I think at the center of every album is a musical thesis. This thesis can mean something different to everyone who listens. It can also change and evolve over time. For Pearl Jam "Twenty," the soundtrack acted as a rear view mirror to my own childhood. Pearl Jam was the first rock band that I loved. "No Code" was the second CD I owned. I listen to it still to this day. In a lot of ways, Pearl Jam started my fascination with Seattle and the Pacific Northwest; a place I have now called home for four years.
As I listen to this album, I am reminded of the places I've been. Every album this band has put out, has been a soundtrack to my own life. They were there for long road trips. They played in the background as fights raged, tears swelled or joy came bursting forth. Pearl Jam was played at my brother's funeral and they will be at mine. They have been everywhere with me. They will go everywhere with me too.
This music reminds me of the things I have conquered. When I struggle to put into words the trials or celebrations of my life, I find music has a way of summing up the moment better than I ever could. As I go back and listen to these songs, I am reminded where I have been. These songs act like an anthem for all that I have accomplished. They feel me with reflective joy and they possess the power to change me. At its core, I think that is what the thesis of any good album should strive to do.
Thanks for entering my world,
-Nathan
