You need to look at your life as just another resource. If you get a tomb early and don't have anything to cast with it, you have the option of playing it tapped. But it's that option of having the mana you need when you need it (for a small payment of 2 life) that makes the card worth it.
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I prefer Seething Song because turn one I get Norin out, turn two I can Rite of Flame into Seething Song into Confusion in the Ranks. I don't think I have lost a game when that is my opening hand.
One of my favorit walls is AEther Membrane. Really gives your oppenents a second thought when deciding to attack. Might wanna just sideboard them as they aren't as good against flicker orented creatures. I just skimmed the comments so sorry if it got mentioned.