Sometimes there are artists that can reach to the very depths of your soul and reveal a part of yourself you never thought existed. For me, Pedro the Lion has the ability to do exactly this. When I heard their new album "Winners Never Quit" was going to be coming out, I eagerly looked forward to getting it. As I combed the choices of CDs at a small record store down in Chicago I found the album I had been so desiring. Eagerly I purchased it with the few dollars I have as a college student; then ever so gently tucked it into my purse to be listened to later on that night. Finally the time was right and I hit the PLAY button. Greeted by the soft vocals and a strumming guitar, I remembered how much I loved Pedro the Lion. I listened to it several times in the next few days. Overall the album is soothing, but still contains a sense of urgency. The only analogy I could compare this album with would be like to sitting in a gently rocking boat and being calm and at peace. As the album progresses, the horizon becomes clouded, and a sense of urgency or fear becomes instilled. Each note brings you ever closer to a finale you are not sure of. What makes this sense even more keen is the lyrical content. David Bazan's, who by the way played all the instruments and did vocals on this album, writing is not a style typical to most songwriters. His albums are like stories. You can not fully comprehend a Pedro the Lion album until you listen to it closely enough to understand the lyrics. In fact, listening to it several times is necessary to take in the fullness of this album. Do not hit the random button or you will lose the momentum of this album. 'Winners Never Quit" is a complex story involving heaven, murder, and the mistakes we make. For those that believe that an album can only be good if the lyrics are straightforward and give the plan of salvation, this album is not for you. Read the lyrics and listen to the message he is presenting. I would not even attempt to decipher this album for you, it would destroy the purpose and theme Pedro the Lion tries to get across. This album puts you into a dream like and pensive state. Comfortable take a seat on the boat and watch as Pedro the Lion slowly rows you towards the storm ahead, and realize the peace as you come out on the other side a different person, as if someone spoke and calmed the storm.
-Katy
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