30 Seconds to Mars: New alt-rock album cuts to the core
By:  Jonathan Love
October 11, 2005
Decatur Daily
Credit: Aitana

30 Seconds to Mars released "A Beautiful Lie," a thoughtful, introspective follow-up to the band's 2002 debut album.

30 Seconds to Mars' follow-up album, "A Beautiful Lie," sets itself apart from the band's 2002 self-titled debut album. "A Beautiful Lie" is refreshing and unique. Released in August, this album resets the bar for the band.

Front man and actor, Jared Leto, was quoted as saying, "The last thing we wanted to do was make the same record twice."

He did what he hoped. 30 Seconds to Mars' debut album thrived on creative exploration and escape. "A Beautiful Lie" takes a new turn focusing on what is genuine and honest, including in the album stories of life, love, death and pain. The album reflects its own creation, portraying the band's ups and downs, anger and joy. Its first single, "Attack," is an expression of rebirth featuring energetic keyboards, abrasive guitars and addictive vocals, which range from a pain-stricken wail to an intimate whisper.

The entire album is incredible, each song having a different life than the other. Each one tells a new story. You do not feel as if you are listening to the same song over and over again. One of the most appealing aspects of the album is its variety of songs and sounds.

I have spent countless hours listening to this album, absorbing every lyric, every note. The words cut to the core. You will listen and come back for more. I know I have.

With beautifully complex guitar solos and amazing vocals, 30 Seconds to Mars sets itself apart as one of the next big artists of the alternative rock scene.

Anyone who is into the rock or alternative scenes should definitely check out this band.

Jonathan Love is a senior at Decatur Heritage Christian Academy.