Release Notes

Who Speaks for Planet Earth? [PA]: Release Notes: Muze 
Producers: And Then There Were None; Matt Rhoades; Sean Sweeney.Audio Mixers: Matt Rhoades; David Bendeth; J.R. McNeely.And Then There Were None began life as a metal band, but when leader Matt Rhoades found that he no longer had anything metal left to say, they turned to uplifting Euro dance music for a fresh sound. WHO SPEAKS FOR PLANET EARTH remains true to their ideals, as much about social change as it is about emotions. The tempos and soaring choruses are still in an emo mold, but the vehicle delivering them is built of blips and synths, bright and glossy and positive. Even their Richard Marx cover fits in seamlessly, a pop treat with a new spin.The Tooth & Nail label has long been known for emo and nu-metal acts, but the 2009 release by And Then There Were None, Who Speaks for Planet Earth?, will probably come as a surprise to both fans of the band and those who follow the label's releases. While the lead vocals (courtesy of Matt Rhoades) and peculiar song titles still remain quite emo-esque, the music is -- get ready for this -- unabashedly dance-based. In place of guitar, electro beeps and swirls are at the forefront here, especially on such songs as "John Orr the Arsonist," "Reinventing Robert Cohn," and a barely recognizable cover of the sappy Richard Marx hit from the 1980s, "Right Here Waiting." With rock music quite possibly the most predictable it's ever been in its entire history circa the early 21st century, it's good to hear a band taking chances and fooling around with its previous formula. And as evidenced by Who Speaks for Planet Earth?, And Then There Were None are certainly daredevils. Whether the world (and especially the group's fans) are ready for "emo dance" is another story. ~ Greg Prato

Credits

Performer And Then There Were None