The Fighting Jacks are yet another new band on the growing Tooth & Nail Records roster. They play a raw, emo/punk type of rock. It seems original enough, but does it work?

The answer to that question would be a resounding "yes." The Fighting Jacks are definitely in their own league, which is always a plus in and of itself. But to do it so well, and to get it done right on a debut? Phenomenal.

Oh, and might I mention the honesty of the lyrics? They rock about the kind of stuff you'd most likely hear Project 86 screaming about. However, here they do it with a somewhat milder attitude. The title of the disc, The Dying Art of Life should give you a good indication of the lyrical content of this disc. Songs like "Goodbye Senator" and "Commons and Robbers" deal with the struggle to be your own person, rather than who the world tells you to be. Really, not too much hope, but at the same time, not too much hopelessness is to be found.

It's hard to think of a band to compare The Fighting Jack's sound to, which is a very good thing in my book. These guys may not appeal to everybody, but if you're into rock and looking for something original, these guys are for you. The Dying Art of Life is a beautiful work of art.

- Review date: 10/20/03, written by Josh Taylor