Movies with Heroes has that quintessential "emo" band name, which is compiled by: 1) pop culture activity or reference (here this would be the "movies" portion) 2) preposition or some type of connecting word (with) and 3) any type of more detailed word in direct reference to the first word in which the band is portrayed as lonely, sad, distant or out of the ordinary (heroes). Many band names under this categorization are most likely formed by countless hours of perusing xanga or live journal sites searching under the phrase "The Promise Ring," but regardless of these somewhat humorous beginnings, Movies with Heroes is a solid band. In a time when the secret of indie rock has been leaked to MTV, it is very difficult to hear something fresh, enjoyable and new. Movies with Heroes, however, impresses on many levels with four songs of poppy/melodic creativity. Emo indie rock it is, but perhaps a better label would be passionate, sincere and fine-tuned.
The same cannot be said about In Clover, though. Their four song contribution could be cited as mediocre at best. The music is sloppy and the vocals are annoying. They resemble Movies with Heroes enough in style to justify the split EP, but lack any clear direction with songwriting. In Clover is not horrible, but the difference in talent between the two bands is great enough to make them appear as different as Woody Allen's classic Annie Hall and anything he has made in the 90's. Regardless, if you are going to buy this record, do it quickly, because word of Movies with Heroes will most likely travel to Make Out Club soon enough.
Editors' ratings — Doug 3/5, David 3/5
Other coverage for this album
The Phantom Tollbooth 2003Reviewed by Trae CadenheadFrom Nashville-based Theory 8 Records comes a split EP from two bands that dance around in the indie rock vein. First on the CD is Movies with Heroes. Their brand of emotion-laced rock is easily comparable to Jimmy Eat World, but not necessarily identical. The four-piece band has a tight sound and has penned some good songs. Album opener "Someday" is rather easy to relate to: "She says I'm always…Decapolis October 2002Reviewed by Tom BastianThis release is a split EP between Lancaster PA based band Movies with Heroes (formerly Mack, the Coffeeman) and Maryland based In Clover (formerly The Reflecting Light). This split EP was released by rookie label Theory 8 Records, which is based in Nashville, TN. I'm generally not a fan of the EP, especially split EP's. Generally an EP is used as either a contract filler by indie bands that are…Similar sounding releases
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