Modern Life Is War 7-inch EP was released through Lifeline Records in early 2002. Their two subsequent studio albums, 2003's My Love. My Way. and 2005's Witness are now available through the Deathwish Inc. record label, which is owned and operated by Converge singer Jacob Bannon.
In mid-2005, after the release of Witness, guitarist Matt Hoffman and bassist Chris Honeck left the band. They were replaced by Sjarm 13 and Tim Churchman, respectively. On February 9, 2007, M.L.I.W. announced that they had inked a record deal with Equal Vision Records. The band's third full length album, Midnight in America, was released on August 21, 2007 to positive reviews.
On February 19, 2008, the band announced on their Myspace page that they would be breaking up, and that they were planning one final American tour, starting March 29 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and reconvening on April 26 in the band's hometown of Marshalltown. In a separate interview conducted several weeks before the tour, the band members discussed their hopes and achievements in playing together for the last six years: "I hope that we have made some people feel less alone. I hope we have motivated people to think for themselves; to be themselves and to take action. Punk rock changed our lives, and I hope that we as a band contributed something to keep the whole thing going. We are leaving soon, but the future is unwritten..."
In September 2012, the original lineup reunited and wrote an album in John Eich's basement. Modern Life is War formally announced its reunion in April 2013 and the intent to record and release the new album through Deathwish by September 2013. The band didn't expect to heavily tour during the reunion; as of April 2013, Modern Life Is War were only booked to headline This Is Hardcore Festival and a record release show. Retrospectively, Modern Life is War wished they hadn't broken up, but instead scaled back their efforts so they could do it, "without so much stress and life crushing commitment." The band released their fourth studio album Fever Hunting on September 9, 2013 through Deathwish, which was produced by Kurt Ballou of Converge. Modern Life is War embarked on a six-date tour in celebration of the new album in October 2013.
Jeffrey Eaton - Vocals
John Paul Eich - Guitar
Matt Hoffman - Guitar
Chris Honeck - Bass
Tyler Oleson - Drums
Self Preservation
Modern Life Is War Lyrics
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The song "Self Preservation" by Modern Life Is War is an anthem for youth who are fighting against societal norms and expectations in order to create their own reality. The lyrics indicate that traditional values and practicality are not worth sacrificing ambition and motivation for. The "uncommon kids" are those who are willing to take risks and challenge the status quo, even if it means being judged or misunderstood.
The song encourages listeners to embrace their pain, use it as fuel, and create a life that is worth living. The line "focus on the pain and find the strength to make your own reality" implies that instead of avoiding discomfort or suppressing emotions, one should face them head-on and transform them into something productive. The phrase "self-preservation" represents the act of prioritizing oneself and one's dreams over the expectations of others.
Overall, the message of the song is that life is too short to settle for mediocrity or conformity. The lyrics urge listeners to take control of their own lives and pursue their passions with vigor.
Line by Line Meaning
This is ambition: as ugly as it gets.
Ambition is often seen as an ugly, ruthless trait.
Uncommon kids and their fight against an early death by common sense.
Unconventional youth fighting against societal norms and expectations that may lead to a meaningless life.
This is motivation: free of contempt.
Motivation not driven by hate or anger.
Our generation has come of age...and left us here with bitterness.
The older generation has failed to provide a better future, leaving the younger generation unsatisfied.
So when you're feeling jagged and you think you've gone fucking mad: salt your wounds.
When feeling overwhelmed, confront your emotions and pain.
Feel the sting of the things you never had, the things you always wanted, and the things they said you would never be.
Acknowledge the disappointment of unattainable dreams and societal limitations placed upon oneself.
Focus on the pain and find the strength to make your own reality.
Use the pain and hurt as a motivator to create a better life.
Please understand...you only live your life but once.
Life is short and should be lived without regret.
So don't hold back and don't live it in a rut.
Do not be afraid and live life to the fullest.
For far too long we've heard “life's not like that” from timid souls: longing and filled with regret.
Many have been pessimistic and complacent, leading to unfulfilling lives.
But why should we take advice from the boring-working-brain-dead?
Do not take advice from those without passion or drive.
We're forward thinking youth and we can use our own heads.
The young generation is capable of creating their own path.
Self preservation!
Take care of oneself and prioritize personal well-being.
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
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Bim5150
This one is kinda underrated but it's one of the best tracks of the album.
Yan Sun
powerfull song as i really like.A good new band in my ears today !!!
Laurent Thiong-Kay
Amazing track.