Shut Your Mouth and Open Your Eyes was released in 1997 on Nitro records and starts off with probably my favourite of all of AFI's first tracks, Keeping Out of Direct Sunlight (an introduction). KOoDS serves as both an efficient introduction and somewhat of a distinguishing of AFI and their fans from the sheep of the world. Most of this album seems to be a battle of some sort against both someone our narrator trusted and internal turmoil. The sixth track, Third Season, is almost threatening in its ambiguity. Interpret it as you will. Personally, I see it as a warning that when the narrator (presumably Davey, but I could be wrong...) chooses to rise up against the chains that bind him (or her) it will take everyone by surprise and the narrator will take control. Lower Your Head And Take It In The Body, reiterates this same statement and illustrates a desire to 'break out on my own' Track 9, The New Patron Saints And Angels acknowledges someone whom the nattator looks up to and encourages this individual to keep going. In the very next track and the one following, Three Seconds Notice and Salt For Your Wounds respectively, snap back at whomever the figure the narrator was held in bondage by, and here it is revealed that this person was some sort of significant other. Who can't relate to that? Today's Lesson, a cover of a Filth song, is appropriately placed after the afforementioned anthems of detachment. The lyrics will prove a suitable support of my comment. Unfortunately, this 28 minute assault on your ears (not meant negatively, but that's really what this album is) ends on a bitterly negative note with The Devil Loves You and Triple Zero. All in all, an excellent album, despite its lacking length. Quality over quantity, remember, this is punk rawk (haha). Enjoy.