When Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge came barreling over the airwaves the summer of 2004, the world was introduced to a strange band from New Jersey that sang about death, depression, love, regret, and revenge. My Chemical Romance’s second album, and their first on a major label, not only made a lasting cultural impact, their sonic storytelling created an enduring safe place for many. Full of blazing riffs, morbidly catchy lyrics, and melodies that are perfect for screaming along to, Revenge has certainly withstood the test of time. There is definitely something charming and nostalgic about the overly compressed original, and like many fans I was hesitant that slicker mixes would detract from its chaotic, wild abandon. The clarity of this new release however, only enhances the manic, wheels-about-to-fall-off energy and ups the ante with a whole new intensity. Two of the best aspects of the new mix are the background vocals and the attention given to the intricate interwoven guitar parts, which have always been one of the strongest, and overlooked, elements of MCR’s music. Indeed, the new mix by Rich Costey is almost like hearing these songs for the first time again, giving the astounding skill, talent, and heart of the record a much-deserved fresh shine.