Flyleaf is an alternative-rock band from Texas. Their 2005 platinum selling debut album Flyleaf was lead by the success of their single "I'm So Sick". Flyleaf has returned with their sophomore effort, Memento Mori which translates in Latin to "be mindful of death", or "remember you will die".
While hard rock is usually the territory of lyrics about interpersonal struggles, on Memento Mori, Flyleaf focuses on spiritual struggles and devotional lyrics. On the range of mainstream artists, who happen to be Christians, Flyleaf falls closer to P.O.D. than Chevelle. Their lyrics have pretty unmistakable meanings and references. Some Christians would likely scoff if they heard how hard the band's music is at times or one of the occasional screams. But, the inner battles, spiritual warfare, and redemptive lyrics are actually perfect material for a hard rock album. And on one track in particular, the hard rock and the inspirational message clash beautifully.
Memento Mori has a variety of sounds. The pop-rock tracks like "Tiny Heart" and "Treasure" are solid with excellent vocals and great melodies. Flyleaf has far outdone any comparable tracks on their debut album. If you're looking for an all out hard rock album that reflects the lead single "Again", Momento Mori is not it. The sounds range from the lighter fare to harder, driving, alt-rock.
Memento Mori's highlight for me was "Swept Away", one of the album's harder songs. It features lead singer Lacey Mosely describing a friend who's in a dark place while she pleads to them to follow God. Musically and lyrically, the track has a strong duality as the two sides square off in a bout of spiritual warfare. It's marked with layers of eerie and distorted sound effects including what sounds like inhuman growls. The effects add mood, atmosphere, and weight to the conflict.
Article comments
1 - Ronin
I've been waiting for new Flyleaf FOREVER, it's about time Memento Mori came out. I don't know if you've heard of the band they're traveling with, Paper Tongues...but I just checked them out a little while ago and they're REALLY good, you should check out their website. Like I said, they're REALLY good.
2 - Zach P.
I'm very excited that there's only 5 days left until the release. I'm loving Flyleaf in their entirety. You should visit their site.
3 - Jade =)
I've been a fan of Flyleaf since they were an indie band called Passerby, and it's been amazing to watch them grow and progress as a band.... they continue to get better and better, so I cannot wait to get the full release of Memento Mori... my hopes are definitely way for this one!
4 - Patrick
I can't wait for their new album to come out! I know that is going to be very spiritually reviving. Although alot of Christians don't like the hard rock sounds, sometimes music just like Flyleaf's helps me forget all the outside noises and focus on the message. Its great stuff!
5 - Marti
I love Flyleaf, and I've been anticipating Memento Mori ever since it was announced! I really love how their lyrics drive their songs and really make you stop and think.
6 - Mike
Can't wait for the new album 11/10/09! Flyleaf rocks! My daughter and I really enjoy listening to them together.
7 - Jayride
Flyleaf has DEFINITELY come a long way. The conviction in their songs and the way it's presented in their music is truly art compared to a lot of the prepackaged junk out there today. [edited] They have an AWESOME setup to help follow along on their journey. Can't wait to see them in MPLS next week!!!!
8 - diskoball7
tuesday can't come any sooner! seeing the [Flyleaf] video on youtube you know it's just gonna rock. =) [Edited] let's rock!
9 - Hannah
Love Flyleaf! Soo exited about the release of their new CD 11/10/09 Momento Mori [Edited]
10 - TJ Wessel
Ahhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!! 2 more days... I'm not sure i can wait any longer! ok... deep breath... mmmhhhhhmmmmmmm... alrighty... can't wait to hear it!
11 - hxchip
Definitely looking forward to this release. Their debut was great (though I still love their old stuff as Passerby), but judging from the samples this one is way more polished. Thanks for the preview!
12 - ProfessorGadgets
looking forward to the new album tomorrow!
13 - Derek Berg
Love Flyleaf, can't wait for their album to come out tomorrow! From what I've heard it should be awesome!
14 - Retodd
Damn it!! I didn't really understand the whole holy roller thing on the previous album but they really push it on this album. I hate to say it cause I loved their 1st album soooo much but Flyleaf=One album wonder!!
15 - Barb Brown
I loved Flyleafs earlier work. They have totally outdone themselves this time. Lacy lights things up in this one. Literally in the vid. LOL check them out on youtube!!!!
16 - Natasha
Thanks for the great and honest review. We love the new album and think it pushes Flyleaf in new and exciting directions!
17 - John Sharpe
Nice review. This band, above all, represents passion and in rock passion is where the real music lies. It can be the kiss of death to be labeled a "christian band" but Flyleaf have the courage to follow their hearts. Hopefully they continue to speak from the heart and don't descend into a 700 club commercial. There are more than enough false prophets in the world already.
As a side note, I find it interesting (and sickly ironic) that a few christian groups have already tried to use their image and steal their voice. The same christian groups who have been telling me to burn my rock music for 30 years.