Roses Are Red Celebrates 20 Years of Conversations with Special Vinyl Release and New Music
Emo and melodic rock enthusiasts have reason to celebrate as Conversations, the iconic album from Roses Are Red, marks its 20th anniversary. First released on September 21, 2004, Conversations quickly became a standout in the emo scene, and two decades later, it remains a cherished piece of the genre’s history. To commemorate this milestone, Roses Are Red has teamed up with Smartpunk Records to reissue the album on vinyl for the first time, offering fans three exclusive vinyl variants.
This special anniversary release is more than just a nostalgic nod to the past. It’s a testament to the lasting influence Conversations has had on the emo and melodic rock landscape. The album was integral in defining the band’s sound and their place within a rapidly growing scene in the early 2000s. Now, with its vinyl debut, both new listeners and longtime fans can revisit the record in a format that emphasizes the raw emotion and intricate musicianship that made Conversations so beloved.
A Look Back at the Band’s Legacy
When Conversations first hit the scene in 2004, Roses Are Red quickly gained momentum. Touring relentlessly, the band made a name for themselves through performances on the Vans Warped Tour in 2004 and 2005, and the Take Action Tour in 2006. Sharing stages with heavy hitters like My Chemical Romance, Alkaline Trio, and Hawthorne Heights, Roses Are Red solidified their place in the emo and melodic rock pantheon. The band’s features in key publications like Alternative Press, Revolver, and Outburn only further heightened their profile.
The reissue of Conversations is not just a re-release; it’s an expanded version that includes special additions for fans. Among these is a cover of the Smashing Pumpkins classic "Cherub Rock," paying homage to one of the most influential bands of the alternative rock era. Additionally, a demo version of “Time Signals Progress” is included, offering fans a glimpse into the creative process behind one of the album’s standout tracks.
Adding to the excitement, Roses Are Red will perform a special "20 Years of Conversations" show on September 21, 2024, in their hometown of Rochester, NY. This highly anticipated concert promises to be a thrilling celebration, bringing together fans and old friends alike. It’s a momentous occasion for the band and their supporters, as Roses Are Red prepares to revisit the album that played such a pivotal role in shaping their career.
Revisiting the Scene’s Golden Era
Conversations was more than just an album; it was a defining moment in the mid-2000s emo scene. Blurring the lines between aggressive melodic rock and emotional introspection, the album resonated with a generation searching for a voice. Tracks like "White and Gold," "Oceans," and "You and Me Both" perfectly captured the vulnerability and intensity that characterized the emo movement. The blend of heartfelt lyrics and soaring instrumentals made Conversations a standout release in an era brimming with talented acts.
Reflecting on the reissue, lead vocalist Vincent Minervino described revisiting the album as akin to "reconnecting with an old flame." He explained, “We all have those butterflies in our stomachs, just like seeing a DM request from your first love. The entire experience means so much to us, and we couldn’t have been more thrilled when Smartpunk approached us about a vinyl pressing to celebrate the 20th anniversary.” This sentiment perfectly encapsulates the emotional connection many fans have to the album, making the reissue even more special.
Minervino’s excitement about returning to the stage to perform the album in full is palpable. “We can’t wait to play the songs again on stage with our old friends, and we are super excited for this new chapter of the band,” he shared. For both the band and their fans, this reunion show promises to be a memorable and emotional experience.
New Music and a Fresh Chapter for Roses Are Red
In addition to the anniversary reissue of Conversations, Roses Are Red has exciting news for fans—new music is on the way. After an impressive 18-year hiatus, the band has returned to the studio and released "Memento," their first new track in nearly two decades. This song embodies a perfect blend of modern soundscapes with the nostalgic energy that made Roses Are Red a key player in the emo scene.
"Memento" taps into the current wave of emo revival, while still retaining the band’s signature sound. For those who have been following Roses Are Red since their early days, the track is a refreshing return to form. For newer listeners, "Memento" serves as an introduction to a band that helped shape the emo and melodic rock genres, while also showcasing how they’ve evolved musically.
Smartpunk Records: Keeping Vinyl Culture Alive
A crucial player in this reissue is Smartpunk Records, a label dedicated to bringing iconic albums back to life on vinyl. Since forming their record label in 2016, Smartpunk has reissued beloved albums from bands like Less Than Jake, Set Your Goals, and The Swellers, while also working with new talent in the punk and emo scenes. By partnering with Roses Are Red for this special Conversations reissue, Smartpunk continues to support the vinyl revival, ensuring that influential albums remain accessible to fans.
Smartpunk’s passion for vinyl and dedication to the scene makes them the perfect partner for this anniversary release. Their commitment to preserving musical history while fostering new talent has cemented their place as a label that truly understands the importance of music in people’s lives.
Conclusion
As Conversations turns 20, Roses Are Red’s decision to mark the occasion with a vinyl reissue and reunion show speaks volumes about the album’s lasting significance. Fans old and new can experience the album like never before, while also looking forward to the future of a band that continues to evolve. With new music, special performances, and an ever-growing legacy, Roses Are Red is proving that some albums—and bands—are truly timeless.
