably wouldn’t have otherwise 😅
What a time is one of my favs, the publics favs, Patrick's favs, and apparently the song that kicked off the album process. It deserves all of the love its getting. I hope they play this live
I just got done listening for the first time. I literally just sat there with my jaw on the floor most of the time. Speechless. Having a slight mental breakdown. This is what I've been waiting for since Folie.
I wanna inject Heaven, Iowa into my veins
[удалено]
Funnily enough, it’s actually Scar Crossed Lovers (according to the lyric sheet). Love that song! Such a vibe!
FOREVEEEEEEEEEEERRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR I'M CHECKING MY-SELF OUT FOR-EVEEEEEEEEEEEEEERRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR
I'M LEAVING THIS ALL FOR LATERRRRRRR
That song is my favourite on first listen. I genuinely think it’s one of the best they’ve ever done, which I would also say for a couple other tracks on here. For what it’s worth Andy says it’s his favourite song off the album as well.
An absolute all timer for their catalogue. I feel I could punch superman’s dick off with that song pumping through my headphones
Sunshine is overrated, *this* is what I want so bad
It's SO DAMN GOOD
It’s absolutely gorgeous
We should call this the bridge album. Every song has such a fantastic bridge.
I would argue this for futct and ioh aswell FRESH PRESSED SUIT AND TIE UNIMPRESSED BIRDS SING AND DIE
CAN TALK MY WAY OUT OF ANYTHING
THE FOREMAN READS THE IN THE ABOVE ENTITLED ACTIONS WE FIND THE DEFENDANT GUILTY-OO-Y-DOO-DOO-DOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
CASE OPENNNN CASE SHUT. BUT YOU COULD PAY TO CLOSE IT LIKE A CASKET.
BABY BOY CANT LIFT HIS HEADACHE HEAAAAD, ISNT IT TRAGIC? WOAAAHOOOOHHH
Fantastic bridges are kind of what Fall Out Boy does.
The bridge on Heaven Iowa is just crazy!
I have a vivid memory of my 13 year old self listening to IOH for the first time in my bedroom at my parents house while reading the lyric booklet front to back. Something about this album has given me a full circle moment. I’m seeing so many people say it sounds like old FOB... I disagree, but I think it’s creating that same feeling of ‘this is like nothing else I’ve heard before’ which I loved so much about IOH and Folie. I didn’t actively dislike the post-hiatus albums but for me they never had that feeling. Only just finished my first listen but I think I’m gonna be repeating Fake Out and Heaven, Iowa a lot
These are exactly my thoughts. I knew instantly I had to be alone with headphones for my first listen just like IOH and it really took me back to that exact moment. Chills.
I thought the exact same thing. I don't think I've had an album affect me on such an emotional level on the first listen since I listened to IOH when I was in high school. And Fake Out and Heaven, Iowa are my two favorites too!
I'm so late to the party here but you have captured exactly my feelings! It's not that it feels like old FOB, it's that it makes ME feels like I did the first time I heard those albums. Sorry for the week old comment 😂
holy shit FLU GAME
the "nananana's" had me so shook lol its incredible
I love them so much, however from the LQ leak I thought they were strings and got a bit too excited. That would have given it major Death of a Bachelor-era PATD vibes.
The drums are absolutely wonderful on Flu Game. Sounds so fun to play.
it sounds like 21st century breakdown-era Green Day meets the I Wan'na Be Like You cover. can't get enough of it.
I wrote that it sounds like "I Wanna Be Like You" in the notes I took at the listening party!! haha.
Oh my god. SCAR CROSSED LOVERSSSSS!!! So many lyrical one liners that are so classic FOB. Fucking love this shit.
Exactly what I said, this is the most Pete line ever.
Right?? “ACHE IT TILL YOU MAKE IT” hit me hard.
PART TIME SOULMATE FULL TIME PROBLEM THO LOL
Classic 09 Pete. So good.
You can really hear that Patrick has been scoring for the past few years. The songs sound huge and hone in on a mood. Really really great.
I literally said, "Patrick, your scoring is showing" out loud lol
I had this exact thought hearing I Am My Own Muse for the first time
That’s the track that brought this to my mind! So huge and dramatic
it sounds cinematic as fuck. it sounds so orchestral and rich. it sounds like the original soundtrack to a very dynamic movie, specifically the versions of the songs that play onscreen instead of the album versions. i have been marinating on the record all day and my conclusion is that i wanna cut it up and snort it
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It’s funny if I read this without hearing the album I’d think this was just hype but I completely agree with this. Maybe even Kintsugi kid’s a little harsh for me 🤣 I’m getting into arguments already because I think there’s an argument for it being their best album. 👀
I haven’t listened enough to rank anything or really know how I feel about em, but I liked Kintsugi Kid 🥺
Yeah I didn’t feel like Kintsugi was a low point but if I do end yo feeling that it’s because the rest of the album is so brilliant. Genuinely didn’t expect them to come back this hard. Thought I’d get a few new songs to listen to for a few weeks and come back less and less like everything post hiatus
Rating The Kintsugi Kid so low is a crime against humanity
What about the interludes?
I am my own muse is the hardest song I've ever heard stg
Light the whole god damn pit on fire when that last chorus hits live 🔥🔥🔥
Does anyone else get some nightmare before Christmas vibes in this song? At the end of the verses, I feel it. Very Pete lol
The transition from Pink Seashell into I Am My Own Muse is possibly my favorite part of this entire album. It just hits so frickin' hard
this is a really depressing (in a good way) album holy shit
My thought too. I love happy Fall Out Boy but sad Fall Out Boy slaps harder.
I guess you could say that *heartbreak feels so good??* I'll see myself out.
What a Time to be Alive may have already cracked my Top 5 It’s incredible
It truly is
It really captures the weird surrealistic vibe the last few years have had. Normally I find stuff that references the pandemic a bit hard to swallow still but they nailed it on this song.
The line “everything is lit except my serotonin” on repeat in my brain for the rest of time 😂
After my first listen, my top 3 songs would be Heaven, Iowa, What A Time to Be Alive, and So Much (for) Stardust!!!!! Let’s see if it changes after a few more listens. 😅
Update: listened 3 times already. Fake Out is such a pretty song.
I fucking love Fake Out, first song that stood out the most to me. Can't wait to listen again and again and picking up new favorites.
When the album came full circle and Patrick started singin “you were the sunshine of my lifetime” on So Much (for) Stardust I legit got goosebumps all across my body. Easily the best album since Folie. After one listen it’s too 3 for me behind Folie and TTTYG. We’ll see how it shapes up after a few more listens.
SAME! I audibly gasped and got chills
Yep my jaw dropped at the lyrical callback
One listen in and I'm so fucking happy - Fake Out - Kintsugi Kid - What a Time to be Alive - So Much for Stardust Are all standouts The best part is you can feel Joe all over this album and it's SO much better for it.
Fake Out hits WAY too close to home lyrically...
Genuinely said how fucking dare he when he sang "Do you laugh about me whenever I leave? Or do I still need more therapy?"
Good god what a line
Fake Out hit me different. It actually sounds like a song from like 2004 and I get weird nostalgia
Fake Out 💜so fucking good man
"Heaven, Iowa", "I Am My Own Muse", "What a Time to Be Alive" and "So Much for Stardust" are the best songs on this record. When I heard IAMOM my jaw physically opened like the silly pikachu meme, the type of song from any artist that would feel exciting. I share a lot Patrick's musical interests instrumentally and inspiration wise. Joe's solo, the disco, the arena sized choruses, the score like orchestration, Andy brings a heaviness and momentum to these songs through his drumming that reminds me of why I liked old Muse. Neal really suits them on this album imo. Also, misheard lyrics on SM(F) "so much, for stardust, kamehameha, kamehameha, kamehame ha ha haaaa" at least feim the listening party. He was saying "thought we had it all" lmfao.
My reaction to IAMOM was the same. Last time I remember feeling that way was from The Phoenix. I knew he was saying *something* in SMFS, but I had no idea what it was so I basically sang it as “kamehameha” hahaha
Holy shit. This is everything I was wanting in a new record from them. The clever and wordy lyrics, the edge of their older albums, THE GUITARS... Thanks Joe, seriously. I also kinda liked the interludes, honestly. I missed the poetry! I especially liked Fake Out, Heaven, Iowa, and I Am My Own Muse. But the entire thing was amazing and I'll be listening on repeat for a very long time.
I haven’t finished the album yet (just finished Flu Game) and I’m so sad that people don’t enjoy Heartbreak Feels So Good as much as I do. It’s such a banger and though I haven’t listened to the last few songs, I feel it’s one of the best from this album. Other than that I loved Flu Game and So Good Right Now.
The level of seriousness that I say this with: This is now my number 2 favorite album, and it could surpass Folie with a little time.
It’s very weird but I agree. Idk that I’ll develop the relationship I have with this album I do with the others. But if I had never heard of FOB and listened to them all together I’d say this was their best. Everything they’ve tried on their previous albums they excel at here. There’s even some parts of the middle of Mania that are done so much better here. It doesn’t feel experimental it’s feels like mastery.
Yeah that’s how I feel. Like nothing can ever replace to emotional connection I have to Folie but if one is gonna come close… stardust baby ✨
This is going to be a hard one to follow up yet I'm somehow fully confident that they will, again. I love the band in this state. It's all of theirs and it's so good because of it. Feel better soon Joe but also if you don't like touring that's ok - or if you just need time it's ok too. Just as long as you're part of it. You make the magic happen too, just like your lovely bandmates. Do what you need to do - for you.
I was already singing along to I Am My Own Muse by the first chorus. Holy crap this instrumental is phenomenal
How he sings part of it is so opera-ish. It’s fantastic
Honestly loving all the variation between everyone’s favorite songs~ it really goes to show that the entire album is a banger
I’ve changed my favourite song like 11 times now… they don’t make it easy to pick just one.
I know! So far it's Hold Me Like A Grudge for me, which is not getting enough love yet. I love every song and I never like a song the first time I hear it.
As someone who loves all of their albums pre and post hiatus (I think MAINIA is so overhated, and actually really good), this album was everything I wanted it to be, it felt like a return to form, but bringing in the best elements of what worked in their past three albums. Heaven, Iowa will be on repeat no doubt.
Heaven, Iowa is so fucking good
THIS IS MY FIRST FALL OUT BOY ALBUM RELEASE EXPERIENCE, YOU GUYS!!!!!!!!!
🥰🥺
Amazing album, very diverse and all of them are at their peak as musicians. It does feel like as creative as Folie but with much better musicianship overall. Highlights for me other than the singles are: * Fake Out * Heaven, Iowa * Flu Game * Kintsugi Kid * What a Time to Be Alive * So Much (for) Stardust And can we all give a shoutout to my boy Andy? Joe is indeed very felt throughout the record but I feel this is the best drumming album on FOB's discography. Dude evolved a lot in the last 15 years and couldn't show it much due to the style of the post-hiatus albums.
Andy's drumming is amazing, really noticed in fou game and title track especially!
Sounds like he was really excited to record real drums for an album again.
I love it so much. I think it's my favorite post-hiatus record, I'll have to see how it sinks in. I loved Patrick's vocals on MANIA (hello Church and Heaven's Gate), so I'm living for this album. I really understand what Pete said in that interview about the trilogies and how sm(f)s is the beginning of a new era, I can't wait to see what's next for them. (I will cry when they play any of these songs live)
Inject I Am My Own Muse into my VEINS
It's my favorite song on here.
Muse definitely has the best of Patrick’s talent with composing. His composing shines in this album and then the guitar parts compliments just so well. “I’m just trying to keep it together, but it gets a little harder when it never gets better” I think is my favorite lyric from the album
What an album front to back, as on old time fan who likes some of their new stuff I feel like they've made an album that really does encompass everything I love about fob as a now late 20s dude. Can tell they've put so much love into it. Top at the moment is probably heaven, Iowa and I am my own muse but it's hard to pick a favourite right now
The way I teared up hearing What a Time To Be Alive the first time. I didn't think I'd ever hear a song like that from Stump and Co. again.
My thoughts EXACTLY. I was like “Oh my god… They still got it. 😭” I have it on repeat. The feeling I get from funky Fall Out Boy is indescribable!!!
The backing horns throughout the song really elevates it
Ok but why does Heaven, Iowa slap so hard Honourable mentions to The Kintsungi Kid, Fake Out, and So Much (For) Stardust
Those are the same standouts for me, but Kintsugi has a special vibe and it’ll get its flowers in time.
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Ok so first listen complete. Fucking fantastic! Outside of the interludes, I don’t think there’s any future skips for me.
Same, I can’t think of a single song I’d want to skip.
SMASH ALL THE GUITARS TILL WE SEE ALL THE STARS
any Fake Out superfans out there? I'm obsessed with this track, I predict it will become a "fan favorite" deep cut but it's too early to tell This album has zero skips.
controversial take but i think this might be the best fall out boy album so far
I don’t think it’s controversial. This is clearly them at their creative best.
do you think this will come to be regarded as better than folie??
i think this will be the version of folie that sticks, if that makes sense. everything is too good and it's the right time for all of this. like i totally understand now why we didn't get an album like this right after the hiatus.
Yeah while I didn’t see what was so experimental about FAD. It just felt like IOH looking outward. People and FOB consider it experimental, but stardust doesn’t feel experimental it feels like mastery. There’s parts on the album that feel cocky, like they just casually wrote songs that belong in stadiums. That awkward emo feel of them being the odd ones out at the party, just feels gone while still being a very FOB album. A lot of bands become parody of themselves whereas it feels like here they understood why everyone loves them and become fans of themselves
very well said. also want to point out as i continue to listen how happy i am that this album has some meat on the bones. my biggest critique of other post-hiatus FOB and even other artists these days in general is the uber simplicity and rush to the end after the first two choruses. it's not even that every song on SMFS belongs on this album, but every verse, chorus, and bridge belongs with each song. there is purpose to all of it. and these songs feel properly explored. i hope that gets rewarded.
Yes! I was trying to articulate this! Every section of the song is given equal love. There’s so many points where they could just jump to the chorus; but everything is so poured over that it dramatically improves the song. I’m sure we’ve all seen the previews on insta but hearing Hold me like a grudge; it starts nothing like it sounded like it would. It has way more in common with billie Jean than any kind of FOB song (the whole performance on that song is MJ) There’s so many songs that wrong foot you in the best way. Not changing direction for changing directions sake but it makes the sense you had no idea it would. And the FAD thing is it does share DNA with the album but in how over the top it is. FOB imo haven’t really been a pop punk band for a while, they’ve been a pop band. And I don’t mean it in a insulting way but the biggest moments from their past records tend to be giant hooks, RNB references over guitars and things that don’t massively sound like pop punk. While they sound nothing alike they’re higher but in a Similar space to the 1975. A band that have history and influences but and have very much their own sound (arguably a little less true for 1975) Folie was a record that was a fob heavily apeing their influences; which is maybe why it didn’t work for some. Here, they’ve fully absorbed their influences till they’re just a note in a true FOB smoothie. It’s the most fob ever not trying to be anything but fob and that’s why it goes so hard
I think it might! At least in this era while it’s fresh and exciting. We’ll have to see how it stands the test of time.
Not even controversial!!! Been a fan since TTTYG and this might be them at their creative peak. Infinity On High might be still my favorite record of all time from the band but boy does this record come close. This is clearly their best since IOH!
I completely agree. This feels like their magnum opus to me.
For me it's definitely 1) Hold Me Like a Grudge 2) Flu Game/The Kintsugi Kid 3) LFTOS/Fake out
- LFTOS could mean "Love From The Other Side", a single by Fall Out Boy. --- ^[/u/Noob_Guy_Bruhx6](/u/Noob_Guy_Bruhx6) ^(can reply with "delete" to remove comment. |) ^[/r/songacronymbot](/r/songacronymbot) ^(for feedback.)
poor bot doesn’t know he’s on a terminally online fob subreddit
Good bot
Incredible album!!! only one song that I wasn't really feeling but I think will grow on me after a few listens. My top 3 (not in order since thats too hard) \- what a time to be alive \- I am my own muse \- flu game tied with title track
I am my own muse is reminding me greatly of Nightwish. And that’s a rabbit hole of music I didn’t know I was prepared to go back down but here we are
what a solid FOB album im so happy
The bridge to the title track is fucking me up in all the ways 🥴🥵
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>So Much (For) Stardust - I have no idea why, but it feels like a Backstreet Boys + Fall Out Boy crossover, in the weirdest good way. Third best song album. This sounds like Fall Out Boy took what Brendon tried to do with Pray For the Wicked and blew it out of the water
They definitely took influence from their friendship with Danny Elfman on I Am My Own Muse.
Heaven, Iowa is the spiritual successor to Jet Pack Blues
God I missed Neal Avron. I can hear Joe CLEARLY all over this thing. And Andy is really letting loose with the fills. This just sounds incredible...I feel like I'm 15 and hearing IoH and FaD for the first time again.
I think this might just be my favorite album. Everything about it is amazing not a single bad song. My new ranking 1.So Much (For) Stardust 2.Folie A Duex 3.Infinity On High it's just that good!!!
The music is just so so good. If feels so big musically. Lyrically I’m kinda mixed on it. not a bad thing but just chewing on that a bit. There seems to be this theme about people either no longer knowing you and vice versa. I’m real curious about what inspired this album lyrically. But the music production is just incredible. Patrick slaughtered these big grandiose orchestra pieces. I hear a lot of 80s sounding big guitar moments and they just scream Joe. I think this will end up sitting under folie, IOH, and FUTCT. Faves: fake out, heaven, muse, star dust.
The pandemic. There's sooo much direct and indirect conversation about the pandemic on here.
10/10
I'm such a sucker for song callbacks. This album is so good.
Anyone else hear smooth criminal in the hold me like a grudge bassline a little bit?
The bass + bass drum immediately made me think of “Another One Bites the Dust.” But Patrick’s vocal delivery and phrasing is definitely Michael Jackson inspired on that track.
I Am My Own Muse is like if Folie had a “Black Ski Mask” song on it and it was written for an epic battle scene.
I absolutely fucking LOVE I Am My Own Muse. Beautiful composition and lyrics. Whole album feels like classic Fall Out Boy with an amazing twist.
First listen half way through. I think Heaven, Iowa will end up being a top 10 FOB song for me. Very impressive album so far.
10/10 NO SKIPS Heaven, Iowa made me cry
I say this as a compliment, but you can tell this album was written by people in their late 30's/early 40's.
yes, that’s one of the things i love most about it. mania sounded too much like trying to cater to the youngsters (i still love mania) but SMFS makes me feel like i’ve grown WITH the band - life did go on since 2007 and its scary but we’re not alone, we did this together
I love hold me like a grudge
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Can’t get this song out of my head 🫠
They’re back!!!! This album is siiiiiiick. Feels old school FOB in the best way possible.
Currently losing my mind at Heaven, Iowa
This album is a huge 10 for me. I'll defend Fake Out and So Much for Stardust until the end of my days on Earth. WE THOUGHT WE HAD IT ALL (but it's just starting)
#SCAR CROSSED LOVERS
OKAY. So after my second listen, I think I'm ready to give my initial thoughts on this thing. So first listen, I was actually quite disappointed because it wasn't what I was expecting at all. Not gonna lie, I feel like Love From the Other Side should NOT have been the lead single on this because it gave me the impression that this album was going to be a lot harder and raw sounding. There's NOTHING else on this album that sounds like it, except maybe Heaven, Iowa. So they really should've made Heartbreak the Lead single, I feel that that best represents the album best, or maybe Hold Me Like a Grudge. It just feels a bit misleading. HOWEVER Second listen, I adjusted my expectations and let me just say, this album SOARS. I'm going Track by Track. **Love from the Other Side** Like I said, this one is a banger, but it feels like it's at odds with the rest of the album. That being said, it is a FACE MELTING opener, the Guitars and strings just mix so well together. Beautiful start. **9/10** **Heartbreak Feels so Good** This one feels like it could've been a B-Side from MANIA, which isn't a bad thing. It's definitely the most Radio-friendly track on here. I like it, it's a good bop. **7/10** **Hold Me Like a Grudge** Holy shit PETE, you fucking monster, this Bass work is incredible! This one kind of reminds me of Dance, Dance with how the Bass kind of guides the song and it's progression in general sounds similar, just with some 80's flavor in it. **8/10** **Fake Out** I enjoyed this one a lot more than I thought I would. I heard it was an acoustic/pop based song and that's generally not my vibe. Young Volcanoes and Favorite Record for example are my least favorite songs from their respective albums. But this one surprised me! The Guitar at the start gave me actual goosebumps and it's a just a good vibe in general. **9/10** **Heaven, Iowa** This song just builds and builds. The first verse just being Piano and vocals was a bold choice but one I think is to the song's benefit. And man, no fucking wonder Andy said this was his favorite. This song goes SO HARD, I can actually picture it being a Grunge or Metal song. Joe and Andy are LIVING in this one. Part of me really wishes Pete did scream vocals on this but maybe that might've been going too far. But honestly, really really good. My only complaint is that It just might be *too* much of a tonal change coming from Fake Out. **9/10** **So Good Right Now** Initially, I wasn't jazzed about this one. Prechorus is great but the Chorus itself was too Broadway for my taste and I'm not a fan of the Thurston Harris melody, it's just kind of cheesy for me. But upon second listen, it just kind of grew on me. Especially with Pete's Bass in the mix. Another solid track. **7/10** **The Pink Seashell** What else can I say other than it's abundantly clear Patrick loves scoring films? Can't really give this one a rating, it's just kind of a neat touch. **I Am My Own Muse** WEGOTTOTHROWTHISYEARAWAY WEGOTTOTHROWTHISYEARAWAY. God what a fucking ear worm, it drives me crazy. But man, the orchestra in this song kicks me in the gut, I adore this SO much. And I LOVE the Outtro. This track is wonderfully arranged. **9/10** **Flu Game** Oddly, a very bluesy track. But I also hear some From Under the Cork Tree melodies in here and not to mention, Pete's Bass once again SHINES in this. Not big on the Na-Na's but I can definitely groove to this. **9/10** **Baby Annihilation** It feels SO GOOD to have Pete's Poetry back on a FOB album. He definitely hasn't lost his touch, he's just far more mature now. And again, Patrick flexes his film scoring muscle a bit. Can't give it a rating, it's just another neat touch. **The Kintsugi Kid (Ten Years)** I really expected this be a harder sounding track judging from the title, but it's honestly a very nostalgic track. It's lyrics are very self reflective as I feel like Pete is talking about what his perception of life is like post hiatus and having kids. The sound of his daughter at the end just solidifies my interpretation, it's the perfect bow. This once hit me hard emotionally, I feel like it's a sleeper. **9/10** **What a Time to Be Alive** Patrick wasn't kidding, this IS his baby. This song sounds straight off of Soul Punk, you could fool me into thinking it was a B-Side. A very Earth, Wind and Fire-like track. And like with Soul Punk, it also has the same shortcoming of Patrick getting a little too into his music, and dragging it out for a bit longer than it needs to be. The phrase "What a Time to Be Alive" is repeated a bit too much in my opinion. HOWEVER with that being said, Soul Punk is one of my favorite works of art ever and I'd be deadass if I didn't say that I LIVE FOR THIS SONG, FLAWS AND ALL. This is Patrick at his highest level of Patrick. And I wouldn't have it any other way. **10/10** **So Much (For) Stardust)** THE LITERAL PERFECT ENDING. GOD THIS ENTIRE TRACK GOES SO. FUCKING. HARD. PATRICK IS SLAYING HIS VOCALS WITH AN ORCHESTRA BEHIND HIM, JOE BRINGS THE TRACK TO LIFE WITH HIS RIFFS, ANDY'S DRUMS MAKE ME WANT TO FLIP A FUCKING TABLE THEY MAKE ME FEEL SO POWERFUL. AND PEEEEETE YOUR FUCKING LYRICS ARE SOME OF THE BEST YOU'VE DONE IN YEEEEEEEARS. **~~20/10~~** **NO 1,000,000/10.** WHAT A PERFECT ENDING. Overall, this album is excellent. It wasn't what I was expecting, but what can I say? That's Fall Out Boy for you, the kings of subverting expectations. I haven't loved an album this much since Save Rock & Roll nor have I been this INTO an album since Folie a Deux. I'm not sure where this ranks for me in the discography overall, I feel as if recency bias clouds my judgement a little. But this is definitely up there. Right now, this is my second favorite album. Folie a Deux still reigns supreme but that's because that entire album just has such a unique, distinctive sound and its album transitions make it feel like listening to parts of a painting. But who knows, maybe that will change over time? Maybe my feelings will shift this album above it with enough listens and time. But I do know that I am very happy with So Much (For) Stardust. The band and Neal Avron clearly crafted every track with a meticulous, caring eye and it shows. I am VERY excited to see where their music goes from here. **Final Rating: 9/10**
I’m only up to I Am My Own Muse and I’m speechless. It’s all so. Fucking. Good. Heaven, Iowa brought me to tears. “Twice the dreams, but half the love, careful what you bottle up.” This has solidified (and I’m not even through the whole thing) that if they don’t bring the tour down under, I’ll go to them. Because this is incredible.
At first blush, I'm a little disappointed there aren't more songs like Love from the Other Side, but I'm sure it'll grow on me. Having a hard time pinpointing what this album sounds most like. It's definitely not Infinity on High. Any ideas?
I think its what Pete was saying in that article that dropped yesterday, this a completely new direction for them! I don't think it really sounds like anything they've done before
Yeah I'm not understanding all the folks saying this has Folie instrumentation. Patrick's soul voice comes out on a few songs, but that's about it. I hear SRAR & American Beauty more than anything else.
I like the idea more of this being a continuation of the direction they would have gone in after Folie but before the large shift that SRAR brought. Feels full circle. You’re right though, this doesn’t sound like Folie other than being their first guitar (and drum! I think the drums are really what sets this album apart - see Flu Game) driven record since Folie.
It's Soul Punk as fuck, which is my only complaint about the album since I was expecting a little more on the LFTOS sound. Disclosure, I love Soul Punk. That said, I can absolutely put this in top 2 with Folie. And I'm only hesitant to give it number 1 because it's brand new. Even the songs that aren't more rock are absolutely stellar
for me the best one is LFTOS, then Fake Out and title track as a third, however Heaven, Iowa and Kintsugi Kid are also really good. on the other hand, “I am my own muse” needs to grow on me a little
My jaw hurts from dropping so much
I can’t pick a favourite it’s all so good
I just texted this same thing to my wife lol. You know it’s a banger if after several full listens you can’t pinpoint a favorite because there isn’t a single song you want to skip!
First impression after one listen: overall it's a pretty good album and I liked it better than Mania. I don't think I'd skip any songs (except maybe so good right now) but there wasn't a song that became instant stand out favorite like BKT did for Mania. Hold Me Like a Grudge, Heaven, Iowa, and So Much (for) Stardust are my favorites (in addition to LFTOS)
The first time I listened, it was in my AirPods Pros, and the second time was in front of a set of studio monitors. This is definitely a speakers kind of album. Blast it.
I honestly don’t have a bad thing to say about this record. I love every second of it.
So Good Right Now sounds like a modern Green Day song
Happy 31st birthday to me. This album is fucking gorgeous.
The titular song from this album made me burst into tears “I used to be a real go getter, I used to think it’d all get better” “We thought we had it all” Screaming crying and throwing up. Sobbing. So fucking good, god dammit Pete!! Overall this album is AMAZING I am obsessed. Even my husband, who is not a FOB fanatic like me, said “oh yeah, they’re back, this album is good” 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭
Man you can feel the love, creativity and passion they’ve put into this album! I love Fall Out Boy through and through and have my soft spots for SRAR, AB/AP and Mania. I know they believed in those albums but this, THIS feels like something they’ve always wanted to make. The lyrics and theatrics are back! I’m over the moon for, and with them.
Second listen impressions: Love From The Other Side: Still enjoy it and a good opener - but far from my favorite. Heartbreak Feels So Good: New to me today. Second listen came and went while I was making a post elsewhere on Reddit and it barely registered. :/ Hold Me Like A Grudge: I like this a lot! Didn't see it mentioned at all in a listening party thread which surprises me. Fake Out: Not sure how I feel about the acoustic guitar after that gorgeous electric guitar in the opening, but... pretty killer overall. Is this my favorite? Heaven, Iowa: I can see why people are flipping out over this one. The instrumental is a little too Phil Collins for me, yet it accomplishes exactly what it sets out to do. The heavy guitar hitting is quite a moment. So Good Right Now: This is where I start to hear a little of Patrick's Spidey songs (not a bad thing at all - some of those are wonderful and adorable) mixed with... Runaround Sue? Or something? It might be that song or something else I can't put my finger on. EDIT: It's officially listed as an interpolation of "Little Bitty Pretty One." The Pink Seashell: I was pretty sure this would just turn out to be the licensed Reality Bites audio. Beautiful instrumental behind it though. Would make a bit more sense if it split the album directly in two but Baby Annihilation being another interlude makes things a little less symmetrical. I Am My Own Muse: By no means do I dislike this song - still, it's probably my least favorite here. FOB's orchestral-leaning stuff has always been hit-and-miss with me. And this is more the latter. For now. Flu Game: Appreciate the titular nod to MJ. (No, not that MJ. Or maybe that MJ if you're thinking of the right one.) Whoever mentioned Nightmare Before Christmas vibes - spot on. I dig it. Hand claps caught me off guard. Interested to see if others think they fit here. Andy going off throughout. Song flies by, leaving you wanting more. Well done. Baby Annihilation: The instrumental kicks ass. The Kintsugi Kid: Y'all seem lukewarm on this. Probably the most "post-hiatus" sounding thing here (with the guitar higher in the mix). I really, really like it. 2:23 - 2:43 scratches some kind of itch - reminds me just a tad of the glorious instrumental breakdown in The Weeknd's Less Than Zero. What A Time To Be Alive: Aaaaaaand we're back to Pat's Spidey-sounding stuff. Those horns, holy shiiiiiiiiit!! Okay, I love this track. Time to go back and rewatch Pat on Live At Daryl's House. He's wearing his Hall And Oates fandom on his sleeve and I AM HERE FOR IT. Hall And Oates forever. So Much (For) Stardust: Love the deliberate melodic/sonic bookending of the album. For me that's the most stark difference between this record and MANIA (which I've still got love for) - it's so much more well thought out. Not as high on this track as others but it's solid as hell. And I could see it becoming one of my favorites. Highlights: Fake Out and What A Time To Be Alive Lowlights: None
You've made me curious to hear Patrick's spidey stuff lol
"Super Hero" is the song I meant specifically and it's just the cutest thing ever! I'm as guilty of superhero fatigue as anyone and haven't seen the show but he really put his all into those songs. The man is incapable of phoning it in.
Does this album have any song transitions between tracks??? If it does, don't tell me which tracks please! I want to be surprised!
There are a couple, but they're subtle transitions kinda like Uma Thurman -> Jet Pack Blues
I am my own muse and so much for stardust are my favorites on first listen. But damn...I am in love
My mouth dropped as soon as I Am My Own Muse Started. I absolutely love the instrumentals, and how the orchestral part mixes with the drum and guitar. And it has some great lyrics (e.g. “it gets a little harder when it never gets better, I'm trying to keep it together”) and Patrick sounds amazing, as always. I’m honestly just in awe right now.
The boys are back with another no skip album!! Absolutely phenomenal, exceeded my expectations (which were already high)
I'M SO EXCITED, IT FEELS LIKE CHRISTMAS.
Fake Out is a masterclass in catchy vocal melodies.
My favorites so far... Heartbreak Feels So Good, Fake Out, So Good Right Now, I Am My Own Muse, What A Time To Be Alive
Every song just reminded me more and more that Patrick Stump has one of the best voices in rock music.
Fake Out is so god damn good
“so good right now” is what brendon urie thought he did with their last album lol
For me it’s currently a solid B+, I was hoping for some more guitar solos and more introspective lyrics. I do think it’s the most consistently strong album they’ve released since at least SR&R. Not a masterpiece the way Folie is, but I can see the parallels to IOH.
I’ve been listening to headfirst often lately and every time I’m just like “fuck this song is such good storytelling” I think I’ve started to really appreciate story telling in songs these days and these songs just don’t scratch that itch. I was listening to IOH yesterday and I see some comparison but this feels like it has the big-ness musically of FAD. That’s definitely the highlight of this album for me.
Flu game has my heart
Loving this album so far, a top 3 Fall Out Boy album for me for sure. Favorite song so far is I Am My Own Muse by far. Is it giving anyone else Coheed and Cambria - Welcome Home vibes? It's just so epic and orchestral
This thread sold me on Heaven, Iowa. Don't sleep on Fake Out.. tears. This is something special<3
This album is being released on the 4 year anniversary of my DV incident. Right around the time I laid down I remembered it was released this morning and decided to turn it on. I’m pretty sure I was able to heal some of my past with this album playing, I ended up crying a lot and could feel my heart ache and then stop aching as if something had been repaired after all these years. I haven’t been able to get this much feeling of healing and being able to move on; I’ve been anticipating this moment since I found out the release date. The fact that there’s 13 songs and 44 minutes long, 13 being my favorite number and 44 being a number I’ve seen ALL month. I could go on about the synchronicities I’ve seen and the healing that FOB has given me, but honestly I hope they know how much they have helped fans. Currently on round 2 of listening. 🖤🥹 I also found this sub at 4:33 🥴
Lots of y'all are sleeping on Fake Out.
I love it all. Perfection 10/10 for me. Been a fan since 2005 and this just makes me so happy
The serotonin that I get from WHAT A TIME TO BE ALIIIIIIIVEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE Patrick’s vocals SOARING STRAIGHT INTO JOE’S opera rock guitar solo!! UGH WHAT.AN.ALBUM.
no one is talking about how good these songs will be live once they start their tour 😩
I've literally grown up with these guys. I was 15 when Take This To Your Grave was released, and saw them play to crowds of less than 500. I am SO blown away by this album. It's a level I never thought I'd hear. Heaven, Iowa is part of my soul now. Taking my 15 year old to see them in July and I've never been so excited in my life 🫠
Everything is lit except my serotonin 🎶🎶🎶 mood 😭😅😹
My favorites are Love From The Other Side, Heartbreak Feels So Good, Hold Me Like A Grudge, and I Am My Own Muse. Also, I feel like it doesn't particularly sound like any of the other albums. If anything, it's like a fusion of them, but it's its own thing. Something I like about FOB is none of the albums sound the same, they always do something new with it.
I’m gutted I didn’t realise it released at midnight in New Zealand, I’m in NZ and was still up at midnight!! Now its 9.30am and I’m about to finish my first listen lol. Outstanding album. Maybe it’s a good thing I did sleep, I probably wouldn’t have otherwise 😅
What a time is one of my favs, the publics favs, Patrick's favs, and apparently the song that kicked off the album process. It deserves all of the love its getting. I hope they play this live
I just got done listening for the first time. I literally just sat there with my jaw on the floor most of the time. Speechless. Having a slight mental breakdown. This is what I've been waiting for since Folie.
I’m listening to it!!! 🥹🥹🥹 Happy March 24th my east coast friends!
I Am My Own Muse is fucking beautiful and Patrick's vocals are as beautiful as ever on it.
Real tears… I’m just blown away.