This album will make you cry. It may anger you. It will make you question everything you've ever known about life and love, but it will have been worth all the confusion with My Chemical Romance's 2004 album Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge.With their second studio album, My Chemical Romance created what lead singer Gerard Way describes as a "pseudo-conceptual horror story," a chilling tale of love, betrayal, and insanity foreshadowed by the bloodstained lovers on the cover. A masterpiece combining elements of emocore, pop punk, screamo, and alternative rock, Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge will have you listening to the end.

My Chemical Romance, a rock band from Jersey City, was formed by Gerard Way as a response to the 9/11 attacks. Gerard was originally a cartoonist (who actually designed this album's cover), but after 9/11 he decided to do something of substance with his life, hence the start of MCR. The band, consisting of Gerard and Mikey Way, Frank Iero, and Ray Toro, have come a long way from their humble beginnings. They present a new, relentless style that evolves the sound of their debut album I Brought You My Bullets, You Brought Me Your Love into something deeper and more mature.

           Opening with the track "Helena," My Chemical Romance begins Three Cheers with a passionate, haunting atmosphere that gives you the chills. Throughout the work, the instrumentals are truly striking, with MCR putting a variety of sounds on display. From the soft lull of "Interlude" that reminds you of a church hymn, the overpowering grief in "The Ghost of You," to the indignant guitar of "I'm Not Okay (I Promise)," every song builds on the previous track and offers something new. The vocals are one of the most unique aspects of the album. Gerard Way's voice reminds you of the angsty American teenager, but with a more serious, desperately emotional side that is surprisingly alluring.

           The lyrics of the album are also what makes it distinct. Instead of throwing together a random compilation of singles, MCR created a very deliberate concept album that tells a Shakespeare-worthy love story. This sets the band's newest offering apart from those of pop punk groups such as Fall Out Boy. Lines such as, "Would I die for you? Well here's your answer in spades," and, "We'll meet again when both our cars collide," discuss the true meaning of unconditional love, as well as tough topics such as loss and suicide. The sheer emotion behind the songs and the tangible passion are what make it so compelling. Three Cheers may appeal to fans of Pierce the Veil and Black Veil Brides.

           In Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge, My Chemical Romance doesn't just sing the songs, they live them, and the crazy surge of feelings that each track presents really pull you into the alternate universe of this album. It's a noteworthy experience. Certified platinum in three countries, be prepared to surrender all emotions and logic while listening to this record. Cheers!