Calling on Blue Skies

A Shrine to the Retarded Disfigured Clowns

[callingonblueskies]

And I raised my hand as if to show you that I was yours That I was so yours for the taking I'm so yours for the taking That's when I felt the wind pick up I grabbed the rail while choking up These words to say and then you kissed me...

18th Floor Balcony -- Blue October

[callingonblueskies]

Foiled. An Album Review

You Make Me Smile:

“This song has kind of like a childhood dream vibe. The music is super vibey and nice. And I love this guy’s voice. Overall, the song has a nostalgic feeling to it. The lyrics are really interesting too.

She’s My Ride Home

“This one reminds me of backseat drives at night. Like, when you’re a kid and you’re coming home from vacation on the highway. It’s 2am and dark and all you can see are the streetlights passing by the car every so often. This song feels exactly like that.”

Into The Ocean

“Into the Ocean feels both bouncy and yet also a little subdued in the beginning. When the chorus comes in though, it feels like the tarp has been pulled off and the song is so much bigger and then it just as quickly goes back down for the next verse. It feels really fun and yet when you hear the lyrics it spells such a different message.”

What If We Could

“The song starts with a somber sounding violin that really sets the tone. Soon after a guitar comes in followed by drums and this song really picks up. By the chorus, the lead singer sounds even angry and the song sounds like an accusatory callout. The lyrics feed further into the angry tone.”

Hate Me

“The song has a really nice introduction that plays a voicemail from the mom of the lead singer (Justin) checking in on him. This is backed by Justin’s fans singing one of his more famous songs to him.

Let It Go

“As with many of their other songs, the violin really brings this piece together. As with that, the tight melodies in this song brings over a euphoric and beautiful vibe. The whole song feels like flying.”

Congratulations

“The song is like a swing, between the sweet and somber verses and the soul bursting chorus. It feels like a when you’re trying to get something out and finally you just burst and say it, followed by that feeling of regret or remorse, like you shouldn’t have said anything. That’s what this song is.”

Overweight

“This song feels like a garage band mixed with church choir at some points. The lyrics and background vocals really are what drive this song. The message is just of someone who can’t handle being the shoulder to lean on any longer, and we all know that feeling.”

X-Amount Of Words

“This song has a cyber/futuristic feeling. I could imagine it being played in a club scene in a movie set in the future. The lyricism is full of metaphors and vivid imagery that make this a fun song to listen to.”

Drilled A Wire Through My Cheek

“This song is very visceral. The sound is definitely the most alternative out of the whole album. The verses are semi-docile but quickly that turns into unadulterated grunge and rock. A great song to just rock out to.”

Sound Of Pulling Heaven Down

“This song is called what it is for a reason. When I hear it, it literally sounds both heavenly as well as kind of action-packed. You can imagine someone throwing a rope into the sky and pulling heaven down to this song.”

Everlasting Friend

“This song is just pure wholesomeness. It’s a simple song about having that one friend who you know will be with you through anything. No matter how low you are or how far away they are, you’ll always be friends. Wonderful song.”

18th Floor Balcony

“This is the crowning song of the album. Ending with this is a winner. This is a song that you play at 2am when you get back from a date with your girlfriend and you slow dance in the driveway, this song playing on the car stereo with the doors open. This song is one of Blue October’s most beautiful and it shows, even from just the first opening G played on the guitar.”

[callingonblueskies]

The first time I felt missed The first time that we kissed I want that back again What I'm asking you is hard 'Cause I know I broke your heart But if you'll please let me in I'm sorry for the things I did to you I'm sorry for the shit I put you through Can we go back to when we both knew How to dance in time

How To Dance In Time -- Blue October

[callingonblueskies]

A Very Blue November

           It was the end of Fall 2018, November 8th to be exact. The date marked 1 year that I had spent with my girlfriend, Emma. In order to celebrate the occasion, I decided to take her to a concert; and, we all know exactly who I was taking her to see. I had bought 2 tickets to the show in Poughkeepsie, NY at The Bardavon 1869 Opera House for the night November 8th.

           The evening started with a day trip to Poughkeepsie having dinner at a very well-rated Chinese Buffet, which we both agreed would be a fun little place to eat at. The drive from Emma’s house to the buffet was about an hour. We arrived ate and had a fun time hanging out since the concert wouldn’t be starting until 8pm that night. We arrived with about 3 hours blocked out for dinner. 2 and a half hours for eating, and half an hour to get to the Bardavon. And though dinner was delicious, the anticipation was building as we inched closer and closer to the concert hour.

           The concert hall didn’t open until half an hour before the show, and I wasn’t wise with my bathroom scheduling so, there was a bit of running back and forth looking for a bathroom as well as a warm place to sit. Eventually, we found a nice little hotel where some girl was having a sweet 16. We used the bathroom and hung out in the main lounge for a bit to warm up before heading back to the Opera House.

           The inside of the Opera House was a beautiful sight. Tall ceilings and classic theatre design made the space feel so beautiful. The curtains on the stage were closed and usually, it’s a pretty good wait until even the opening act starts. I knew exactly what I wanted to spend my time on, though. The merch table right at the front looked so enticing and I knew I just had to buy something to remember the day. I had purchased the concert tickets as well as our dinner, and I drove, so Emma offered to buy us matching band t-shirts, which I agreed to. As soon as I had it, I put it on over the shirt I was already wearing. Nothing feels better than a new t-shirt, straight from the concert. I quickly realized though, I would overheat easily in two shirts.

           After removing my new shirt and tucking it away, I took my seat, I waited for the performance to start. Soon enough it did. The lights went down. The curtain slowly opened. Standing center stage in the dark, backlit by dim blue lighting, a silhouette of a man with a violin. Recognition immediately hit me. Ryan Delahoussaye, the band’s violinist. He raises his violin to his chin and places the bow upon the strings. What followed was an amazing half an hour of unbelievable rock-esque solo violin playing. I was all pumped up and ready to go after that. Blue October, here I come.

           After a brief blackout on stage, the lights rise to find all the members on stage. Justin is standing center stage at the microphone. It’s always a thrill getting to see your idol in person. And then everything kicks off. Song after song, the crowd is drawn in and we all scream-sing the words that are etched into all of our hearts. The room buzzes with electricity and everyone is so connected. And then it happened… The one thing I would have never expected to happen. Blue October has 113 between their 9 studio albums, as well as bonus tracks, singles, and even hidden tracks on the album, such as letting Foiled continue playing for 10-15mins after the last song ends to find “It’s Just Me”. With all those songs to choose from, it’s up in the air at any given time what they might play. And yet, out of all of them, they played “The Worry List” from Any Man in America. My favorite song by them. Possibly my favorite song period. The room fell silent for a moment, as Justin pulled out an acoustic guitar, and sang this song dedicated to his daughter. Everyone raised their hands in the air and incrementally joined in. The experience was transcending any expectations I’d had. The perfect concert to celebrate such a happy day. The concert ended after 2 or so more songs and I was floored with the performance, wanting anything but the night to be over. And somewhere someone must have heard that prayer because the night was not over.

           Following the concert, it was announced that Justin and Ryan would be signing things at the merch table. My heart almost leaped through my chest. This was my chance. The chance to meet my idol. This person I’ve respected and looked up to for a literal 3rd of my life, starting when I was 12 in the 7th grade. I had to take it. I immediately ran with Emma to get into the merch line. It was a bit of waiting around but, I didn’t mind in the slightest. As the line moved, we got closer to the merch table. The setup was you would pass by the merch in order to buy something if you hadn’t already, and then you go further down the table to take that merch to Justin and Ryan for signing. I decided, instead of getting my shirt signed, I would buy a vinyl to get signed since I hadn’t had the chance to buy a signed vinyl online yet, and it would be more special to have it signed in person.

           With my vinyl, I had traveled down the table and came upon Ryan. We talked for a minute as he signed my record and I told him how amazing he was. Emma seemed to like his playing even more than I did. They talked for a minute as well. Finally, the moment I’d dreamed of for so long. Justin accepted the vinyl from me and grinned saying, “You have awesome hair,” before turning to Emma and asking, “Is he your man? You are one lucky girl.” I was beaming. Growing this afro out for the school musical was all worth it. I shook his hand, telling him how much his music meant to me and how it was a big reason why I decided to keep going. He looked at me with a sincere grin and said, “It’s hearing things like that, that make me keep going every day. Thank you.” I took my vinyl from him, said goodbye, and walked out of the theatre with Emma. It was tough to do, but I managed to hold my tears until I got outside. I was overwhelmed with so much emotion. The saying always goes “Never meet your heroes”, but I had met mine and he was everything I could have hoped him to be.

           The car ride home was an hour of peaceful music and a straight highway drive. Emma fell asleep and I sat and thought as I drove. I reflected on every part of the day. I thought about all the things that occurred from eating in a buffet to shaking Justin’s hand. And as I recapped all the scenes in my mind like a movie, I concluded that there wasn’t a thing I would have changed. This was a perfect day. The concert was perfect. And so I drove home, feeling as infinite as I ever have and possibly ever will.

[callingonblueskies]

I'm tired and twisted, barely breathing, buried in the dark... A could've been. Don't be concerned, that's just the power of a breaking heart... How good am I hiding it? Look, I've got some bad intentions. Guilty as fucking charged. Still standing stable, more than able, cause I know who you are. I know the birthdays, anniversaries, all the first days I missed. I regret them all, but But now I know this;

The Worry List -- Blue October

[callingonblueskies]

What Blue October Album You Should Listen to Based on your Zodiac:

Aries: History for Sale

The up-tempo rock is great for a high energy Aries personality.

Taurus: The Answers

The smooth and sweet and soft tones of this album are perfect for Taurus’ to relax to.

Gemini: Foiled

The vast difference between the style of tracks on this album is great for the diverse minds of Geminis.

Cancer: Consent to Treatment

The physical and emotional aspects of this album would be wonderful for the intuitive nature of Cancers.

Leo: Sway

The moving songs on this album are great for the passion of a Leo personality.

Virgo: Home

The soft and well natured mood of this album are great for a Virgo’s personality.

Libra: I Hope You’re Happy

The carefree and yet intentional feeling from this album is great for Libra’s desire for balance.

Scorpio: Any Man in America

The raw emotion poured out in this album is perfect for the emotionally-oriented Scorpio to connect with.

Sagittarius: Approaching Normal

The character study-esque feeling to the album is great for the knowledge-seeking Sagittarius.

Capricorn: Songs from an Open Book

This is one of the most emotional albums and thus is great for the emotional nature of Capricorns.

Aquarius: Things We Do at Night

The mash-up of songs on this album is great for the humanitarian side of the Aquarius personality

Pisces: Argue with a Tree

The childlike idea of arguing with a tree appeals to the fantasy seeking personality of a Pisces.

[callingonblueskies]

The sunset rains, like a bullethole Trees only seem for hanging The moon is a target range And rivers seem only for drowning You ball the blame Then you starve to finish your painting Its gonna take time my friend You have to keep graceful dancing

Graceful Dancing -- Blue October

[callingonblueskies]

Coal Makes Vinyl

The slow-moving air in the room drifts upon the moon’s surface turned dark for the night.

A soft scratching floats down the canals teasing the drums.

Seven confused musical-thieves follow behind, disturbing the stillness.

Moving with a distorted warble.

Bands of morally-opposite pirates follow behind, adding to the invasion.

And another.

And another.

Tidal waves push them in further and further until the sea of the mind is overrun.

A beautiful ebb and flow of tones that are drawn deeper in with every rise and fall of the tide.

The whirlpool stirs with the churning of melodies and harmonies.

The ones who always inadvertently give more than they take have returned.

And the sea allows itself to be subservient to the man-made waves.

Offering a harbor to dock in for the night.

And the sea falls motionless, in all but the tranquil ripples of the welcomed invaders.

This is poem is about the moments when the room is quiet and the vinyl for Home is just starting up and those 7 notes come in and “Coal Makes Diamonds” lulls me to sleep.

[callingonblueskies]

Learning to love life by living through loss and mistakes. Lessons learned then gradually surfacing, Letting go, stripping naked to scream. I am not perfect nor do I strive to be, I am alive in this world of face first falls and public breakdowns. I'm a retarded, disfigured clown. Dying to be heard through the simple art of letting this heavy wall finally fall. I'm an equal being of no race, or color, a hallucination if you will. Sneaking into the lives of strangers, and letting them fall apart to a new rhythm just to feel better.

Retarded Disfigured Clown -- Blue October

[callingonblueskies]

Interview With Meghan R.

I played three of my favorite Blue October songs to one of my friends, Meghan, and asked her to rate each of the songs from 1-10 as well as provide a few little remarks about the song before we proceeded onto the next song. Finally, I asked that she provide a brief description of her feelings towards these specific songs as well as the band as a whole. The songs in order are “3 Weeks, She Sleeps”, “The Scar”, and “Weight of the World”.

 “3 Weeks, She Sleeps”

Rate the Song from 1-10: 9

Any Additional Thoughts: “The song has a lot of super pretty instruments. It’s shortish but, it’s a very cute and fun song. Simple and very effective” (Meghan).

“The Scar”

Rate the Song from 1-10: 7.5

Any Additional Thoughts: “The lyrics started off kind of creepy but then they got kind of sad. I could vibe with it though. It’s very sweet sounding” (Meghan).

“Weight of the World”

Rate the Song from 1-10: 8

Any Additional Thoughts: “This is like really rockin’. His voice has such a grungy sound to it. I love it. I think he has such a nice sound” (Meghan).

 Final Thoughts:

“I think the singers voice is very peaceful. He has like, a large range of how he can sound. Like, it was soft and sweet in the first one but, then in the last one he had a like raw power to his voice. They also have a nice use of instruments. The lyrics are well thought out and I love when people put time into their lyrics to really articulate what they’re trying to say. All the songs were pleasing to the ear, like even the sad song was a feel-good song. I’d listen to them again. Like, I could have their discography on loop without getting a headache. And I think lastly, I just love that the songs have such a narrative to them. Yeah, I’d listen to them again” (Meghan).

[callingonblueskies]

I'll be reaching for the stars with you (honey) Who cares if no one else believes. So I, set fire to everyone around. But I told you, I told you, we'd do it.

She’s My Ride Home -- Blue October

[callingonblueskies]

Why Any Man in America is the Best Album. A Music Review

Blue October is a very successful and long running band. Releasing their first album in 1998, they have released two video albums‎, nine studio albums‎, five live albums‎, and nineteen music videos‎, with the most recent album being released in 2018. With such variety to chose from, it’s no small feat to narrow down which album is the best. Luckily, I have figured out which album stands above the rest.

Any Man in America is Blue October’s 6th studio album, released August 26, 2011. This album chronicles the divorce and custody battle of the lead singer Justin Furstenfeld. Over the course of 13 songs over the album, Justin gives insight into the problems with his marriage as well as a heartbreaking behind the scenes look into the mind of a father losing custody of his daughter. Some notable songs being “The Flight (Lincoln to Minneapolis)” which talks about Justin’s violent thoughts such as breaking into the house of the man whom his wife cheated on him with and smashing his face in or “Any Man In America” which is essentially a hate letter to the American legal system as well as his ex-wife for taking his daughter away from him. These are only a couple songs that give a look into Justin’s state of mind during this time in his life.

Any Man in America shines like most Blue October albums due to the gripping reality behind all the lyrics. The context and emotion behind this album really makes it stand a cut above the rest though. With an emotional second to last song entitled “The Worry List” that comes back to the line “I might have been gone but I never walked out” several times throughout the song’s runtime, it is easy to see the sheer pain, desperation, and sadness that was poured into the album. Any Man in America is a defining point in Blue October’s career as it marks a shift in the tone of their music. All of these points together lead Any Man in America to be Blue October’s best album.

[callingonblueskies]

Give me strength to be kind... To combine All the good things in life that are so hard to find

A Quiet Mind -- Blue October

[callingonblueskies]

A text collage of all of Blue October’s album covers within each letter, backed by a band photo.

Album Titles in Order Below:

The Answers

Consent to Treatment

History for Sale

Foiled

Approaching Normal

Any Man in America

Sway

Home

I Hope You’re Happy

King (Single)

Argue With A Tree (Live)

[callingonblueskies]

Who’s Who in the Band?

The current members are Justin Furstenfeld (lead vocals, guitar), Jeremy Furstenfeld (drums, percussion), Ryan Delahoussaye (violin/viola, mandolin, piano, backing vocals), Matt Noveskey (bass guitar, backing vocals), and Will Knaak (lead guitar).