February 14, 2023

“Commit This To Memory” is the second full-length studio album from the Minnesota-based rock band Motion City Soundtrack. Released on June 7, 2005, the album is 3 days older than yours truly.

“Commit This To Memory” opens with “Attractive Today,” in which lead vocalist Justin Courtney Pierre expresses dissatisfaction with his current state of life.

“Attractive Today” seamlessly transitions into “Everything Is Alright.” The song features guest vocals from Patrick Stump, the lead vocalist for Fall Out Boy. In the song, Justin makes references to his struggle with a history of alcohol abuse. This remains an important theme throughout the album. 

“When You’re Around” is a fit of discontent about Justin’s current relationship. “Resolution” offers a parallel perspective as he sobers up and expresses that he is the problem. 

In “Time Turned Fragile,” Justin reminisces about his youth with the lyrics: “Hockey games, medical claims, police reports, terrible grades / J, I’m so proud of all the things you’ve done.”

“Better Open the Door” offers a deeper dive into Justin’s relationship with alcohol. He expresses how his addiction affects his day-to-day life, listing friendships negatively impacted by his addiction.

“Together We’ll Ring In The New Year” has Justin expressing regrets of a past relationship in a drunken, defeated state. He ends the song accepting his situation: “This must be it, welcome to the new year.”

“Hold Me Down” concludes the album with Justin expressing that the breakup from his past relationship was ultimately for the best. The song arguably has a double meaning: Justin entering a place of sobriety and defeating his addiction.

I was fortunate enough to attend the anniversary tour of this album on January 2, 2020, when Motion City Soundtrack played at the House of Blues in Cleveland. The band performed well and engaged with the crowd for a great show. 

“Commit This To Memory” is an iconic mid-2000s alternative rock staple. While the album certainly isn’t for everyone, if you enjoy the early days of bands such as Fall Out Boy and Twenty One Pilots, I suggest giving the album a listen.