Deserves higher than a 9.2 imo. Lion In a Coma has that annoying rubber band sound, making it the only real apparent flaw that I can think of. Amazing album. Agreed with AOTD comment. It will indeed be a contender.
Ben Gibbard is a brilliant song writer and has witten numerous albums since transatlanticism. Although i do think that transatlanticism is still currently the best Death Cab album, Plans has a brilliant array of songs that still has that great sound that Gibbard potraits.
Another point i would like to bring up is your comment on how you think that Death Cab songs are generically ‘sappy’. I disagree with your opinion a lot. There are may Death Cab songs that are NOT sappy in any way, for example ‘Sound of Settling’, ‘New Year’, ‘Crooked Teeth’, ‘No Sunlight’.
This was actually pretty interesting. The inclusion of the horns sold me. A really fun, up beat cover of a fantastic song. Like it’s been said, not a big Hold Steady fan, but I enjoy this.
I can’t believe people actually write critiques and “historical” analysis of something as arbitrary as a genre title for music. No one can see the historical significance, if any, of a handful of bands during a period of less than twenty years and their alleged influence on each other. This is why people can’t get over the sixties. If you attach historical significance to a titular singularity, then the artist or performer and the audience loses any immediate experience they may have of pure listening or performing or creating. The same reason my favorite “jazz” musicians never really say they play jazz. I suppose i’m just in agreement with nick up there, but really, I can’t stand the kind of insular diatribe so many bedroom critics like Jacob pass as journalism, fact or significant. If you think a band sucks, start your own damn band. If your band sucks, then shut the hell up.
If you’re not interested in what Jacob is saying, do what everyone else does and just move the fuck on. If you’re actually interested in how musicians write music then I advise you to at least consider the following points:
The reason people write about genres is that it’s a useful way of addressing musicians’ influence over one another. The strict term “genre” obviously doesn’t apply to the artists who have a broad spectrum of influences, but for those who work in a community, who influence each other, then it can make sense. It’s a fool who denies that musicians aren’t influenced by one another. Any sociologist will tell you that a genuine human singularity is extremely rare, existing only when a person has never had any contact with any other human: this is obviously not the case with Godspeed You!. We’re all a product of our influences. The term “genre” is just a way of dealing with musicians’ influences and you need to come to terms with that.
Secondly, just because someone describes something as a genre, doesn’t necessarily imply that it is historically important. There’s a difference between something being objectively important in music history, and something being interesting to a bunch of indviduals with a specialised interest. If you’re not interested in it, don’t read it. Come to terms with the fact that other people are interested in it. I don’t like the fact that people listen to Mariah Carey but I don’t spend hours of my life writing rants on the internet about it.
Thirdly, I totally agree with you that if you focus too much on the historicality of something then you are in danger of missing out on the actual experience of listening and enjoying music but – and it’s a big but – understanding something’s context can help you to enjoy something more. Jacob obviously loves Godspeed You! and he’s interested in their context. Your last two sentences don’t do anything to strengthen your argument. I too have a problem with non-musicians dissing music, especially when it’s obvious that they don’t understand it. I DON’T have a problem with people who love music wanting to talk about it.
These ghosts have started other bands and are expanding in their own directions off of the old music, incase you didnt know jacob. You just didnt seem to consider it in your writting thats all.
Is the point of Jacob’s piece that Godspeed was faced with only two options after Yanqui U.X.O.: one of which would have resulted in a relatively poor, or “lacking, and hollow” record necessarily attached to the electronic elements of more modern post rock, and the other, a record that would have been similarly disappointing in that the band wouldn’t have been capable of doing something significantly different from previous albums?
If this is so I feel like he is undermining the band. If you can get your hands on live recordings I think there is a good deal of evidence there that Godspeed was capable of deviating from the sound of their albums in truly novel and beautiful ways. This suggests to me that they could have very well put out more records that were new and exciting and still GODSPEED, without adapting any specific elements of the newer post-rock genres. I think “Outro” on Constellation’s Song of the Silent Land compilation is a decent example.
Like most live stuff that’s around prior to release it doesn’t fill me with confidence. I’m sure this will be decent though, I didn’t mind Sky Blue Sky and I doubt they could do worse than that.
[...] this album is an absolutely must in the world of undiscovered treats. Be sure to read Micah’s review of the album as well. – Matthew Tsai The Samuel Jackson Five – Easily Misunderstood (2005) This [...]
No. When april comes, it’ll probably will be set for December. Then when december comes, it’ll probably be set for March again. v.v
Don’t completely expect it for april. Partially expect it to be set again. There are 3 or more dates rumored. april 7, 27, and 28 are the ones I know of.
I don’t think we will see GY!BE together again unfortunately. I saw A Silver Mt. Zion in Cambridge in 2006. Someone in the crowd asked Efrim when GY!BE was getting back together. He said “When are you going to get back together with your ex-girlfriend? I hear she’s with a dentist now.”
I need to process the Bright Eyes review a bit. See, I fell in love with Bright Eyes a long, long time ago – way before the general public knew him. I grow weary of the Dylan comparisons because I don’t believe Dylan has, nor should be allowed, a stranglehold on singer/songwriters (Johnny Cash, Neil Young?). In fact, Dylan himself owes a great debt to Neil Diamond – the FIRST singer-songwriter who penned some wonderful work early in his career. Dylan, for me, is a poet. If I had to choose between singers, Conor wins hands down. Lyrically, Conor has matured in his work, not regressed – he’s not nearly as self-absorbed or self-pitying. On his solo album, Conor explores some new territory, but to expect him to be the next Dylan, then to act put off or disappointed when he’s not measuring up to a mythologically high standard is ridiculous. I’ve always seen Bright Eyes related much more closely to The Cure, Morrissey, Joy Division then to Bob Dylan. But if people hear Dylan in him, then it’s a compliment. I don’t think falling short of Dylan status is a failure. In addition, the idea that Dylan remained aloof, observing as a god from on high (as the reviewer writes) discounts Dylan’s active role in the political climate of his day. He was involved. Conor is also getting in on the conversation. Conor is a (relatively) young man recovering from alcoholism and drug abuse and is finally waking up to the world around him, rightfully sharing his observations. Dylan? Maybe not. But John Mayer and Jack Johnson? I put my money on Oberst. Ever hear any Commander Venus? Then, you can hear how far he’s come lyrically and musically.
I’d have to agree with much of David’s input. His lyrical scope has broadened by a huge margin since the Fevers And Mirrors days which has made for a decidedly less annoying approach to songwriting. The quivering has toned down and Oberst seems to perform with more conviction and belief in his work. The Moz/Joy Division/Cure point is also quite interesting. Had Bright Eyes remained anchored in the doom and gloom, it might be dead on. As for the Dylan parallels, they’re there, and they’re tenuous.
While Kraftwerk doesn’t exactly match my personal taste all that well, the line-up looks amazing with Elbow, Anthony, Wainwright and Lou Reed among my personal favourites. Too bad it’s during the Premier League off-season, otherwise I might have actually considered taking a trip for it if I could combine it with a visit to Sir Matt Busby Way!
I really enjoyed your reflections on Dylan’s journey. I think God and Jesus are still important for him but he seems to have done the ‘organised religion’ thing. It wasn’t all that long ago that he said Jesus is his hero and he has been playing’ Gotta Serve Sombody’ and ‘I Believe In You’ recently. Must still be with him somewhere.
This review made me pretty sad. I would love to see a new album. and I would very much like to see them play. As much as I like the direction post rock is headed, it’s sad to think that the genre has evolved so much just a few years that it has no place for one of it’s founding fathers.
thanks for this write-up! i am loving this CD though it took a few listens to get into it. i especially love that you translated some of the welsh, i have had ‘Lliwiau Llachar’ stuck in my head for days with no idea what it meant!
Interesting (yet dizzying) to read your interpretation of the new album. As probably the biggest non-English, non-Welsh fan of SFA (I’m a Norwegian), it’s somewhat satisfying to see that people who have a better understanding of the two languages suffer from the same confusion as I do. To me, you hit the nail on the head when you say “lyrics are often a kind of music in and of themselves”. Because even though I think it’s great when the furries come up with lines like “…another Cuban cigar crisis/ Honestly, do we need to know if he really came inside her mouth”, and such (and btw, I don’t think these kind of lyrics are as much political statements, as they are a comment to the focus of the media), SFA teaches me to appreciate the pure musical qualities, and leave whatever I don’t understand to imagination. To me, the mix of cryptic English and incomprehensible Welsh, creates a kind of international language of music.
Cheers guys. kjell, you’ve probably already heard them but on the official site you can download Bunf’s soundscapes, which give a real sense of just how broadminded their definition of “music” is. Maybe “music” isn’t quite the right word – “interesting sound”?
There’s a difference between a quality rock opera and a pretentious rock opera (that Razia’s Shadow trash). Good thing this is a quality rock opera. Good review
rick – i actually really enjoy it, but i think you have to listen to it as a narrative to do so. putting it on random would not work. the first time i listened through with the lyrics in front of me was almost as good as seeing a good show in the theatre, which i think is what they were aiming for. i guess the extent to which you actually enjoy it will depend on the extent to which you enjoy theatre stuff, or to which you want to transfer the theatre experience onto a cd.
sorry to keep you waiting, joe, we’d rather take our time and say it right than rush it out and get it wrong. and writing this, i’ve just noticed a minor typo…
This really is a good review at the core. Cut out a couple of the paragraphs that contain the backstory, the several repeated namedrop of other classic albums, and I think you’d have a fantastic review.
I don´t think we´ll ever see Godspeed together again too. I saw Silver Mt. Zion in NY once. A girl screamed godspeeeeeed twice, and Efrin said something like “There´s a crazy girl in the audience”. And it´s pretty bad, because GYBE is the best band ever!
indeed… m83 vs tv on the radio? wtf, sasquatch? and why are the decemberists invited? they should be banned from the gorge for their crappy prog rock! =(
I listened to it over 2 weeks and each time it kept getting better. I gave it the score I did because I honestly think that it is an important crossover record perhaps only bettered by Relationship of Command within this genre. I like that it is causing debate.
They should have stepped one track further on the record, and made Savior a single instead. My ability to judge chart-potential might be a bit distorted by taste, but it seems like a perfect single – Very similar to and with the same pop-appeal as the “heavier” tracks that My Chemical Romance became public property with.
Hero of War is good though, I won’t argue with that!
good review, and i think you nailed it as far as if they do end the band, these four albums show a great journey of Aaron, and hopefully the other band members as well.
another good review. i’ve loved grandaddy for a long time and this album definitely shows that jason is still going to be making great, creative music. hopefully he’ll tour.
Great review Micah, but as you already know, I would have the score at least a point lower. The final song on the record is the worst thing this band has ever written.
‘The Runaway’ sounds wonderful but I didn’t listen to the live tracks since I tend to stay away from those. Regardless, I adore this band. Most anticipated of 09.
This article was the impetus for my discovering and falling in love with American Water. This was an absolutely fantastic read and one of the best pieces of writing published on Sun on the Sand thus far. Thanks for making the rest of us look like hacks, Vinh.
Soon, someone will realize that there is still hope for godspeed. You know that they all have to miss that band in some way. but if its not meant to be, its not meant to be. But everyone is keeping there hopes up for godspeed, and i don’t see that as a bad thing at all. The way i look at it, is everyone should quit there bitching, listen to there old stuff and respect that, because its beauty. If you’re so concerned about keeping with a genre, start your own damn genre.
the fact that, like so many people, I find myself googling GYBE every so often makes me realise how I’d love to hear more. I arrived too late, never saw them play. Having listened to a lot of the bands that have come out of Godspeed You, I’ve been left wanting. The only album that I think has continued the curve is Sam Shalabi’s “Shalabi Effect”, an album I love.
I’m a long time fan of them. And as an old fan, I couldn’t disagree more about what you’ve said. Tell All Your Friends changed my life back then too, but those were another times. It was ages ago, man. I was a different person with different interests and more important than that, naive. The seasons changed and so did I. I do miss those times, but I think I’m a better person now. You see, I think that what most of the angry rabid TBS fans are failing to understand is that it isn’t just Tell All Your Friends you are missing. It’s what it was like back then. They cant write teenage poetry forever, man. I’ve listened all their albums back to back yesterday. My conclusion is that my favorite album of them is New Again. But let me explain first before you go all angry on me too: I honestly think that even though TAYF is an amazing and beautifully crafted album, it’s way overrated. Yeah it’s a really good album, but isn’t the second coming. It served me well during my more naive years. It’s one of my most beloved albums, the perfect soundtrack for the years back then. But New Again is the perfect soundtrack for the man I am right now. I’m proud of them for not going in the easier route. See, I think that a lot of people are wrong in comparing Brand New with TBS. Both Adam and Jesse are skilled songwriters and musicians in their own ways. But they aren’t going for the same things. I see TBS as a band that grew up, and that’s a good thing, in a world where bands like blink basically write teenage music when their almost in their fourties. I feel sorry for your disappointment, I can see why you’re disappointed but honestly, this is in my vision their best album to date. And there’re more people thinking this way too. Maybe will grow in you, maybe you will outgrow TBS. Who knows? Only time will tell. John Nolan is through with the past. Taking Back Sunday is through with the past. Why the fans can’t let it go?
i can agree with you on tayf, it holds a lot of nostalgia for me and i don’t think it’s as amazing as i once did but it will always be one of my favorite albums.
i think it should also be said that i don’t have a problem with progression. what i do have a problem with is such an obviously mainstream-oriented grasp at relevance. they might have changed, but i would not say that they have progressed.
to progress, you have to grow, not just change. progression implies a change for the better. what is better here? although their lyrics have never been brilliant, and they have never really written a song (just collections of one-liners), the lyrics on tayf were quite witty. what can you honestly say is a clever line here? (except for the chorus of everything must go, goddamn that rules.) i feel like the band knows they’ll never match the way they used to be and are instead trying to stay in the limelight. there is no magic here in my eyes, no talent.
thanks for not being a complete idiot and actually writing intelligent thoughts, by the way. it’s a lot more than i expect from most.
Well, and here we go disagreing again. It’s very hard for me to understand how some people aren’t perceiving how much they have progressed. And I mean this in every single part of their sound, from Adam’s vocals and lyrics to their musicianship. I can’t agree that writing cryptic and very personal lyrics (as Adam has been doing since the beginning and I think it’s perfected in New Again) about very complex subjects like separation, drug abuse, betrayal and longing and living up to the expectations of others as something mainstream ready. Yeah, they made it relatable and catchy as hell, but I can’t see this is a bad thing. Sink Into Me is probably one of the most catchiest songs in their whole carreer. I agree about Tell All Your Friends having really good one-liners, but I love a lot of new ones in this album. You see, I think it’s all about perspective. Actually my personal feelings about this album is that it isn’t for everyone, I find amazing people claiming they are trying to stay on the limelight by doing mainstream attempts. But let me explain that. This album is to people who have been through some shit in their lives. Their biggest fanbase are young teens and young men and women. Fine. But most of those people have being through some experiences that are related in the album. I dont think that many teenagers that enjoy TBS have gone through real drug abuse or even a more real and palatable situation: separation. Real separation. Not the kind that’s sang in Tell All Your Friends. Carpathia is the name of the little boat that saved some Titanic survivors back then. And it’s the name of one of one song that have some of the most personal lyrics that I’ve seen my whole life. I can go on here all day telling you how much this album is amazing and providing you some real strong points about it, but I’ve come to the realization that it’s useless. I’ve been through some shit in my life. I was living together with my ex-girlfriend and I’ve betrayed her. And it was and still is a very difficult situation. There’re people that identify themselves with Lacey. The Devil And God Are Raging Inside Me is mostly about how devastated he was by the whole deal he had with Sherri Dupree-Bemis. I see Jesse as an amazingly skilled songwriter and vocalist, but I can’t identify myself with him most of the times. There’re people who will find themselves devastaded for losing a girl, there’re people who will go through some things that I consider more intense. I’ve been through the both ends. I’ve been ditched and I’ve ditched some people. Adam is a guy that since Tell All Your Friends, I relate with. For bad or for good, some shit he went through and is singing about it now, are things that I really relate with. I don’t know nothing about your personal life. But what I can say is that people when they grow, they’ll be both heroes and villains. Good guys and bastards. I don’t see Adam as a guy who would apologize with his one last gasping breath for bleeding in someone else’s shirt anymore. Back then, maybe. And I could identify myself with that so good back then. But as he grew up, so did I. Right now lines like I’d like to see our roles reversed to watch you hang on every word and others in New Again are way more relatable to me. I don’t know if New Again was their right move. What I know is that it’s an honest to God move, and I think it’s amazing a band show progression in their lyrics and tapping in very personal and complex subjects and still be relatable for the major part of their fanbase. They would be doing a disservice for them and for the fans if they dumbed down their sound to fit the standards they’ve setted in the past. I’ll write my own review on this album in this weekend, maybe if you’re interested in see my specific thoughts about the album, I can hook you up.
I was thrilled to see Todd Kearns list The Thermals “Now We Can See” as number four of the year so far. It is not often that I see the Thermals acknowledged as I think they should be. Also, as someone who has certainly enjoyed a song or two by The War on Drugs in passing, I am intrigued by the review of Kurt Vile’s “God Is Saying This to You…” and am determined to at least give it a listen. In addition, although never having heard the band before, Blind Pilot’s re-release of 3 Rounds and A Sound sounds fantastic and I can’t wait to hear it.
Oh, and, I’m getting bored with seemingly everyone’s obsession with Animal Collective.
God Is Saying This To You… is a decent effort. Not all that similar to Wagonwheel Blues if that’s your point of reference. Personally, I prefer Granduciel over Vile as a frontman and lyricist.
I appreciate the feedback. I agree, it’s very self-indulgent, but at the same time, I hesitate to kill the backstory and exposition as it were, because of how deliberate it is: a self-conscious rambling to explain myself just as The Ugly Organ is the same thing for Kasher. It’s almost a “concept review” if you will, though the namedrops could be written out a bit.
I would hate that more than anything.. Saw them last week and were on top form as usual. Hoping the lyrics are okay with Vin doing them more so than Jesse
Only Joni Mitchell, The Band, and Neil deserved a spot of those 10. Atrocious list that further displays how worthless a publication Spin is. Oh, mall indie? Let’s put that junk in ahead of Leonard Cohen.
Can i just say mr.James, i appreciate your opinion but i am from gl;asgow and i love paolo nutini dearly, i listen to htis album religously away from religon, all of it, meaning that from my aspect all of his songs are great, i particularly disagree with you on growing up beside you, this is wa wonderful song about loving somone all your days and the tune, the tone of his voice and the passion he has for his music are all treflcted in this piece. So i suggest that you are more carefull on what you call to be “dissapointing,” because it could mean a lot to other people.
Great review, thank you! You should definately come over to Gothenburg and check them out live. I have seen them five times and their perfect blend of happiness and sadness brings me to tears. Every fucking time. How often does that happen?
I heard the festival this year was awesome…I definitely should have skipped my cousin’s wedding and went..haha! Thank god Fuse is airing it on TV on Sat. so I’ll at least feel like I was there: http://fuse.tv/tours/lollapalooza2009/index.html
[...] a lesbian scene in every irreverent teen comedy ever. Oh, and remember what was said in the Boxer review about token instrumentals on indie records? Guess what the band offers up with ‘Between An [...]
If you wanted the review to be taken more seriously you should have dug a deeper before flinging the ‘Belle & Sebastian’ mud. The cover art for ‘Memoirs’ is a homage to the 60′s Blue Note/Verve/Film Soundtrack covers typically found in that era. If it shares any simularities with any of Belle’s covers it’s probably because of a shared love of the same source material. Truth be told, many of Belle’s covers owe a particular degree of gratitude to Morrissey’s design sensibilities with ‘The Smiths’ so in the future, I’d be cautious about throwing around accusations of who’s stealing from whom if you’re not willing to connect A to B to C.
As irritated as you were from this review (and judging by the tone of many of your reviews on your site…you sound pretty darn irritated in general) like many things in life, you either like it or you don’t. Thankfully, around one person does the world not spin.
I’m well aware of the bearing soundtrack covers have had on Murdoch and company. That’s precisely why I find the artwork for Memoirs so annoying; B&S have employed this shtick for what, 15 years now?
“You either like it or you don’t”. I don’t and as a reviewer for this site, voiced my rationale. I fail to see the issue. As for my writing in general, I don’t make it a point to tackle solely artists I enjoy. Consequently, there will be albums that garner lower scores than ardent fans may deem appropriate. The average score I dole out sits at roughly 6.0 which isn’t particularly scathing anyway.
Regardless, I appreciate the feedback and am glad one of us enjoys the album.
Again, never posited that listeners were “crazy for soundtrack pop” but rather cinematic indie-pop. There’s a distinction to be made. Similar acts off the top of my head would be Club 8, The Owls, This Is Ivy League, Math And Physics Club, Au Revoir Simone, Tahiti 80, Saturday Looks Good To Me, etc.
Eddie, you were supposed to maintain their streak of sparkling wordplay centered around my name. Osama Vinh Laden?
Most of the bands you mention do not fall under that category. Do you mean Stereolab, The Hgh Llamas, Goldfrapp, Broadcast, Camera Obscura, Arling & Cameron?
And the one comment was right, B&S’s covers were more odes to Smiths LPs than the 60s movie soundtrack designs the postmarks seem to be going for.
While the record isn’t my fave, it’s definitely not bland.
No, I don’t. Stereolab’s music isn’t brushed with the dainty melancholy pervading much of the indie-pop spectrum, The High Llamas’ arrangements are far more evocative, Goldfrapp is significantly sultrier than The Postmarks, and so on. Granted, Camera Obscura is close enough.
I’m not sure why I’m even responding to this seeing as “cinematic” is a qualifier with parameters firmly planted in individual perception. You’ll hear what you hear and likewise on my end.
i love the dandys. my friend is like in love with courtney taylor-taylor. i like pete holmstrom better. i think hes hotter. but im really glad about the blackbird deal. i was listening to welcome to the monkey house when i heard the news about michael jackson, and i was like ‘didn’t i just hear his name two songs ago??’ i didn’t actually know what blackbird was, but it’s cool now. =] GO THE DANDYS!!! xD
I don’t know what it is, but this review feels incredibly biased. Maybe it’s because you can tell you’re a fanboy, or maybe it’s the ridiculous 9.5 you gave it. I didn’t enjoy it at all(others may have) and it definitely shouldn’t be compared to any of the best albums of all time.
I gave this one a listen awhile back, and 9.5 is a bit much (For this site, maybe not for pitchfork). It’s definitely not for everyone. I’d say it’s in the 7-8 range, but now we’re just playing favorites.
One of my all time favorites, came out during that incredibly dismal winter I spent in Edmonton. The first winter after Bill’s death.
Funny thing is I met Bill during an even more dismal winter a couple of years previously at a ukrainian church that had been converted into a chinese restaurant which on this occasion was hosting the Bill Evans Trio. He was playing Suicide is Painless, the Theme form MASH. It was easy enough to feel his suffering…what was really strange was spending the next few years witnessing his exploration of that pain from the perspective of a young woman in love.
He showed me how to persist nonetheless, with one foot planted in the brumous melancholy and the other in cautious optimism.
You have not been paying attention? Believe it or not old foggies such as myself have been saying this for years. Successive governments east and west have been using dubious policies,FEAR,MORE FEAR, to make the easily led ,pliable more appathetic to everything that surrounds them. Since the end of world war 2, AMERICA and its bedfellows(underlings) have systematically stipped the citizens of the west any real say in what goes on. Yes you can vote for whoever you like but theres no choice, no real choice their all the same.The east is just another problem the US will bomb,steal and instate its puppet leader to the detrement of the indiginous people.Im glad something as simple as a song opened your eyes.I am 44 and was lucky enough to come from a family who take politics seriously,but still laidbacked to enjoy life.The revolution will come(not in my lifetime) eventually, people will wake up and be able live life their way not the goverments,the media or the banks.Those who take no interest in politics are destined to be governed by their inferiors.
I have been growing more and more aware of these same issues over the past year. Coincidentally the same year that RH has taken the Beatles place as my favorite band… Great read.
This guy is worth nothing without Morrissey so he may as well talk about it, it’s the only reason people are interested in hearing anything from his boring mouth.
“In the world of emotionally-tinged soft rock side projects, Anchor & Braille’s long awaited debut album has been the Chinese Democracy of the past few years as a release has been hinted at for at least two and a half years yet it didn’t come out until last month.”
Stop talking about Michael Jordan and write an informative review.
“After the fifth track, the release loses steam that is never recovered”
No mention of already home (arguably kanyes best work in a long time”, on to the next one, star is born with an outro by the upcoming freshman J.Cole who arguably has the best verse on the CD?, no mention of forever young? Re-dic-u-lous. Granted his lyricism had lost steam from reasonable doubt, but it is still better then most out there right now. Give me a break. His flow, albeit slower is still on point and the guest spots (besides Rihanna and Jeezy) are all AAA.
Did you even listen to the second half?
Now, don’t get me wrong. This isnt his best work, but its his best since the black album. (better production, better lyrics, better guest spots)
Reasonable doubt was a loooong time again. Move on. Stop focusing on the past and enjoy a solid album.
I agree – definitely one of the best videos of the year! Even though I’m from Montreal, this song really makes me feel like NYC is home! Great song about a great city, can’t wait ’til I’m back there.
hmm, i can’t figure out if this is a big joke or if Mr Dylan is taking this serious. I heard his rendition of ‘Here Comes Santa Claus’ and the only thing I can say is that it’s best kept away from small children whose whole christmas magic and dreams will end up in tears and fear should they hear it.
Only listened to the Christmas album once, some decent songs and some pretty poor renditions. Still bought it to support the cause. I would of loved to attend the party in this video though.
Hmmm…I like the sports comparison. Well done, but I must agree with JB.
The three songs you noted are singles (Empire State…being the latest) but out of the first 5 tracks, D.O.A, Run This… and ESOM all pale in comparison lyrically to Thank You and What We Talkin’ About. Already Home is most likely the best all around track on the album (Lyrically and production wise) and then, as mentioned, you have a great guest spot from Jeezy and the first “new” artist on Roc Nation, J. Cole (who is turning into one of hip hops best new forces…check out his mixtapes everyone!), and who can deny the back and forth banter on Haters?
To each their own, but with this album I find people were looking for flaws, when in my opinion the only real flaw was the hook for Reminder (its painful at best), and even that song is lyrically strong once you get thru the so so beat and annoying hook.
Id give it a solid 8/10 as I think it has tons of replay value, great production and a pissed off Jay Z on 95% of the tracks (even when hes doing the “club” songs, he goes hard with some great word play and metaphors…V vs M)
That was a dope review! Couldn’t of put it better myself… It is worth a listen but definately doesn’t live up to previous work. I haven’t seen any of your reviews before.. Someone put this guy on! Keep up the good work. I’ll be lookin out
[...] Girls’ is debatably the band’s crowning achievement and one of this year’s best tracks. Some have drawn comparisons to past classics, like The Beach Boys’ Pet Sounds. I’m not sure [...]
One of the most perfect albums that I know of. Although my favorite RH album is usually the one that I’m listening to at the moment… Great pick/article, and I would definitely suggest watching “Reckoner” From The Basement. Flawless and kind of funny for the reason you stated.
“Then there’s ‘Reckoner’, which I always imagine being performed with someone spending the whole song concentrating very hard so as not to mess up the rhythm of the tambourine.”
I think my favourite moment on In Rainbows is ‘All I Need’. When they played that at Lollapalooza it was one of those chills down the spine moments. Nice write up Krista.
[...] honest here: I had little to no interest in hearing this album until I read Ben’s review. After hearing comparisons to Pet Sounds, I knew I had to check this out. Meshing [...]
I enjoyed reading this – I feel their ‘revolutionary’ release methods eclipsed the music in most people’s attention spans upon its release, though. Glad to see some appreciation.
This is my least-listened-to BFF album, simply because it’s too intense. It’s an experience. It’s perfect. Glad to see it in the spotlight, honestly, because not enough people give credit to BFF.
Cat Power? Let me guess, one of your editors got married and a Cat Power song was “their song”. Please. It’s good, but one of the best 10 album of the decade? It’s a decently written album that sounds like Sheryl Crow recording with a budget 4-track and a dusty cassette.
After reading this I really need to listen to ‘You And Whose Army?’. I love that song and haven’t heard it in a while. Very enjoyable read, cheers Max.
Fantastic review Micah. Being an Illinoisan myself, I feel that this album really does an incredible job of explaining my home state and bridges the gap between the urban north and more rural south. One of my favorites from this decade.
Given how many people we had contributing to this list, I think it’s pretty impressive to have Boxer at #3. I don’t believe any notable site has it higher than us.
And this really is your best work Rick, these articles just keep getting better and better.
To be perfectly honest, I’m not a fan of the opening paragraph or two, but once I get past that less than captivating start, the rest is excellent. There are some great lines in this. Good job.
That’s really too bad, other than that it was a good list although one could raise questions as to how certain albums, like Transatlanticism (a good but elementary album), could be on the list and Moon (the dark, complex, sometimes difficult but ultimately life-affirming magnum opus of Isaac Brock) did not
I really liked the Apologies to the Queen Mary review as well as For Emma
This is STILL going on? It’s like, what, the middle of January already? Just post them all at once. No one really reads these anymore, especially when they’re all the same albums everyone else is slapping on their EOTY lists.
The write-up for #1 is a fair deal longer than your average paragraph so we decided to run it as a standalone piece and 25-2 looked funny for some reason. Besides, the year-end content will be through by Wednesday so it’s not some endless wait for regular publishing to return.
Wow, MPP at #2? That’s a shocker. I guess there’s only one album that I can think of that isn’t on here. If said album isn’t on this list, I will be shocked.
Sounds like an awesome show, I’m so sorry I was out of town and missed it! Mostly for the awesome adventures had by all. Haha. Let me know when they’re playing next, I for suuure want to see this action going down.
Man, Chris and Dorian are some of the best guys in this city. They aren’t assholes, burnouts or misogynists. They’re post-irony. They are also kinda sexy in a weird way but don’t tell anyone.
Yeah! I agree with Joshua Moore. Piss off, you Pitchfork wannabies. Also, I like Bono a lot. Why is there no Bono on this site? I guess if girls in carigans liked Bono, you guys would be all up in to him. He’s saving the planet, man!
Go do something to yourself that you find unpleasant!
I really like this song. I wonder if Albarn made Gruff Rhys apologize for selling the Mogwai ‘Blur:Are Shite’ t-shirts at SFA gigs before letting him get involved here?
How did it take Sibylle Baier’s album so long to be released? Three and a half decades seems like quite a long time. Colour Green is a pretty album, though. I’ll have to pick it up when I get the chance.
Baier’s recordings were never meant to see the light of day, really, so they stayed locked up somewhere — presumably in her house. Her son Robby was at the root of Colour Green’s belated release, putting the CD together and presenting copies to family members. He also offered one to J Mascis (of Dino Jr.) who in turn relayed it to Orange Twin Records and the rest is history.
Brian’s been on a pretty big Sun Araw kick as of late, huh? Guess I should give that album a shot. I’m also curious about Pearls Before Swine, just because I recognize that cover from art history. Hieronymus Bosch for the win. We spent a lot of time on Garden of Delights just the other week.
I saw them at Lollapalooza a couple of years ago and I thought they more than justified being headliners with their performance. You can find many faults with some of their albums but, in the right setting, live they are pretty damn good.
I agree completely, Matt. That Lolla set was great. I haven’t listened to the new album through, but I enjoyed the others quite a bit, though Origins is my favorite by far.
So if the tape came with a mission statement you’d get it? Suggestion: turn your ego off for a minute and just decide if you like it or not. Game over. I can take a dump and it doesn’t matter what my intentions were – it’s still a dump. Same goes for a meal. It might add to the experience of being around the dump/eating the meal, but it doesn’t change it.
[...] of my peers at the Tiny Pitch Stones, I immediately think of my initial effort for Sun On The Sand. My article regarding Cursive’s The Ugly Organ was less a breakdown of the album, its concept, or how it [...]
I think you misunderstand what I was saying here. I do like the album but think that it ultimately lacks the focus to make it something great, and I do say that in the review. The point of the banter about intentions is to give the album some historical perspective in the context of both the genre and the artist’s career. Is this going to stand as a paradigm to the artist’s works down the road? Are we looking at a few rough patches from someone starting out that will ultimately get ironed out? Will this supposed boldness have any effect on how others in the genre will approach their music? Is this daft, or is it just plain amateurish? I try to address these kinds of questions in my reviews to have my readers understand it more, not to figure out if I like it more myself. At any rate, I always appreciate the constructive criticism and will take it to heart.
I’d say the lyrics are quite a bit above average. Especially on ‘Airplanes’, which deals with the death of his grandfather, I find the lyrics to be mesmerising.
I am typically hesitant of stating things in absolute terms, but this is probably one of the most sincere and engaging music reviews I have ever read. So thanks, Brian. You’re a fantastic writer, and keep it up.
Hey, I just watched the movie Free Willy 4 and heard a song and I’m pretty sure the name of it is Roof tops. It goes like this……”Over the rooftops and over the city I’m callin’ your name. When no one else to turn to, it’s eaisier to stay in a state of dreamin’.” And so on. Do you know where I can get this song, I-tunes, youtube, hulu, anywhere?
I’ve only witnessed the Bradford Cox experience in its pre-Logos Atlas Sound form, but I’ve heard plenty of great things about Deerhunter’s live show. Needless to say, I’m a bit jealous.
WOW! Dee- I am incredibly impressed. Such a terrific interview. And I had no idea that Morgan has such an astounding background…I always just loved her as a sweet, classy, terrific drummer whose company and conversation I thoroughly have enjoyed. Thank you s much for educating me on lovely M’s talents and history. GOD! I really miss her. Do you think she would be offended if we kidnapped her and spoiled her rotten as our guest? LOL! Meanwhile, Sheila and I will keep out eyes and ears open for any news of a Andy Kim gig anywhere near us, both now, in NY, and later when we are in Vegas.
putting it out on cd was absolute rubbish. looking forward to your steve mason ‘boys outside’ review (it’s going to happen right?) from a distant european land emilio
I had Ronnie Dio sign a styrofoam cup in the late 60′s after a small town Saturday Night Dance complete with smashing a guitar on stage. Ronnie Dio and the Profits….WOW.
Really? As weak as their output has been this past decade, I still see this as a pretty big downgrade. Classic U2 is the bomb, and from what I hear they’re still excellent live. (Not that this really affects me…lol.)
I think the first half of the album is brilliant but it just loses momentum after ‘I can Change’ and never really fully recovers, hence the disappointment.
Nice one Jeremy. I’m assuming you are familiar with the second Simple Kid album aswell which I consider to be his best work. A very underrated musician.
I like the way this made reference to current artists to help people understand the points in perspective. For those who may not have been around or who were too young to appreciate the impact that was made @ the time, this shows just how Duran Duran changed the face of the music landscape.
Added Denver and I bought my ticket today. Can’t wait to see this legend in action. Expecting a great performance and I know he will deliver. If you haven’t already got tickets I would get them now.
pretty much agreed. kind of difficult to follow-up ‘the satanic satanist’ though (which is one of the best listens during a london underground journey…imho).
Ah, yeah. Shame he only came into his own on his final quality record. You can still hear traces of overly polished Ben (‘O Plebeu’) but all in all, it’s delightfully funky.
In an interview with Pitchfork, Berglund said that nothing official has been decided with the future of TTA, and that they haven’t actually broken up. If I had to put money on it, I’d bet that they’ll end up recording together in the future.
Awesome. Nice article. I wish i could have made it but had to work a street fest in the city that weekend. All Good has been on my list for years… maybe next?! Yonder!
UIC Pavilion in Chicago is one of the worst venues I’ve been to. Absolutely no atmosphere in that place (probably not helped by the fact they don’t sell any alcohol). I was looking forward to this until now.
Sapphie is one of my favorite folk albums and I’ve always thought it never got much attention, but yeah, this is pretty bad. But at least he’s doing something new
I’m glad you mentioned Sapphie as it captures Youngs at his finest — the type of songwriter who packs a punch by seemingly doing very little. Ultrahits, on the other hand, is the complete inverse situation and a bit of a drag aside from the opening 3 cuts.
I suppose that depends on what you’re looking for out of Youngs’ music. The aforementioned Sapphie is slow and sepulchral, a brilliant ode to his late pet Alsatian. For his slightly more experimental side, I’d recommend River Through Howling Sky or The Naive Shaman. For a streamlined version of Youngs’ elemental, drawn out folk, try Autumn Response.
What drove me nuts were the constant (possibly, but not definitely, sarcastic) references to the evils of technology (i.e. ‘the Message’). Technology has been VERY kind to M.I.A.! ‘Born Free’ was, for me, the only standout track – and even then, the music video nearly killed it.
I’ve never been one for brevity. It’s worth listening to. It’s not, yeesh, it’s not a “bad album.” If you’re a Kasher fan, you should own this. I will continue to spin the hell out of it.
Lovely article. Full of intelligence and it takes an interesting perspective on The Seeds place in the musical canon. So many times writers view a band in a vacuum and tend to ignore what contemporary sounds could be influencing them. Mr. Kearns did a great job acknowledging the context during which this song was released. He has a real knack for describing the sound of music in a way that isn’t too abstract or as a way to show how clever the writer is at turning a phase. I would love to see another article by Mr. Kearns about garage rock.
Brandi is one of the most amazing artists ever. She’s also one of the most amazing persons ive ever had the blessing to communicate with. I can’t wait to hear this album. Her last album “swim” was a masterpiece! Its under the name Emma Burgess though. Isuggest everybody should check it out. Its incredible this woman doesn’t have a major label record deal. If you have the chance to see her live, do it, you wont regret it. :)
wow, what the heck are you smoking? To say this album’s sonic traits resemble in any way the popcorn-happiness of CCM’s biggest hits shows you either didn’t listen to the album or you don’t have a single inkling of a grasp on the mechanics of sound. The subdued vocals are an aquired taste- those who like them on this album say it’s like reading a book- the words do the talking, not the person. On the other hand people like you say it’s lifeless and dull- I understand both and don’t really have an opinion on it. But to call them rebels without a cause outside of upsetting conservative grandparents, based only on your INCORRECT interpretations of two songs on the album- that is completely absurd.
don’t care what anyone says really. just listen to “the man who stole a leopard’ if you want to know what duran duran are really about. this song alone is reminiscent of their best songs and early ’80′s period. this is the sound that got me into art and music at a whole other level when i was in 3rd grade! i used to draw and paint for hours with the Rio album playing on repeat. ahhh….those were the days. the fact that these guys could make music like this again is a little shocking. i guess some credit to mark ronson must be given for reconnecting dd with their more primal side.
journalism with an opinion is one thing, but when the journalist in question makes himself into the sole arbiter over whether or not a work of art has any value or not, journalism of this kind is shown for the sad thing it is: an arrogant celebration of the journalist himself. obviously i’m a fan of Who Can Know It?, but your negative review, in and of itself, doesn’t bother me as much as your self-satisfied dismissal of any album (and band) that you seem to, forgive me, not understand in the slightest. comparing the record to michael w. smith rather than say, Flaming Lips and David Bazan, makes it easier to call it cheesy. saying the instrumentation is lifeless instead of pointing out that it’s literally several steps more complicated than any previous Showbread record makes it easier to say they didn’t know what they were doing. i can understand the “deadpan” vocal delivery isn’t for everyone, myself included, but you honestly can decide conclusively (and tell the internet) they have no passion based on your interpretation of a vocal delivery?
why do readers continue to dignify and accept this type of sad egomania instead of demanding these critics get off their little laptops and create something themselves so that some stranger with a blog can dismantle it piece by piece and explain to you why it fails, why it doesn’t matter, why THEY know better.
i’d suggest doing more research than reading a wikipedia page, learning some humility and making something yourself. then maybe write something with a palpable understanding that you are but one in a sea of opinions, not judge and jury over the value of something you may not even understand.
everyone else, i suggest we stop reading this kind of thing… it’s only because we keep looking that they keep it up.
this album is musically amazing, and full of hooks, and joy. Joy isn’t equal to happiness, it’s deeper than that.They have joy in knowing Jesus. And He is their cause.
You’ve completely missed the point of the album. The entire thing concentrates less in instrumentation to get across the critical lyrical points. I say this knowing full well that you’ve completely misinterpreted those as well. Apparently you have failed to see the beauty in this album, and for that, I apologize.
The somewhat rare practice of collaborative criticism notwithstanding, reviews are by their very nature reflective of one writer’s perspective — thereby presenting the author as a “sole arbiter”. I’m not entirely sure how you would suggest separating this notion from “journalism with an opinion”. The two tread hand in hand, seeing as every review acts as the vehicle for a single writer’s thoughts on the value of a work. If you have qualms with this framework, you have qualms with rock criticism as a whole, which then begs the question: why are you up in arms over this particular piece?
It’s unfortunate that you feel this review is arrogant, but it’s more so odd since you follow up said accusation by claiming the author doesn’t “understand” the album as though there’s one definitive thread he can cling to and any other vantage point is incorrect. It’s an awfully dismissive lens from which to view music. Then you crank up the very arrogance you’re tried to brand Tim with by ever-so-kindly suggesting he should conduct more research prior to writing, implying that your knowledge on this matter trumps his. The kettle is unimpressed.
If Tim feels the instrumentation is lifeless, why is he not entitled to express this notion? How would picking up an instrument, penning shitty songs, and having them critiqued — which any sensible musician would accept — validate his perspective? Moreover, why is he currently wrong? Wouldn’t the presence/absence of passion be chalked up to one’s personal experience with the music rather than non-existing set-in-stone traits? Tim didn’t pick up any passion when he listened, so he relayed his disappointment. How on earth is that haughty? Furthermore, how does that, in any capacity, denote that Tim isn’t aware his opinion is just that? “You are but one in a sea of opinions.” Tim agrees, I agree, every staffer here agrees. And yet, you’re of the view that he doesn’t.
The publication is Music Week (hence the “Music Week” on the header of the screenshot), a trade magazine in the UK. It’s similar to Billboard over here…mostly industry and chart info. So there’s some credibility there but nothing substantial for now.
It certainly had moments that grabbed me. Overall, however, it just fell flat. I’ve got nothing against pop melodies, these just sounded like ones I’d heard before.
well done matteoJ…try and get your hands on their ‘live from london’ that was “released” a few days ago. the album is going to be very good. beady eye review coming up?
While I still see Noel as the more talented Gallagher brother, Liam has done an admirable job with his post-Oasis offering. Nice review, but it leaves me wishing that you could score a live interview at one of their US shows. Come on SotS, sort that out!
Would love to interview them but we will be too busy with our bono and jay z interviews at that time. The stars line up to talk to sun on the sand and we have to prioritize.
Matt, thanks for the reply, but I think you’re selling yourself short here. Liam/Beady Eye need to promote their album (especially in the US) and I’m sure many reviewers have written off the album as some Oasis ripoff and not critiqued it on it’s individual merits. Given your history of excellent reviews for SotS as well as a penchant for britpop (based on your ‘what we’re listening to’ contributions), I think you are well poised to interview the band. It can’t hurt to look into it – I for one would love to read the end result.
Love this album. Great review. Can really see you’ve given this album a listen, and not dismissed it like so many others have without giving it a chance. Be sure not to sell Andy and Gem short though, they will have written a lot of these songs too. The Roller I do believe is a Gem composition. I messaged you the other day Matt about a review of my bands EP, we’re a UK band heavily influenced by early Oasis, Manic Street Preachers and the like. Would be awesome if you could! http://opentofire.bandcamp.com/
I believe they all have writing credits on all the tracks, but from what I’ve read on it a few tracks have been credited to specific people more so. Liam (Beatles and Stones, For Anyone) Gem (The Roller) Andy (Millionaire, Standing On The Edge Of Noise).
I thought the premise was rather evident and buttressed throughout: the album is too caught up in Asobi Seksu’s previous identities to assume a current one.
Wow, I really like this album. There’s no doubt I think in anyone’s mind who are fans of this band that First Days Of Spring is an absolute masterpiece. But stood on it’s own merits and not the greatness that came before, I think it’s a good album.
The devastating and sad loss of Clarence Clemons will certainly change the sound of the E. Street Band. Bruce and Clarence worked together for nearly forty years and were such close friends. They really were blood brothers. I’m sure if Bruce is going to record new music or is already in the process, it’s going to be an emotional journey for him and the rest of the band. It will definitely be a dedication to “The Big Man”.
Cool! I didn’t even know about this interview until I was looking around their facebook page. I love Youth Sounds. I hope they come out with a full length album soon!
THANKS FOR YOUR OPINION ON THE EP. I KINDA AGREE WITH YOU, CONSIDERING I HAD NOTHING TO DO WITH THE REMIX SELECTIONS, I THINK THEY DON’T DO MY ORIG NOR EP ANY JUSTICE. I’VE HEARD BETTER TRACKS FROM THESE OTHER PRODUCERS. THIS IS ONE REASON WHY I’M NOT TRYING TO RELEASE ANYTHING ELSE WITHOUT HAVING SOME TYPE OF CONTROL OVER THE PROJECT. ALTHOUGH I APPRECIATE & IS A FAN OF ALLTHE PRODUCERS THAT PARTICIPATED IN THE PROJECT, I RATHER THE PROJECT STAYED ON HOLD UNTIL SOME BETTER REMIXES WHERE SUBMITTED. SO JUST STAYED TUNED IN TO DJ LIL’TAL AS I GET READY TO DROP SOME REAL HEAT IN THE HOUSE / GHETTO / BOOTY / CHICAGO JACK / WHATEVER STYLE U WANT GENRE’S. KEEP IN TUNE WITH ME AT http://WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/DJLILTAL http://WWW.TWITTER.COM/DJLILTAL http://WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/USER/DADDY1LONGSTROKE http://WWW.MYSPACE.COM/DJLILTAL1 DJLILTAL@GMAIL.COM
Hi RJ. You can listen to/download the EP at Wass’ bandcamp site here: http://julianwass.bandcamp.com/. There’s even a cassette version with gold foil tape!
Nice to see/hear Allen doing so well. I got to see him when he performed in Spokane with Logan Heftel. I was impressed then, I could tell he would do well. No offense to Logan, but I love Allen’s style!
Ben
@ 12:46 pm
Not listened to Spirit of Eden more than a few times. Perhaps now would be a good time to change that.
Tyler (Kid B)
@ 5:20 pm
Deserves higher than a 9.2 imo. Lion In a Coma has that annoying rubber band sound, making it the only real apparent flaw that I can think of. Amazing album. Agreed with AOTD comment. It will indeed be a contender.
Ben
@ 5:39 pm
I think you’re the only person who thought I didn’t go far enough with the praise.
Max
@ 5:46 pm
The album is somewhere around a 8.6-8.8 for me. Love the top and bottom half, the middle is just alright.
Max
@ 8:56 pm
There seems to be a lot of people obsessed with this band, are they worth listening to?
Ben
@ 9:37 pm
If you like trivial but hugely anthemic songs sung in thick Cockney accents yes. Otherwise no.
Max
@ 11:21 pm
Sounds like the band I’ve been waiting for all my life!
Ben
@ 2:10 pm
The Hold Steady have never really struck a chord with me. I like this because I really like the song but again it kind of wears on me.
Max
@ 7:41 pm
I’m not a fan of his vocals, but this isn’t a bad cover.
>:(
@ 11:56 pm
Ben Gibbard is a brilliant song writer and has witten numerous albums since transatlanticism. Although i do think that transatlanticism is still currently the best Death Cab album, Plans has a brilliant array of songs that still has that great sound that Gibbard potraits.
Another point i would like to bring up is your comment on how you think that Death Cab songs are generically ‘sappy’. I disagree with your opinion a lot. There are may Death Cab songs that are NOT sappy in any way, for example ‘Sound of Settling’, ‘New Year’, ‘Crooked Teeth’, ‘No Sunlight’.
Chris
@ 12:39 am
This was actually pretty interesting. The inclusion of the horns sold me. A really fun, up beat cover of a fantastic song. Like it’s been said, not a big Hold Steady fan, but I enjoy this.
Max
@ 3:44 am
“even manages to cut out the sappiness which so often plagues Death Cab records”
He never said anything about individual songs.
alldreamsfalldown
@ 3:12 pm
I have always been hoping and still will.
Eric
@ 6:46 pm
Eric…
If you truly want to learn more see this article…
John
@ 9:54 pm
Love THS and Bruce but this cover is straight up do not want.
John
@ 12:44 am
Good article.
Nick
@ 6:12 pm
I like to think that artists would not be influenced by the “scene”.
Hopefully that holds true for Godspeed, but I guess I’ll never know.
dumbledore
@ 10:51 pm
Stay tuned as Green Day desperately tries to stay relevent.
Matthew
@ 4:09 am
engaging read
Alyx
@ 4:00 pm
It’s a good thing that Max’s voice drowns out Conley’s. I think Conley’s voice is pretty much what turned me off to this project.
John
@ 3:10 pm
I like everything on here that I’ve heard, will check out the others.
cavemancyborg
@ 11:31 pm
I can’t believe people actually write critiques and “historical” analysis of something as arbitrary as a genre title for music. No one can see the historical significance, if any, of a handful of bands during a period of less than twenty years and their alleged influence on each other. This is why people can’t get over the sixties. If you attach historical significance to a titular singularity, then the artist or performer and the audience loses any immediate experience they may have of pure listening or performing or creating. The same reason my favorite “jazz” musicians never really say they play jazz. I suppose i’m just in agreement with nick up there, but really, I can’t stand the kind of insular diatribe so many bedroom critics like Jacob pass as journalism, fact or significant. If you think a band sucks, start your own damn band. If your band sucks, then shut the hell up.
Garreth
@ 12:04 pm
If you’re not interested in what Jacob is saying, do what everyone else does and just move the fuck on. If you’re actually interested in how musicians write music then I advise you to at least consider the following points:
The reason people write about genres is that it’s a useful way of addressing musicians’ influence over one another. The strict term “genre” obviously doesn’t apply to the artists who have a broad spectrum of influences, but for those who work in a community, who influence each other, then it can make sense. It’s a fool who denies that musicians aren’t influenced by one another. Any sociologist will tell you that a genuine human singularity is extremely rare, existing only when a person has never had any contact with any other human: this is obviously not the case with Godspeed You!. We’re all a product of our influences. The term “genre” is just a way of dealing with musicians’ influences and you need to come to terms with that.
Secondly, just because someone describes something as a genre, doesn’t necessarily imply that it is historically important. There’s a difference between something being objectively important in music history, and something being interesting to a bunch of indviduals with a specialised interest. If you’re not interested in it, don’t read it. Come to terms with the fact that other people are interested in it. I don’t like the fact that people listen to Mariah Carey but I don’t spend hours of my life writing rants on the internet about it.
Thirdly, I totally agree with you that if you focus too much on the historicality of something then you are in danger of missing out on the actual experience of listening and enjoying music but – and it’s a big but – understanding something’s context can help you to enjoy something more. Jacob obviously loves Godspeed You! and he’s interested in their context. Your last two sentences don’t do anything to strengthen your argument. I too have a problem with non-musicians dissing music, especially when it’s obvious that they don’t understand it. I DON’T have a problem with people who love music wanting to talk about it.
bleak and uncertain
@ 7:05 am
These ghosts have started other bands and are expanding in their own directions off of the old music, incase you didnt know jacob. You just didnt seem to consider it in your writting thats all.
Ben
@ 7:27 am
He is well aware of their current projects.
John
@ 2:07 pm
How to Save a Life is such a good song.
John
@ 5:29 pm
Wonderful review; I need this.
john
@ 8:42 pm
KURT COBAIN!!! MY GOD MY SAVOIR!!
John
@ 9:21 pm
I should really cut down on the size of my blurbs.
Matthew
@ 7:15 am
I thought the length was appropriate. And I like this feature.
Matthew
@ 7:17 am
Wow, great review.
Henry
@ 5:02 am
Is the point of Jacob’s piece that Godspeed was faced with only two options after Yanqui U.X.O.: one of which would have resulted in a relatively poor, or “lacking, and hollow” record necessarily attached to the electronic elements of more modern post rock, and the other, a record that would have been similarly disappointing in that the band wouldn’t have been capable of doing something significantly different from previous albums?
If this is so I feel like he is undermining the band. If you can get your hands on live recordings I think there is a good deal of evidence there that Godspeed was capable of deviating from the sound of their albums in truly novel and beautiful ways. This suggests to me that they could have very well put out more records that were new and exciting and still GODSPEED, without adapting any specific elements of the newer post-rock genres. I think “Outro” on Constellation’s Song of the Silent Land compilation is a decent example.
John
@ 9:09 pm
Looooved this review, especially the closing.
Dave
@ 4:47 pm
Very deserving, such great guys.
Matthew
@ 2:48 am
Great review. The album was decent, if not every bit generic
Chris Visser
@ 6:44 pm
Good band, expect a review of AIW,AIS from me soon.
Matthew
@ 12:28 am
Your writing continues to amaze me Vinh. Fabulous article, I wish I was as knowledgeable as you.
Ben
@ 8:09 am
Like most live stuff that’s around prior to release it doesn’t fill me with confidence. I’m sure this will be decent though, I didn’t mind Sky Blue Sky and I doubt they could do worse than that.
Max
@ 2:28 am
Thanks for reading! Expect a review of the new album in a little over a week.
Max
@ 2:30 am
I really like ‘One Wing’. If that’s the sound they are aiming for with the new album, I will be very happy.
Sun On The Sand » What We’re Listening To - Volume 4
@ 5:10 pm
[...] this album is an absolutely must in the world of undiscovered treats. Be sure to read Micah’s review of the album as well. – Matthew Tsai The Samuel Jackson Five – Easily Misunderstood (2005) This [...]
Keagan
@ 8:03 pm
I thought this album was pretty good. Nothing too groundbreaking but a great record.
Micah
@ 8:11 pm
Yeah, they said this in a blog on MySpace. My day got a bit worse.
Max
@ 8:43 pm
Sorry Micah, I had a feeling this might happen.
john
@ 7:18 am
thanks
al
@ 1:43 pm
No. When april comes, it’ll probably will be set for December. Then when december comes, it’ll probably be set for March again. v.v
Don’t completely expect it for april. Partially expect it to be set again. There are 3 or more dates rumored. april 7, 27, and 28 are the ones I know of.
Max
@ 1:20 am
27th is the UK release date
John
@ 10:44 pm
Hell of a review/album.
Micah
@ 3:06 am
WOOOHOOOOOOO
John
@ 9:10 pm
Too many albums fall into this trap. Good review.
Infatteuttery
@ 11:35 pm
Hello, I can’t understand how to add your blog in my rss reader
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Infatteuttery
@ 8:01 am
now in my rss reader)))
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Max
@ 3:38 pm
Thanks for adding us!
Matthew
@ 8:27 pm
i liked this album. catchy stuff.
logan5
@ 5:39 am
where oh where has gybe gone……….come back.
Kathy
@ 6:58 pm
Don’t forget to go to mtv and watch New Found Glory’s video for “Listen to your Friends” – http://www.mtv.com/videos/new-found-glory/349132/listen-to-your-friends.jhtml#artist=1011154
drew
@ 2:40 pm
joos discussing your esteem for AW:
http://dragcity.com/dcforums/viewtopic.php?t=682&sid=7dbd10175443a3be70cf052802ebb4c0
Vinh
@ 4:52 pm
They don’t seem to grasp the premise of the Moment In The Sun column. Oh well.
nj
@ 2:36 am
Spot on review.
Hallvardur Asgeirsson
@ 6:54 pm
I think it would be a great and exciting album.
Nate
@ 8:29 am
I don’t think we will see GY!BE together again unfortunately. I saw A Silver Mt. Zion in Cambridge in 2006. Someone in the crowd asked Efrim when GY!BE was getting back together. He said “When are you going to get back together with your ex-girlfriend? I hear she’s with a dentist now.”
John
@ 9:11 pm
Wonderful, wonderful review. One of SotS’ best.
Shannon
@ 6:03 pm
I am sure this album will get excellent reviews. I mean after all at his age, this is like riding a bicycle, he will defiantly end on a high note.
David Obney
@ 12:51 pm
I need to process the Bright Eyes review a bit. See, I fell in love with Bright Eyes a long, long time ago – way before the general public knew him. I grow weary of the Dylan comparisons because I don’t believe Dylan has, nor should be allowed, a stranglehold on singer/songwriters (Johnny Cash, Neil Young?). In fact, Dylan himself owes a great debt to Neil Diamond – the FIRST singer-songwriter who penned some wonderful work early in his career. Dylan, for me, is a poet. If I had to choose between singers, Conor wins hands down. Lyrically, Conor has matured in his work, not regressed – he’s not nearly as self-absorbed or self-pitying. On his solo album, Conor explores some new territory, but to expect him to be the next Dylan, then to act put off or disappointed when he’s not measuring up to a mythologically high standard is ridiculous. I’ve always seen Bright Eyes related much more closely to The Cure, Morrissey, Joy Division then to Bob Dylan. But if people hear Dylan in him, then it’s a compliment. I don’t think falling short of Dylan status is a failure. In addition, the idea that Dylan remained aloof, observing as a god from on high (as the reviewer writes) discounts Dylan’s active role in the political climate of his day. He was involved. Conor is also getting in on the conversation. Conor is a (relatively) young man recovering from alcoholism and drug abuse and is finally waking up to the world around him, rightfully sharing his observations. Dylan? Maybe not. But John Mayer and Jack Johnson? I put my money on Oberst. Ever hear any Commander Venus? Then, you can hear how far he’s come lyrically and musically.
Vinh
@ 3:54 pm
I’d have to agree with much of David’s input. His lyrical scope has broadened by a huge margin since the Fevers And Mirrors days which has made for a decidedly less annoying approach to songwriting. The quivering has toned down and Oberst seems to perform with more conviction and belief in his work. The Moz/Joy Division/Cure point is also quite interesting. Had Bright Eyes remained anchored in the doom and gloom, it might be dead on. As for the Dylan parallels, they’re there, and they’re tenuous.
Lars-Christian
@ 2:56 pm
While Kraftwerk doesn’t exactly match my personal taste all that well, the line-up looks amazing with Elbow, Anthony, Wainwright and Lou Reed among my personal favourites. Too bad it’s during the Premier League off-season, otherwise I might have actually considered taking a trip for it if I could combine it with a visit to Sir Matt Busby Way!
Jacob
@ 12:03 am
This was a fantastic read. Well done sir.
Singing Bear
@ 7:41 pm
I really enjoyed your reflections on Dylan’s journey. I think God and Jesus are still important for him but he seems to have done the ‘organised religion’ thing. It wasn’t all that long ago that he said Jesus is his hero and he has been playing’ Gotta Serve Sombody’ and ‘I Believe In You’ recently. Must still be with him somewhere.
Keep up the fine work.
Brandon
@ 4:52 am
This review made me pretty sad. I would love to see a new album. and I would very much like to see them play.
As much as I like the direction post rock is headed, it’s sad to think that the genre has evolved so much just a few years that it has no place for one of it’s founding fathers.
Sun On The Sand » Dragon Chinese Cocktail Horoscope Re-Released
@ 9:02 pm
[...] re-released today on SideCho Records. Pick it up in stores and don’t forget to check out our review of the [...]
Sherrrrrridan
@ 1:03 am
fantastic, i loved it. well done, sir.
cooltudor
@ 7:54 pm
nice info ty never miss it
Sun On The Sand » Mirah - (a)spera
@ 5:18 pm
[...] our second Retrospectacular installment, we examined the inextricable relationship between Bonnie “Prince” Billy and Americana. [...]
sarah
@ 10:30 pm
thanks for this write-up! i am loving this CD though it took a few listens to get into it. i especially love that you translated some of the welsh, i have had ‘Lliwiau Llachar’ stuck in my head for days with no idea what it meant!
kjell
@ 1:48 am
Interesting (yet dizzying) to read your interpretation of the new album. As probably the biggest non-English, non-Welsh fan of SFA (I’m a Norwegian), it’s somewhat satisfying to see that people who have a better understanding of the two languages suffer from the same confusion as I do. To me, you hit the nail on the head when you say “lyrics are often a kind of music in and of themselves”. Because even though I think it’s great when the furries come up with lines like “…another Cuban cigar crisis/ Honestly, do we need to know if he really came inside her mouth”, and such (and btw, I don’t think these kind of lyrics are as much political statements, as they are a comment to the focus of the media), SFA teaches me to appreciate the pure musical qualities, and leave whatever I don’t understand to imagination. To me, the mix of cryptic English and incomprehensible Welsh, creates a kind of international language of music.
Garreth
@ 10:37 pm
Cheers guys. kjell, you’ve probably already heard them but on the official site you can download Bunf’s soundscapes, which give a real sense of just how broadminded their definition of “music” is. Maybe “music” isn’t quite the right word – “interesting sound”?
tpb
@ 8:24 pm
all we are given sometimes is something to think about.
Matthew
@ 9:50 pm
There’s a difference between a quality rock opera and a pretentious rock opera (that Razia’s Shadow trash). Good thing this is a quality rock opera. Good review
Rick
@ 10:12 pm
Great review. This album is easy to respect and hard to enjoy, and this review provides a very good explanation of the score you gave it.
Tyler
@ 12:29 am
Old news…?
Max
@ 12:34 am
We never posted it as news, so we felt it was our duty to promote an upcoming Iron & Wine release.
Clayton
@ 5:29 pm
It’s old news, sure, but that doesn’t make me less excited about seeing it.
Joe
@ 3:52 pm
Nice review Vinh.
Joe
@ 3:53 pm
Interesting review, been waiting to see one from you guys for a few weeks. I am still not sure how i feel about it.
Vinh
@ 3:57 pm
Thanks.
Joe
@ 6:28 pm
Really like this album Vinh, nice review
Rick
@ 7:14 pm
Wow. Vinh gives an 8.2. Better listen to this one.
Garreth
@ 7:22 pm
rick – i actually really enjoy it, but i think you have to listen to it as a narrative to do so. putting it on random would not work. the first time i listened through with the lyrics in front of me was almost as good as seeing a good show in the theatre, which i think is what they were aiming for. i guess the extent to which you actually enjoy it will depend on the extent to which you enjoy theatre stuff, or to which you want to transfer the theatre experience onto a cd.
sorry to keep you waiting, joe, we’d rather take our time and say it right than rush it out and get it wrong. and writing this, i’ve just noticed a minor typo…
Garreth
@ 7:28 pm
i’ll second that rick, 8.2 from vinh is high praise indeed.
This Is War
@ 12:20 am
This really is a good review at the core. Cut out a couple of the paragraphs that contain the backstory, the several repeated namedrop of other classic albums, and I think you’d have a fantastic review.
no one
@ 7:10 pm
I don´t think we´ll ever see Godspeed together again too.
I saw Silver Mt. Zion in NY once. A girl screamed godspeeeeeed twice, and Efrin said something like “There´s a crazy girl in the audience”. And it´s pretty bad, because GYBE is the best band ever!
Rick
@ 6:03 pm
I’ll be checking this one out
Jacob
@ 6:31 pm
I’m also compelled to give them a listen.
platypusrex256
@ 11:32 pm
indeed… m83 vs tv on the radio? wtf, sasquatch? and why are the decemberists invited? they should be banned from the gorge for their crappy prog rock! =(
Rick
@ 4:04 am
Nice review, Vinh. I’ve been meaning to check this guy out for a while. Now seems like a good time.
jake abbey
@ 10:01 pm
hell yeah this article
Joe
@ 3:00 pm
Great read.
rj4 cables
@ 1:57 am
I’ve got to get into blogging.
John
@ 6:04 pm
hahaha. amazing interview. great job. i just love that front page picture.
kavkaz
@ 9:20 am
Man, that’s great…Thanks for providing such a good info………
Gianetta
@ 9:35 am
Wonderfull…
Brad
@ 10:30 pm
Conor should stay by himself, much better that way.
John
@ 10:42 am
nice piece, clearly well-thought out.
kim
@ 3:20 pm
i kept hoping that at the end of this article he was going to say that they had made another album and it was awesome
Nils
@ 4:40 pm
I know this is an old post, but i doubt that godspeed you black emperor was concerned with keeping up with the “genre” that they created.
Max
@ 1:37 am
While I may not agree with the score, this is a great review.
Matt
@ 1:47 am
I listened to it over 2 weeks and each time it kept getting better. I gave it the score I did because I honestly think that it is an important crossover record perhaps only bettered by Relationship of Command within this genre. I like that it is causing debate.
Max
@ 10:14 pm
Great review Vinh.
John
@ 8:16 pm
love that album cover.
john
@ 2:10 pm
lol avril. oh, clayton. <3
John
@ 8:30 pm
great interview. good band, too. probably the closest thing to a good local band that i have haha.
Joe
@ 2:03 pm
Nice review Matt, really like this album.
Lars-Christian
@ 1:24 pm
They should have stepped one track further on the record, and made Savior a single instead. My ability to judge chart-potential might be a bit distorted by taste, but it seems like a perfect single – Very similar to and with the same pop-appeal as the “heavier” tracks that My Chemical Romance became public property with.
Hero of War is good though, I won’t argue with that!
brad
@ 3:47 pm
good review, and i think you nailed it as far as if they do end the band, these four albums show a great journey of Aaron, and hopefully the other band members as well.
brad
@ 7:37 pm
another good review. i’ve loved grandaddy for a long time and this album definitely shows that jason is still going to be making great, creative music. hopefully he’ll tour.
Joe
@ 11:29 pm
The more i listen to it the more i can’t decide how i feel about it.
Max
@ 2:42 am
Great review Micah, but as you already know, I would have the score at least a point lower. The final song on the record is the worst thing this band has ever written.
Max
@ 5:55 am
I’d like to point out that it’s been almost six months since we first heard this album, and if anything, MPP sounds better than when I first heard it.
Joe
@ 5:54 pm
Nice review Vinh, gonna check this out.
John
@ 10:25 pm
Loved reading this. Very interesting.
Jacob
@ 9:33 pm
These songs sound incredibly promising.
Vinh
@ 10:08 pm
‘The Runaway’ sounds wonderful but I didn’t listen to the live tracks since I tend to stay away from those. Regardless, I adore this band. Most anticipated of 09.
Max
@ 10:57 pm
I can’t get over how old they look.
Rick
@ 7:10 pm
Entertaining review. Haha I like how I knew this was Vinh’s review after reading the little introduction thing on the home page.
Tyler
@ 3:34 am
One of my favorite records in a long time.
Brice
@ 8:33 pm
great analysis, from a die-hard folds fan this is top quality.
Max
@ 2:18 am
Good review Vinh
John
@ 11:01 am
sweet brag, micah. haha
Todd Kearns
@ 8:47 pm
This article was the impetus for my discovering and falling in love with American Water. This was an absolutely fantastic read and one of the best pieces of writing published on Sun on the Sand thus far. Thanks for making the rest of us look like hacks, Vinh.
Micah
@ 5:11 am
About damn time.
Simon Beaver
@ 10:06 am
I hear this is basically a cover of “Since You’ve Been Gone” by Kelly Clarkson. Is this true, Sun On The Sand team?
Shanal
@ 3:05 pm
Soon, someone will realize that there is still hope for godspeed. You know that they all have to miss that band in some way. but if its not meant to be, its not meant to be. But everyone is keeping there hopes up for godspeed, and i don’t see that as a bad thing at all. The way i look at it, is everyone should quit there bitching, listen to there old stuff and respect that, because its beauty. If you’re so concerned about keeping with a genre, start your own damn genre.
Max
@ 11:45 pm
Not going to lie Simon, that’s all I could hear when I listened to the song.
kashi
@ 7:17 am
the fact that, like so many people, I find myself googling GYBE every so often makes me realise how I’d love to hear more. I arrived too late, never saw them play.
Having listened to a lot of the bands that have come out of Godspeed You,
I’ve been left wanting.
The only album that I think has continued the curve is Sam Shalabi’s “Shalabi Effect”, an album I love.
rock-postrock-nupostrock blah blah blah
John
@ 2:11 pm
is this the song that features kanye west? lol irony
Simon Beaver
@ 8:53 am
I’m not surprised. I’ve always seen a distinct similarity between the look of these two magnificent artists.
Micah
@ 7:02 pm
Doesn’t feature Kanye, but it was produced by him.
John
@ 7:21 pm
I’m a long time fan of them. And as an old fan, I couldn’t disagree more about what you’ve said. Tell All Your Friends changed my life back then too, but those were another times. It was ages ago, man. I was a different person with different interests and more important than that, naive. The seasons changed and so did I. I do miss those times, but I think I’m a better person now. You see, I think that what most of the angry rabid TBS fans are failing to understand is that it isn’t just Tell All Your Friends you are missing. It’s what it was like back then. They cant write teenage poetry forever, man. I’ve listened all their albums back to back yesterday. My conclusion is that my favorite album of them is New Again. But let me explain first before you go all angry on me too: I honestly think that even though TAYF is an amazing and beautifully crafted album, it’s way overrated. Yeah it’s a really good album, but isn’t the second coming. It served me well during my more naive years. It’s one of my most beloved albums, the perfect soundtrack for the years back then. But New Again is the perfect soundtrack for the man I am right now. I’m proud of them for not going in the easier route. See, I think that a lot of people are wrong in comparing Brand New with TBS. Both Adam and Jesse are skilled songwriters and musicians in their own ways. But they aren’t going for the same things. I see TBS as a band that grew up, and that’s a good thing, in a world where bands like blink basically write teenage music when their almost in their fourties. I feel sorry for your disappointment, I can see why you’re disappointed but honestly, this is in my vision their best album to date. And there’re more people thinking this way too. Maybe will grow in you, maybe you will outgrow TBS. Who knows? Only time will tell. John Nolan is through with the past. Taking Back Sunday is through with the past. Why the fans can’t let it go?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AaJGPdXFUjg
John
@ 7:58 pm
i can agree with you on tayf, it holds a lot of nostalgia for me and i don’t think it’s as amazing as i once did but it will always be one of my favorite albums.
i think it should also be said that i don’t have a problem with progression. what i do have a problem with is such an obviously mainstream-oriented grasp at relevance. they might have changed, but i would not say that they have progressed.
to progress, you have to grow, not just change. progression implies a change for the better. what is better here? although their lyrics have never been brilliant, and they have never really written a song (just collections of one-liners), the lyrics on tayf were quite witty. what can you honestly say is a clever line here? (except for the chorus of everything must go, goddamn that rules.) i feel like the band knows they’ll never match the way they used to be and are instead trying to stay in the limelight. there is no magic here in my eyes, no talent.
thanks for not being a complete idiot and actually writing intelligent thoughts, by the way. it’s a lot more than i expect from most.
John
@ 9:33 pm
Well, and here we go disagreing again. It’s very hard for me to understand how some people aren’t perceiving how much they have progressed. And I mean this in every single part of their sound, from Adam’s vocals and lyrics to their musicianship. I can’t agree that writing cryptic and very personal lyrics (as Adam has been doing since the beginning and I think it’s perfected in New Again) about very complex subjects like separation, drug abuse, betrayal and longing and living up to the expectations of others as something mainstream ready. Yeah, they made it relatable and catchy as hell, but I can’t see this is a bad thing. Sink Into Me is probably one of the most catchiest songs in their whole carreer. I agree about Tell All Your Friends having really good one-liners, but I love a lot of new ones in this album. You see, I think it’s all about perspective. Actually my personal feelings about this album is that it isn’t for everyone, I find amazing people claiming they are trying to stay on the limelight by doing mainstream attempts. But let me explain that. This album is to people who have been through some shit in their lives. Their biggest fanbase are young teens and young men and women. Fine. But most of those people have being through some experiences that are related in the album. I dont think that many teenagers that enjoy TBS have gone through real drug abuse or even a more real and palatable situation: separation. Real separation. Not the kind that’s sang in Tell All Your Friends. Carpathia is the name of the little boat that saved some Titanic survivors back then. And it’s the name of one of one song that have some of the most personal lyrics that I’ve seen my whole life. I can go on here all day telling you how much this album is amazing and providing you some real strong points about it, but I’ve come to the realization that it’s useless. I’ve been through some shit in my life. I was living together with my ex-girlfriend and I’ve betrayed her. And it was and still is a very difficult situation. There’re people that identify themselves with Lacey. The Devil And God Are Raging Inside Me is mostly about how devastated he was by the whole deal he had with Sherri Dupree-Bemis. I see Jesse as an amazingly skilled songwriter and vocalist, but I can’t identify myself with him most of the times. There’re people who will find themselves devastaded for losing a girl, there’re people who will go through some things that I consider more intense. I’ve been through the both ends. I’ve been ditched and I’ve ditched some people. Adam is a guy that since Tell All Your Friends, I relate with. For bad or for good, some shit he went through and is singing about it now, are things that I really relate with. I don’t know nothing about your personal life. But what I can say is that people when they grow, they’ll be both heroes and villains. Good guys and bastards. I don’t see Adam as a guy who would apologize with his one last gasping breath for bleeding in someone else’s shirt anymore. Back then, maybe. And I could identify myself with that so good back then. But as he grew up, so did I. Right now lines like I’d like to see our roles reversed to watch you hang on every word and others in New Again are way more relatable to me. I don’t know if New Again was their right move. What I know is that it’s an honest to God move, and I think it’s amazing a band show progression in their lyrics and tapping in very personal and complex subjects and still be relatable for the major part of their fanbase. They would be doing a disservice for them and for the fans if they dumbed down their sound to fit the standards they’ve setted in the past. I’ll write my own review on this album in this weekend, maybe if you’re interested in see my specific thoughts about the album, I can hook you up.
Tyler
@ 11:46 pm
Well written review.
Tyler
@ 11:47 pm
1.4? Wow. Haven’t listened, but won’t after reading this. Never dug this band very much.
Paul
@ 9:05 am
I’m not sure I believe this tracklisting to be true
Max
@ 7:17 am
Neither do I Paul, neither do I…
Rick
@ 1:32 am
Wow. Great album here. Nice review.
SomeGuy
@ 8:39 pm
Todd is awesome, good stuff.
Erin
@ 11:08 pm
I was thrilled to see Todd Kearns list The Thermals “Now We Can See” as number four of the year so far. It is not often that I see the Thermals acknowledged as I think they should be.
Also, as someone who has certainly enjoyed a song or two by The War on Drugs in passing, I am intrigued by the review of Kurt Vile’s “God Is Saying This to You…” and am determined to at least give it a listen.
In addition, although never having heard the band before, Blind Pilot’s re-release of 3 Rounds and A Sound sounds fantastic and I can’t wait to hear it.
Oh, and, I’m getting bored with seemingly everyone’s obsession with Animal Collective.
Vinh
@ 3:52 am
As a writer here, I know the feeling Erin.
God Is Saying This To You… is a decent effort. Not all that similar to Wagonwheel Blues if that’s your point of reference. Personally, I prefer Granduciel over Vile as a frontman and lyricist.
Todd Kearns
@ 4:32 am
Thanks for leaving me a shoutout, Erin.
James
@ 11:37 am
Love this cd. Good review
Matt
@ 11:48 pm
Anyone else having Chappelle show flashbacks here?
Clayton
@ 12:20 am
Excellent, completely agree :)
Jacob
@ 6:21 pm
Oh my gosh I wish I could go to Europe.
Todd Kearns
@ 8:18 pm
I appreciate the feedback. I agree, it’s very self-indulgent, but at the same time, I hesitate to kill the backstory and exposition as it were, because of how deliberate it is: a self-conscious rambling to explain myself just as The Ugly Organ is the same thing for Kasher. It’s almost a “concept review” if you will, though the namedrops could be written out a bit.
Rick
@ 5:36 pm
Link needs to be fixed.
Max
@ 3:02 am
Link fixed, sorry about that.
Paul
@ 9:43 am
I would hate that more than anything.. Saw them last week and were on top form as usual. Hoping the lyrics are okay with Vin doing them more so than Jesse
RustyWaffle
@ 11:27 pm
Sweating bullets and spirit of radio!!! Awesomeness on drums.
Megan
@ 8:52 am
I must say I am disappointed by the Arcade Fire absence.
Vinh
@ 6:29 pm
Only Joni Mitchell, The Band, and Neil deserved a spot of those 10. Atrocious list that further displays how worthless a publication Spin is. Oh, mall indie? Let’s put that junk in ahead of Leonard Cohen.
mito
@ 3:51 pm
these guys are amazing, everyone i recomend taking a listen, it will blow you away.
Max
@ 5:16 am
I had no clue Mr Cohen was from Canada, that is a pretty shocking omission. Arcade Fire’s absence is a little puzzling as well.
I agree Vinh that a lot of those artists don’t belong on there, but I believe BSS is a little above the mall indie acts…
Matt
@ 6:04 pm
Thanks for the kind words. I try to have a couple of reviews posted each week.
Rick
@ 2:31 am
Terrible list, and I’m usually fairly forgiving with these. At least Neil Young is there.
sbeaver
@ 10:14 am
hahaha I love the Dandy Warhols
Matt
@ 2:45 am
Pretty much anything by Bowie in the 70′s is ace.
Paul
@ 11:35 am
Looking forward to this.
I enjoyed the EP’s, but they weren’t up to the high standards they usually set with their albums
Megan
@ 12:34 am
At least they’re ripping off a band other than Radiohead. /obligatory joke
John
@ 11:44 pm
haha
Paul
@ 8:59 am
Can’t wait to hear this
Chris
@ 1:38 pm
“Burning Bridges, Breaking Hearts” is not a new song. They played on the Funeral tour in 2004.
Liam
@ 12:19 pm
Can i just say mr.James, i appreciate your opinion but i am from gl;asgow and i love paolo nutini dearly, i listen to htis album religously away from religon, all of it, meaning that from my aspect all of his songs are great, i particularly disagree with you on growing up beside you, this is wa wonderful song about loving somone all your days and the tune, the tone of his voice and the passion he has for his music are all treflcted in this piece. So i suggest that you are more carefull on what you call to be “dissapointing,” because it could mean a lot to other people.
Liam.
paul
@ 1:04 pm
Muse have lost it
Max
@ 7:10 am
Looks like they have really lost their ability to write quality songs. Hope that I am wrong…
Christian Jansson
@ 11:06 am
Great review, thank you!
You should definately come over to Gothenburg and check them out live. I have seen them five times and their perfect blend of happiness and sadness brings me to tears. Every fucking time. How often does that happen?
Chris Visser
@ 12:24 pm
Actually, I’ll be using my personal account now:
twitter.com/chrisvisser.
w00t!
James
@ 4:49 pm
Great review. I really enjoy this album
blend77
@ 4:16 pm
Phil!
You rule! Such a great interview.
^_^
Tim (From NYC!!)
Andy
@ 2:34 am
Phil is amazing. One of my favorite people currently alive on this planet.
A&A
paul
@ 8:15 am
Excited for this album
Bill
@ 3:52 pm
I heard the festival this year was awesome…I definitely should have skipped my cousin’s wedding and went..haha! Thank god Fuse is airing it on TV on Sat. so I’ll at least feel like I was there: http://fuse.tv/tours/lollapalooza2009/index.html
sbeaver
@ 8:54 am
WOO! Simon Beaver requests more photos of Sufjan Stevens looking pensive and hot!
ben
@ 4:13 pm
beverly shoutout, haha
Rick
@ 6:56 pm
Great interview
John
@ 1:12 am
But Vinh, he was in Sunny Day Real Estate! =(
Sun On The Sand » Los Campesinos! – We Are Beautiful, We Are Doomed
@ 6:07 pm
[...] a lesbian scene in every irreverent teen comedy ever. Oh, and remember what was said in the Boxer review about token instrumentals on indie records? Guess what the band offers up with ‘Between An [...]
Vinh Chiesel
@ 6:22 pm
If you wanted the review to be taken more seriously you should have dug a deeper before flinging the ‘Belle & Sebastian’ mud. The cover art for ‘Memoirs’ is a homage to the 60′s Blue Note/Verve/Film Soundtrack covers typically found in that era. If it shares any simularities with any of Belle’s covers it’s probably because of a shared love of the same source material. Truth be told, many of Belle’s covers owe a particular degree of gratitude to Morrissey’s design sensibilities with ‘The Smiths’ so in the future, I’d be cautious about throwing around accusations of who’s stealing from whom if you’re not willing to connect A to B to C.
As irritated as you were from this review (and judging by the tone of many of your reviews on your site…you sound pretty darn irritated in general) like many things in life, you either like it or you don’t. Thankfully, around one person does the world not spin.
c’est la vie!
Vinh
@ 6:36 pm
I’m well aware of the bearing soundtrack covers have had on Murdoch and company. That’s precisely why I find the artwork for Memoirs so annoying; B&S have employed this shtick for what, 15 years now?
“You either like it or you don’t”. I don’t and as a reviewer for this site, voiced my rationale. I fail to see the issue. As for my writing in general, I don’t make it a point to tackle solely artists I enjoy. Consequently, there will be albums that garner lower scores than ardent fans may deem appropriate. The average score I dole out sits at roughly 6.0 which isn’t particularly scathing anyway.
Regardless, I appreciate the feedback and am glad one of us enjoys the album.
Vihn D. Kated
@ 9:20 pm
“Cinematic indi pop craze?” wow… Had no idea the kids were crazy for soundtrack pop… which bands are these?
Eddie Offord
@ 9:31 pm
What’s the expression- “Blogs are like opinions, everyone has one”??
Vinh
@ 10:04 pm
Again, never posited that listeners were “crazy for soundtrack pop” but rather cinematic indie-pop. There’s a distinction to be made. Similar acts off the top of my head would be Club 8, The Owls, This Is Ivy League, Math And Physics Club, Au Revoir Simone, Tahiti 80, Saturday Looks Good To Me, etc.
Eddie, you were supposed to maintain their streak of sparkling wordplay centered around my name. Osama Vinh Laden?
Vihn D. Loo
@ 1:24 am
Most of the bands you mention do not fall under that category. Do you mean Stereolab, The Hgh Llamas, Goldfrapp, Broadcast, Camera Obscura, Arling & Cameron?
And the one comment was right, B&S’s covers were more odes to Smiths LPs than the 60s movie soundtrack designs the postmarks seem to be going for.
While the record isn’t my fave, it’s definitely not bland.
Vinh
@ 2:58 am
No, I don’t. Stereolab’s music isn’t brushed with the dainty melancholy pervading much of the indie-pop spectrum, The High Llamas’ arrangements are far more evocative, Goldfrapp is significantly sultrier than The Postmarks, and so on. Granted, Camera Obscura is close enough.
I’m not sure why I’m even responding to this seeing as “cinematic” is a qualifier with parameters firmly planted in individual perception. You’ll hear what you hear and likewise on my end.
kg8r78
@ 11:11 pm
You have an inquisitive mind:)
John
@ 3:08 pm
In other, more important news, The Rolling Stones are still around. What the hell?
Tom
@ 9:40 pm
I’ve heard rumors of him playing some solo shows as well…
Max
@ 10:09 pm
They really need to call it a day, 67 year old men should not be going on tours…
Matt
@ 6:08 am
I think we could all come up with a different top 50. Norwegian Wood #9? Piss off.
sandra742
@ 2:10 pm
Hi! I was surfing and found your blog post… nice! I love your blog. :) Cheers! Sandra. R.
Dom
@ 10:59 pm
Nice first review man. You’re right, the album cover is quite misleading.
Sharyn Jones
@ 6:14 am
i love the dandys. my friend is like in love with courtney taylor-taylor. i like pete holmstrom better. i think hes hotter. but im really glad about the blackbird deal. i was listening to welcome to the monkey house when i heard the news about michael jackson, and i was like ‘didn’t i just hear his name two songs ago??’ i didn’t actually know what blackbird was, but it’s cool now. =]
GO THE DANDYS!!! xD
Paul
@ 8:00 am
So so good.
Max
@ 3:01 am
Good thing I’m going to see them on Sunday.
Dom
@ 9:52 pm
I don’t know what it is, but this review feels incredibly biased. Maybe it’s because you can tell you’re a fanboy, or maybe it’s the ridiculous 9.5 you gave it. I didn’t enjoy it at all(others may have) and it definitely shouldn’t be compared to any of the best albums of all time.
Max
@ 12:18 am
Never thought about giving this a listen, will have to do so.
dave
@ 9:52 pm
Max: Dont worry about the old rolling stones, baby. they tour first class and still kick most 20 somethings ass.
Brady
@ 1:22 pm
Upon first listen of the album…i feel this rating may be slightly low. This could be my album of the year.
Brady
@ 1:23 pm
Nice work Rick. This album is a dissapointment.
Brady
@ 1:25 pm
You’re a Nut! You’re Crazy in the Coconut! – The Avalanches
Brady
@ 1:25 pm
Very Impressed with this Review.
Max
@ 8:21 pm
Good song, really looking forward to hearing this album.
Max
@ 8:31 pm
Will have to give this a listen.
built to pwn
@ 9:23 pm
Seeing them tomorrow, can’t see this topping any of the really great stuff in their discography but it should be good.
Alec
@ 8:45 am
I gave this one a listen awhile back, and 9.5 is a bit much (For this site, maybe not for pitchfork). It’s definitely not for everyone. I’d say it’s in the 7-8 range, but now we’re just playing favorites.
laurie verchomin
@ 3:17 pm
One of my all time favorites, came out during that incredibly dismal winter I spent in Edmonton. The first winter after Bill’s death.
Funny thing is I met Bill during an even more dismal winter a couple of years previously at a ukrainian church that had been converted into a chinese restaurant which on this occasion was hosting the Bill Evans Trio. He was playing Suicide is Painless, the Theme form MASH. It was easy enough to feel his suffering…what was really strange was spending the next few years witnessing his exploration of that pain from the perspective of a young woman in love.
He showed me how to persist nonetheless, with one foot planted in the brumous melancholy and the other in cautious optimism.
Max
@ 5:57 am
Well done Todd.
scott
@ 11:16 am
You have not been paying attention? Believe it or not old foggies such as myself have been saying this for years. Successive governments east and west have been using dubious policies,FEAR,MORE FEAR, to make the easily led ,pliable more appathetic to everything that surrounds them. Since the end of world war 2, AMERICA and its bedfellows(underlings) have systematically stipped the citizens of the west any real say in what goes on. Yes you can vote for whoever you like but theres no choice, no real choice their all the same.The east is just another problem the US will bomb,steal and instate its puppet leader to the detrement of the indiginous people.Im glad something as simple as a song opened your eyes.I am 44 and was lucky enough to come from a family who take politics seriously,but still laidbacked to enjoy life.The revolution will come(not in my lifetime) eventually, people will wake up and be able live life their way not the goverments,the media or the banks.Those who take no interest in politics are destined to be governed by their inferiors.
Joe
@ 3:03 pm
Great article Todd, really well written
Cole
@ 3:16 pm
I have been growing more and more aware of these same issues over the past year. Coincidentally the same year that RH has taken the Beatles place as my favorite band…
Great read.
Cole
@ 7:08 pm
Joe… do you know what a deal is?
Joe
@ 8:26 pm
Haha, those are how the deals i make work. But if you can think of a decent trade off i’d be all ears
Max
@ 2:47 am
The band should change their name, this new album will erase any dignity the name “Weezer” had left.
Max
@ 4:53 pm
:facepalm: x1000
Paul
@ 10:34 am
This guy is worth nothing without Morrissey so he may as well talk about it, it’s the only reason people are interested in hearing anything from his boring mouth.
moe
@ 3:59 pm
Hell yeah! It’s true! be checking your i tunes baby!
Milli Vanilli
@ 4:48 am
Futures > Clarity
Rico Suave
@ 4:55 am
“In the world of emotionally-tinged soft rock side projects, Anchor & Braille’s long awaited debut album has been the Chinese Democracy of the past few years as a release has been hinted at for at least two and a half years yet it didn’t come out until last month.”
Fragment
Joe
@ 2:47 pm
I’ll be excited to see what this sounds like
bk
@ 3:35 am
Joe, who is this kid, who does he think he is tellin ME about Brand New
Joe
@ 3:40 am
You are a funny guy BK, i guess i’ll let this comment slide after that madden beat down i handed you today
JB
@ 4:15 am
Stop talking about Michael Jordan and write an informative review.
“After the fifth track, the release loses steam that is never recovered”
No mention of already home (arguably kanyes best work in a long time”, on to the next one, star is born with an outro by the upcoming freshman J.Cole who arguably has the best verse on the CD?, no mention of forever young? Re-dic-u-lous.
Granted his lyricism had lost steam from reasonable doubt, but it is still better then most out there right now. Give me a break. His flow, albeit slower is still on point and the guest spots (besides Rihanna and Jeezy) are all AAA.
Did you even listen to the second half?
Now, don’t get me wrong. This isnt his best work, but its his best since the black album. (better production, better lyrics, better guest spots)
Reasonable doubt was a loooong time again. Move on. Stop focusing on the past and enjoy a solid album.
Thomas Walsh
@ 5:48 am
Well that was very kind of you Matthew, thank you.
Thomas Walsh.x
Max
@ 10:05 pm
I’m currently spinning Pinkerton as well Joe. The emotional punch the album packs is almost enough to make me forget about Raditude.
DeMoor
@ 12:23 pm
I’m convinced of the hex, but that’s the difference between us.
Joe
@ 1:55 pm
Like this album a lot, would give it somewhere between 7.5-8
Max
@ 4:05 pm
Not gonna lie: this is quite good.
Rick
@ 4:16 pm
haha Thanks for reading, Adam.
Yeah, Joe. Hard album to criticise, and I’ve really been enjoying it the past couple weeks.
Sinoun
@ 5:44 pm
I agree – definitely one of the best videos of the year! Even though I’m from Montreal, this song really makes me feel like NYC is home! Great song about a great city, can’t wait ’til I’m back there.
Max
@ 3:08 pm
Excellent first review Shane. Never listened to any chillwave bands before, so I should probably give this a listen.
Rick
@ 6:32 pm
Nice first review, buddy.
Dom
@ 7:30 pm
Well done pal. I’ll have to check this out.
DeMoor
@ 5:06 pm
Hey thanks boys. Glad ya like it.
DeMoor
@ 5:07 pm
Haha you just made Devendra say “Uncle”.
Todd Kearns
@ 5:43 pm
For those unaware, this is the band formerly known as The Muslims.
Matt
@ 8:21 pm
hmm, i can’t figure out if this is a big joke or if Mr Dylan is taking this serious. I heard his rendition of ‘Here Comes Santa Claus’ and the only thing I can say is that it’s best kept away from small children whose whole christmas magic and dreams will end up in tears and fear should they hear it.
Joe
@ 8:37 pm
Only listened to the Christmas album once, some decent songs and some pretty poor renditions. Still bought it to support the cause. I would of loved to attend the party in this video though.
Max
@ 12:12 pm
You did me proud with At Dawn Vinh. Excellent job everyone.
Brian Riewer
@ 4:28 pm
Great blurb about the Glow Pt. 2, Rick. You and I both know it should be higher than 33.
Joe
@ 9:49 pm
Agreed, had it at 10 on my list
Max
@ 12:36 pm
Damn, I was hoping they wouldn’t be increasing the ticket prices. $250 is pretty steep…
Shane
@ 4:39 pm
I thought $250 was what it cost last year. $300 if you did the payment plan.
Max
@ 11:20 pm
Wasn’t it like $215 last year? Or was that for the pre-sale?
Shane
@ 4:41 pm
Nice work on Apologies Paul. Like the Oasis comparison, lol.
Rick
@ 5:26 pm
Nice job on this one, Krista.
Rick
@ 10:00 am
Thanks a lot, Brian. haha Yeah we know what’s up.
Primeau
@ 4:16 pm
Hmmm…I like the sports comparison. Well done, but I must agree with JB.
The three songs you noted are singles (Empire State…being the latest) but out of the first 5 tracks, D.O.A, Run This… and ESOM all pale in comparison lyrically to Thank You and What We Talkin’ About. Already Home is most likely the best all around track on the album (Lyrically and production wise) and then, as mentioned, you have a great guest spot from Jeezy and the first “new” artist on Roc Nation, J. Cole (who is turning into one of hip hops best new forces…check out his mixtapes everyone!), and who can deny the back and forth banter on Haters?
To each their own, but with this album I find people were looking for flaws, when in my opinion the only real flaw was the hook for Reminder (its painful at best), and even that song is lyrically strong once you get thru the so so beat and annoying hook.
Id give it a solid 8/10 as I think it has tons of replay value, great production and a pissed off Jay Z on 95% of the tracks (even when hes doing the “club” songs, he goes hard with some great word play and metaphors…V vs M)
Matthew James
@ 7:18 pm
NIce shout out. I love me some Queen.
Joe
@ 9:47 am
Really nice job on these.
Rick
@ 2:21 pm
Sweet.
Banks
@ 8:22 pm
That was a dope review! Couldn’t of put it better myself… It is worth a listen but definately doesn’t live up to previous work.
I haven’t seen any of your reviews before.. Someone put this guy on!
Keep up the good work. I’ll be lookin out
Peace
Sun On The Sand · Top Albums Of The Decade: 20–11
@ 9:32 pm
[...] Girls’ is debatably the band’s crowning achievement and one of this year’s best tracks. Some have drawn comparisons to past classics, like The Beach Boys’ Pet Sounds. I’m not sure [...]
Rick
@ 3:58 pm
Very nice take on The Shepherd’s Dog, Vinh. Was a great read.
Cole
@ 8:50 am
One of the most perfect albums that I know of. Although my favorite RH album is usually the one that I’m listening to at the moment… Great pick/article, and I would definitely suggest watching “Reckoner” From The Basement. Flawless and kind of funny for the reason you stated.
Rick
@ 10:25 am
Nice work, Krista. You provided a strikingly accurate description of the album.
Joe
@ 10:48 am
Well done, Krista. Great read.
Erin
@ 1:17 pm
“Then there’s ‘Reckoner’, which I always imagine being performed with someone spending the whole song concentrating very hard so as not to mess up the rhythm of the tambourine.”
Awesome.
Matt
@ 7:53 pm
I think my favourite moment on In Rainbows is ‘All I Need’. When they played that at Lollapalooza it was one of those chills down the spine moments.
Nice write up Krista.
Sun On The Sand · Top Albums Halfway Through 2009 (Part 1)
@ 8:50 pm
[...] honest here: I had little to no interest in hearing this album until I read Ben’s review. After hearing comparisons to Pet Sounds, I knew I had to check this out. Meshing [...]
Rick
@ 8:16 am
Shane delivers once again. Good job.
Evan
@ 12:13 pm
I enjoyed reading this – I feel their ‘revolutionary’ release methods eclipsed the music in most people’s attention spans upon its release, though. Glad to see some appreciation.
Brian Riewer
@ 12:26 pm
…And boom goes the dynamite.
Max
@ 12:32 pm
Well done Shane, one of the most intriguing albums I own.
Evan
@ 12:36 pm
This is my least-listened-to BFF album, simply because it’s too intense. It’s an experience. It’s perfect. Glad to see it in the spotlight, honestly, because not enough people give credit to BFF.
Max
@ 2:03 pm
Not going to believe it until we get a more reliable source than NME. At least Billboard has some credibility.
Evan
@ 2:51 pm
Could still be true.
Nonetheless, Arcade Fire in 2010 is confirmed. Rejoice.
Rick
@ 8:40 am
“And I can honestly say that For Emma, Forever Ago did the same for me.”
Well said, John.
Shane
@ 10:07 am
Very nice write-up for a great album. Great work John.
John
@ 5:33 am
Thanks for the kind words. =)
mike
@ 7:10 am
Solid review to a solid EP! He definately has turned me into a believer as well,
Lets hope the album doesnt dissapoint!
Banks
@ 2:50 am
Another dope critique by my main main B.B.
Keep it up! I see you!
Evan C.
@ 12:33 pm
I honestly believe Radiohead and Arcade Fire are the only ones on here who can touch this list.
Mark
@ 12:55 pm
Cat Power? Let me guess, one of your editors got married and a Cat Power song was “their song”. Please. It’s good, but one of the best 10 album of the decade? It’s a decently written album that sounds like Sheryl Crow recording with a budget 4-track and a dusty cassette.
Max
@ 1:04 pm
Well done Shane.
Max
@ 1:08 pm
You are aware this is not our list, right? Our decade coverage is here: http://sunonthesand.com/2009/top-albums-of-the-decade-50-41-2/
Max
@ 1:14 pm
And Evan I would disagree with you there, Stankonia and The Blueprint are two of the best hip hop albums of the decade in my book.
Matt
@ 8:08 pm
After reading this I really need to listen to ‘You And Whose Army?’. I love that song and haven’t heard it in a while. Very enjoyable read, cheers Max.
Brian Riewer
@ 8:16 am
Fantastic review Micah. Being an Illinoisan myself, I feel that this album really does an incredible job of explaining my home state and bridges the gap between the urban north and more rural south. One of my favorites from this decade.
Rick
@ 9:46 am
Good job, Micah. Was an enjoyable read.
Max
@ 12:16 pm
His voice sounds as good as ever.
Rick
@ 11:45 pm
Great, delightful write-up that complements the style of the album very nicely. Good job, Vinh.
Brian Riewer
@ 10:13 am
Too low?
Max
@ 11:14 pm
Really enjoyed this Matt, there is no end to my love of this album.
Evan C.
@ 8:54 am
One of my favorite albums. I really enjoyed reading this.
Joe
@ 9:42 pm
Should of been #1
Dom
@ 10:23 pm
Wow Rick, that was your best work yet.
You can almost smell the liquor on his breath as he sarcastically raises his “heavenly glasses to the heavens”
Couldn’t agree with you more.
Max
@ 10:56 pm
Given how many people we had contributing to this list, I think it’s pretty impressive to have Boxer at #3. I don’t believe any notable site has it higher than us.
And this really is your best work Rick, these articles just keep getting better and better.
Brian Riewer
@ 10:45 am
Bomb shit yo.
Adam
@ 2:12 pm
I think I’m getting teary…
I’m not crying. I got something in my eye…
Great job brother, one sweet piece of art.
Tim Hardie
@ 8:04 am
To be perfectly honest, I’m not a fan of the opening paragraph or two, but once I get past that less than captivating start, the rest is excellent. There are some great lines in this. Good job.
Shane
@ 9:51 am
Awesome write-up Matt. Fantastic album.
Andrea
@ 1:16 pm
Very captivating piece of writing…
I can’t even express how much I love this band.
Rick
@ 1:22 pm
Thanks for reading, guys.
Rick
@ 7:56 am
Nice job, Micah. Really enjoyed this one.
Joe
@ 6:58 pm
Had it at #2 myself, well done Micah.
Max
@ 10:51 pm
This is possibly the most difficult album on our list to write about, and you did an exceptional job with it.
Max
@ 11:54 pm
Absolutely fantastic Paul, an incredible piece of writing to cap off our coverage.
Micah Wimmer
@ 12:35 am
Thank you all for the kind words. They are much appreciated.
Evan C.
@ 8:30 am
I’ll be honest, after seeing Kid A at #2 yesterday, I was a little skeptical. But this is fantastic. Great piece of writing for an amazing album.
Rick
@ 12:15 pm
Good job, Paul.
Omari Newton
@ 7:18 am
Nice review as always P. Thanks for the warning.
Ben
@ 11:14 pm
Where is The Moon and Antarctica?
Paul
@ 5:47 am
Stay tuned for our ‘Honorable Mentions’, Ben, although I was sad to see it didn’t make it, too.
Max
@ 8:29 am
It was album number 51 I believe.
Ben
@ 10:28 am
That’s really too bad, other than that it was a good list although one could raise questions as to how certain albums, like Transatlanticism (a good but elementary album), could be on the list and Moon (the dark, complex, sometimes difficult but ultimately life-affirming magnum opus of Isaac Brock) did not
I really liked the Apologies to the Queen Mary review as well as For Emma
Max
@ 9:31 am
Just barely beat me to the punch Joe! But I was able to add their tour plans.
Brian Riewer
@ 2:31 pm
Oh shit. Now I have no excuse to skip P4k this year.
Brian Riewer
@ 3:10 pm
Tarot Sport should be higherrrrr….
John
@ 7:45 pm
This is STILL going on? It’s like, what, the middle of January already? Just post them all at once. No one really reads these anymore, especially when they’re all the same albums everyone else is slapping on their EOTY lists.
Vinh
@ 10:48 pm
The write-up for #1 is a fair deal longer than your average paragraph so we decided to run it as a standalone piece and 25-2 looked funny for some reason. Besides, the year-end content will be through by Wednesday so it’s not some endless wait for regular publishing to return.
Todd Kearns
@ 7:25 pm
I’m grabbing tickets to the March show. I saw them a year and a half ago and it was a darn good show. They’re solid.
Brian Riewer
@ 7:25 pm
I’m surprised what album is No. 1. Not that it doesn’t deserve it, just didn’t think it would end up there.
Dom
@ 11:34 pm
Wow, MPP at #2? That’s a shocker. I guess there’s only one album that I can think of that isn’t on here. If said album isn’t on this list, I will be shocked.
Evan
@ 8:00 am
It’s asinine blasphemy to call this better than Leonard Cohen.
Brian Riewer
@ 8:30 am
As asinine or blasphemous as calling “Never Better” the album of the decade?
Aaron
@ 1:29 pm
tl;dr
Vinh
@ 2:34 pm
Elaborate, Evan.
Todd Kearns
@ 5:28 pm
Evan, though I appreciate the read, didn’t you just discover music whose members weren’t dipped in neon last week?
Andrea
@ 6:33 pm
Good read, Todd. The album is gorgeous. I particularly like how you described it as a sort of “existential calamity” for Callahan.
Dom
@ 1:34 pm
Some great stuff on this list. Would have liked to see a review for a few of those.
ALLONE
@ 9:50 am
JUST CURIOUS DO YOU FOLKS REVIEW/FEATURE UNKNOWN ARTISTS? IF SO, HOW WOULD ONE PROCEED? THANKS AND SMOOTH SAILING
Vinh
@ 12:39 pm
We’ll gladly cover smaller artists if we dig what we hear. Send me or any of our staffers an email and we’ll set something up if you like.
Max
@ 12:46 pm
Sounds like a record I would enjoy, good review Paul.
Max
@ 10:49 pm
Brian’s going to be really confused when he reads this haha
Brian
@ 9:12 am
Oh Todd, you think about me while you’re at work? I’m touched.
John
@ 1:47 pm
Really cool feature guys.
Todd Kearns
@ 2:25 pm
They brought you up (explaining that you’re new, but not appearing on this thing). I just said “fuck you,” because, you know, fuck you and all.
In conclusion: no one thinks of you…ever.
Evan C.
@ 3:27 pm
Missoula is in Montana, not Missouri.
Brian
@ 6:20 pm
Oops, I posted it without really looking into it. It’s fixed now.
Megan
@ 9:09 pm
Awesome idea! How ever did you think of such a thing? Good read.
Joe
@ 9:23 am
Nice Review Paul. Liking this album a lot more than I thought I would
Paul
@ 1:39 pm
Thanks for the comments guys. I was impressed with the album, too.
Kat
@ 3:17 pm
Sounds like an awesome show, I’m so sorry I was out of town and missed it! Mostly for the awesome adventures had by all. Haha. Let me know when they’re playing next, I for suuure want to see this action going down.
Lola
@ 7:45 pm
Man, Chris and Dorian are some of the best guys in this city. They aren’t assholes, burnouts or misogynists. They’re post-irony. They are also kinda sexy in a weird way but don’t tell anyone.
Brad Buchanan
@ 8:32 pm
Great to see my favorite harpist getting some respect!
Speaking of Newsom, Roan Press’s “Visions of Joanna Newsom” book is now available for pre-ordering: http://www.roanpress.com/ourbooks.html
You can see the blurbs at http://www.roanpress.com/news.html
Max
@ 3:07 pm
Great review Rick, looking forward to giving this a listen.
Joshua moore
@ 11:12 am
you dont know what your talking about you fucking cunt!!!
great album from someone who listens to decent music, none of this passion pit crap
go fist yourself !
Evan C.
@ 3:34 pm
I’m not sure I understand how lauded this album is. I’ve never heard anything else in the genre, but this really just isn’t my cup of tea.
Todd Kearns
@ 2:51 pm
Yeah! I agree with Joshua Moore. Piss off, you Pitchfork wannabies. Also, I like Bono a lot. Why is there no Bono on this site? I guess if girls in carigans liked Bono, you guys would be all up in to him. He’s saving the planet, man!
Go do something to yourself that you find unpleasant!
Max
@ 9:49 am
Whoa, certainly getting this as soon as possible.
Ian
@ 8:25 pm
Nice review man. Good work.
Max
@ 11:31 am
I wish he would just stop recording at this point. A tour with him and Macca before they both call it quits would be great though…
Joe
@ 3:53 pm
Haven’t listened but I have no doubt this is terrible. I really didn’t like Memory Almost Full either
Brian
@ 8:39 pm
Niiiice.
Joe
@ 9:41 pm
I’ll probably buy it for my uncle, he loves the stooges.
Brian Riewer
@ 12:03 pm
You didn’t include the butt picture? I’m disappointed, Joe.
Todd Kearns
@ 3:36 pm
If Boys II Men were playing, I’d go.
Joe
@ 6:47 pm
I almost did but then I pussyed out
Joe
@ 12:06 pm
Will be attending one of the NY shows
Brian
@ 4:34 pm
You’re killing me, Joe.
Max
@ 6:15 pm
Very disappointing record, was definitely expecting something more.
Joe
@ 7:47 pm
Haha, why is that?
Brian
@ 11:27 pm
I published the same thing like a minute after you did.
Max
@ 2:08 am
Joe’s very sneaky like that ; )
Matt
@ 1:19 am
I really like this song. I wonder if Albarn made Gruff Rhys apologize for selling the Mogwai ‘Blur:Are Shite’ t-shirts at SFA gigs before letting him get involved here?
Joe
@ 3:51 pm
Nice review, Paul. Loving this
Michael Fredericks
@ 8:41 pm
I’m so glad to see that Amelia Curran is getting some of the recognition she deserves.
Paul
@ 11:50 pm
Thanks Joe. I wouldn’t be surprised if this is in my top 5 at the end of the year.
Joe
@ 11:06 am
The “dance motherfucker” line on ‘I Built Myself a Metal Bird’ is pretty haunting.
Joe
@ 11:07 am
I hope we get some full band versions of these songs when he does the Atoms For Peace shows.
Paul
@ 12:31 am
Absolutely. His voice sometimes makes it difficult to make out the lyrics, but there are some pretty powerful moments in there.
Max
@ 5:33 pm
I love Godspeed, but I’ve never listened to any of the Silver Mt. Zion stuff. Should do that soon….
Matt
@ 2:34 am
While not a fan of their past work I will defend OK Go on their new album. This video is also rather cool.
Paul
@ 9:25 am
This album is pretty good, and you’re spot on with the blues and old-school R&B influences. Good review.
Tim Hardie
@ 11:35 pm
How did it take Sibylle Baier’s album so long to be released? Three and a half decades seems like quite a long time. Colour Green is a pretty album, though. I’ll have to pick it up when I get the chance.
Sun On The Sand · The National New Album Will Be Titled: High Violet
@ 3:58 am
[...] National’s follow-up to Boxer finally has a title: High Violet. It will be out on May 11st (via Beggars Banquet), Aaron [...]
John
@ 6:56 am
Loving the love for Quique.
Tim Hardie
@ 9:40 am
I’m pumped.
Vinh
@ 5:06 pm
Baier’s recordings were never meant to see the light of day, really, so they stayed locked up somewhere — presumably in her house. Her son Robby was at the root of Colour Green’s belated release, putting the CD together and presenting copies to family members. He also offered one to J Mascis (of Dino Jr.) who in turn relayed it to Orange Twin Records and the rest is history.
Glad you enjoy the album, Tim.
Andrea
@ 5:27 pm
Interesting name choice. I am looking forward to this.
Joe
@ 1:10 am
Song fucking rules
Max
@ 11:56 am
Great to see they’ll be playing shows before Lollapalooza, pretty much confirms they’ll be there.
Joe
@ 1:57 pm
Wish they had played a song of their first album, it is so much better than Contra
Tyler
@ 7:50 pm
I disagree, Joe. I prefer the first one but I’d say they’re pretty even in terms of quality.
Max
@ 12:05 am
I actually like Contra more than their self-titled.
Joe
@ 12:12 am
Interesting, can’t say I’ve listened to Contra more than twice, found it to be extremely boring compared to their self titled.
Tim Hardie
@ 12:26 pm
Brian’s been on a pretty big Sun Araw kick as of late, huh? Guess I should give that album a shot. I’m also curious about Pearls Before Swine, just because I recognize that cover from art history. Hieronymus Bosch for the win. We spent a lot of time on Garden of Delights just the other week.
Brian
@ 12:26 pm
Contra definitely kind of really sucks.
Brian
@ 12:29 pm
Not exactly Tim, I just sat on writing that blurb for a month.
And Laura, applause for Hounds of Love. That album is delicious.
Brian
@ 4:07 pm
Yorke-Ellison is the ultimate musical power couple.
Max
@ 4:27 pm
Yeah Joe I never go back to the self-titled, still really digging Contra.
Max
@ 10:33 pm
Love this, can’t wait to see them live this summer.
Brian
@ 12:51 am
I like Fight Softly, but I don’t think I 8.4 like Fight Softly.
Paul
@ 10:03 am
That’s fair. Personally, it’s easily the most consistently engaging and enjoyable album I’ve heard this year.
Brian
@ 3:09 pm
I just think High Places did the sound way better on Vs. Mankind.
Paul
@ 8:35 pm
I haven’t listened to that one yet, but I’ve heard mixed reviews.
H
@ 5:58 pm
I´m stoked!
Joe
@ 12:29 pm
Nice job on the rec’s guys. A lot of good stuff here
Matt
@ 2:25 am
I saw them at Lollapalooza a couple of years ago and I thought they more than justified being headliners with their performance. You can find many faults with some of their albums but, in the right setting, live they are pretty damn good.
Paul
@ 2:49 am
I agree completely, Matt. That Lolla set was great. I haven’t listened to the new album through, but I enjoyed the others quite a bit, though Origins is my favorite by far.
Paul
@ 6:21 pm
WOOOO!
Todd Kearns
@ 2:19 pm
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=5713941098825043515&ei=FZmfS9jhA46mqgK405X4Bw&q=ondi+timoner+dig!&hl=en&client=firefox-a#
DJB
@ 3:16 pm
http://soundcloud.com/djbethell/entrominutestop50-voi-parlate-bethell-hounds-several-thousand-bass
SHAGGY
@ 6:36 pm
CLAM SALAD
Huck
@ 6:55 pm
So if the tape came with a mission statement you’d get it? Suggestion: turn your ego off for a minute and just decide if you like it or not. Game over. I can take a dump and it doesn’t matter what my intentions were – it’s still a dump. Same goes for a meal. It might add to the experience of being around the dump/eating the meal, but it doesn’t change it.
Sun On The Sand · My Little Corner Of The World – Volume 49
@ 12:57 am
[...] of my peers at the Tiny Pitch Stones, I immediately think of my initial effort for Sun On The Sand. My article regarding Cursive’s The Ugly Organ was less a breakdown of the album, its concept, or how it [...]
Brian
@ 1:32 pm
I think you misunderstand what I was saying here. I do like the album but think that it ultimately lacks the focus to make it something great, and I do say that in the review. The point of the banter about intentions is to give the album some historical perspective in the context of both the genre and the artist’s career. Is this going to stand as a paradigm to the artist’s works down the road? Are we looking at a few rough patches from someone starting out that will ultimately get ironed out? Will this supposed boldness have any effect on how others in the genre will approach their music? Is this daft, or is it just plain amateurish? I try to address these kinds of questions in my reviews to have my readers understand it more, not to figure out if I like it more myself. At any rate, I always appreciate the constructive criticism and will take it to heart.
Paul
@ 2:55 am
Nice review, Matt. I saw them open foe Manchester Orchestra a coue of years ago and I was impressed then, too. I’d definitely see them again.
Matt
@ 3:13 am
I guess the word on the street is they will do their own tour later this year. Maybe they’ll show up at lollapalooza aswell.
Max
@ 2:46 pm
They will be at a festival in Japan the weekend of Lollapalooza, so it doesn’t look like it will happen.
I was at the same show Paul was at, and I was impressed as well.
SHAGGY
@ 5:41 pm
MARIAH FOUND A NEW HUNK HUH
Sun On The Sand · The Tallest Man On Earth Unveils New Song, Pre-Order Details
@ 3:05 pm
[...] favorite The Tallest Man On Earth has just posted a new song from his upcoming sophomore album The Wild [...]
Max
@ 3:17 pm
A cover of ‘Graceland’? I gotta hear this….
Brian
@ 3:47 pm
Secretly Canadian didn’t specify that in the press release, but Discogs is claiming it’s a Paul Simon cover.
Galvi
@ 1:58 pm
Perfect description of the album! Da iawn
Jacob
@ 4:31 am
I’d say the lyrics are quite a bit above average. Especially on ‘Airplanes’, which deals with the death of his grandfather, I find the lyrics to be mesmerising.
Joe
@ 1:24 pm
Would be pretty cool if they reunited, still listen to Shape of Punk to Come a fair amount
Tyler
@ 3:18 pm
I would be excited for this to happen, but I’m not getting my hopes up.
Andi
@ 3:26 am
I am typically hesitant of stating things in absolute terms, but this is probably one of the most sincere and engaging music reviews I have ever read. So thanks, Brian. You’re a fantastic writer, and keep it up.
Jason
@ 8:32 pm
Hey, I just watched the movie Free Willy 4 and heard a song and I’m pretty sure the name of it is Roof tops. It goes like this……”Over the rooftops and over the city I’m callin’ your name. When no one else to turn to, it’s eaisier to stay in a state of dreamin’.” And so on. Do you know where I can get this song, I-tunes, youtube, hulu, anywhere?
Max
@ 2:43 am
Agreed, well done Brian.
Brian
@ 5:00 pm
I’ve only witnessed the Bradford Cox experience in its pre-Logos Atlas Sound form, but I’ve heard plenty of great things about Deerhunter’s live show. Needless to say, I’m a bit jealous.
Paul
@ 5:41 pm
They were quite good.
Max
@ 9:36 pm
Holy. Shit.
Joe
@ 10:10 pm
My thoughts exactly
Evan
@ 12:15 am
Hey guys,
You’ve spelled our name wrong. We’re One Thirty BPM.
One Thirty Bit is some crazy awesome hybrid of One Thirty BPM and Twenty Four Bit.
Joe
@ 10:25 am
Haha, Apologies Evan, that spelling error was my fault
Evan
@ 4:27 pm
This is a contender for the greatest album of all time. Will be there.
Brian Dongelewic
@ 7:55 pm
WOW! Dee- I am incredibly impressed. Such a terrific interview. And I had no idea that Morgan has such an astounding background…I always just loved her as a sweet, classy, terrific drummer whose company and conversation I thoroughly have enjoyed. Thank you s much for educating me on lovely M’s talents and history. GOD! I really miss her. Do you think she would be offended if we kidnapped her and spoiled her rotten as our guest? LOL! Meanwhile, Sheila and I will keep out eyes and ears open for any news of a Andy Kim gig anywhere near us, both now, in NY, and later when we are in Vegas.
Joe
@ 10:28 am
Nice review, Vinh. Agree on the rating as well, solid album
Paul
@ 10:45 pm
I’ve been meaning to check this one out. Very good work, Vinh.
M*
@ 12:15 am
I LOVE THEIR ALBUM COVER
Brian Riewer
@ 4:21 pm
Mmmmmmmmm.
Joe
@ 8:28 pm
New Iron & Wine this year would be yummy
Max
@ 10:52 pm
This is very bad, possibly the most talented member of the band.
Max
@ 1:35 am
Crucial Max Logan contribution: “Haha”
Awesome.
Max
@ 2:21 pm
While I believe they hit the mark more than you do, this is a fantastic read. Well done.
Joe
@ 5:41 pm
I like him more and more everyday
James
@ 7:42 pm
This sounds not like a new track at all but purely a cover. Am I missing something?
Emilio
@ 4:49 pm
putting it out on cd was absolute rubbish.
looking forward to your steve mason ‘boys outside’ review (it’s going to happen right?)
from a distant european land
emilio
Matt
@ 9:13 pm
I’ll get right on that sir.
Matt
@ 12:12 am
what a great picture for that story!
Joe
@ 11:22 am
Haha, pretty much symbolizes exactly what I think of this story
Max
@ 3:24 pm
hahahaha
Tom
@ 8:51 pm
I had Ronnie Dio sign a styrofoam cup in the late 60′s after a small town Saturday Night Dance complete with smashing a guitar on stage. Ronnie Dio and the Profits….WOW.
Matt
@ 9:00 pm
Well that is something of an upgrade.
Tim Hardie
@ 11:43 pm
Really? As weak as their output has been this past decade, I still see this as a pretty big downgrade. Classic U2 is the bomb, and from what I hear they’re still excellent live. (Not that this really affects me…lol.)
Emilio
@ 1:33 pm
no! how? why? why is this happening?
i guess we’ll have to agree to disagree on this one mr. m. james
Emilio
@ 1:43 pm
it’s a casio on a muddy beach
Joe
@ 2:08 pm
I will also slightly disagree, would of given it something in the 7.5 range
Max
@ 2:10 pm
Hate to admit it, but this review sums up my thoughts perfectly. Really could never get into the second half of this album.
Matt
@ 9:16 pm
I think the first half of the album is brilliant but it just loses momentum after ‘I can Change’ and never really fully recovers, hence the disappointment.
Rick
@ 5:52 pm
Though you know how I feel about 4’33″, this is a fine piece of writing. Well done, Brian.
Paul
@ 2:08 pm
Nice review, Jennifer. I like this album a lot more than I thought I would.
Emilio
@ 2:17 pm
100% agreed…great album
Max
@ 9:46 pm
I love ‘Older’ :(
Brian Riewer
@ 12:35 am
I love Now and Later candy :(
Matt
@ 1:26 am
Nice one Jeremy. I’m assuming you are familiar with the second Simple Kid album aswell which I consider to be his best work. A very underrated musician.
Brian Riewer
@ 3:27 pm
WOO!
Brian Riewer
@ 3:27 pm
HOO!
Max
@ 4:43 pm
At Dawn!?!?!? Gahhhhh why couldn’t they do this in Chicago!
Paul
@ 11:41 pm
Sorry Max, it was just too cheesy for me. I felt like I could hear something similar on a pop-country radio station.
And Brian, so do I. It made that line that much harder to swallow. ; )
Todd Todd Todd
@ 11:59 pm
Brian, let’s make out. Sincerely, Todd.
Andrea
@ 3:42 pm
Aren’t all of these comments approved by Brian…?
MissNovemberTuesday
@ 6:26 pm
I like the way this made reference to current artists to help people understand the points in perspective. For those who may not have been around or who were too young to appreciate the impact that was made @ the time, this shows just how Duran Duran changed the face of the music landscape.
Rick
@ 10:30 am
Nice review Brian. You always sound so angry! ha
TBlanchard
@ 5:25 pm
Added Denver and I bought my ticket today. Can’t wait to see this legend in action. Expecting a great performance and I know he will deliver. If you haven’t already got tickets I would get them now.
Emilio
@ 3:26 pm
pretty much agreed.
kind of difficult to follow-up ‘the satanic satanist’ though (which is one of the best listens during a london underground journey…imho).
Malcom
@ 2:14 am
Such a great record.
Rick
@ 7:09 pm
Good album. Good review.
Andrea
@ 5:23 pm
Ha, why do you always have to mention ‘chillwave?’ Anyway, love this album. Cool review as well.
Joe
@ 2:14 pm
Really like that album Vinh
Vinh
@ 4:25 pm
Which one? Regardless, glad to hear it.
Joe
@ 5:28 pm
Africa Brasil, really good stuff
Vinh
@ 5:48 pm
Ah, yeah. Shame he only came into his own on his final quality record. You can still hear traces of overly polished Ben (‘O Plebeu’) but all in all, it’s delightfully funky.
Rick
@ 1:05 pm
ha You’re really good at bashing this band. Nice review.
Tyler
@ 5:56 pm
Meh, ‘Born Free’ is much better thaan this.
A
@ 3:24 pm
TTA have Broken up, i’m waiting for furst to go solo…
Brian Riewer
@ 4:08 pm
In an interview with Pitchfork, Berglund said that nothing official has been decided with the future of TTA, and that they haven’t actually broken up. If I had to put money on it, I’d bet that they’ll end up recording together in the future.
http://pitchfork.com/news/39189-meet-ceo-inside-the-mind-of-eric-berglund-of-the-tough-alliance/
Tim
@ 11:04 am
Awesome. Nice article. I wish i could have made it but had to work a street fest in the city that weekend. All Good has been on my list for years… maybe next?! Yonder!
Jeremy
@ 2:32 pm
Thanks Tim. It would definitely be worth checking out next year if you can make it.
Tom
@ 12:58 pm
It sounds like an inspiring, life changing event. It must have been, as my son proposed to his girlfriend, and she said “yes”!
Great article Jeremy!
Paul
@ 10:47 am
I really like these guys. I saw them play in Toronto and got to talk to them for a bit. Very cool band.
Jason
@ 9:53 pm
Caught the Spree opening for Bowie years ago. I loved the show and was ready to drink the musical kool-aid.
katie
@ 2:45 am
beautifully writ jason – you have a great way with words! I like the sound of emotional roots..
Max
@ 8:18 pm
I’m a huge Arcade Fire fan, but there’s no fucking way this album will be better than OK Computer.
Matt
@ 8:10 pm
You’re about to eat your words, Mr. Max.
Rebecca Hiscott
@ 12:11 am
A truly incredible album, which I learned from reading this review!
Matt
@ 4:15 pm
This has to be the best news story of the year. Those pigeons have done to them what they have been doing to my ears for the past few years.
Jeremy
@ 4:30 pm
This is the best music news I’ve read since Dave Matthews Band dropped their crap on a Chicago riverboat.
Matt
@ 8:59 pm
UIC Pavilion in Chicago is one of the worst venues I’ve been to. Absolutely no atmosphere in that place (probably not helped by the fact they don’t sell any alcohol). I was looking forward to this until now.
Jeremy
@ 3:40 pm
This is a great clip!
Max
@ 12:05 am
I’m twelve listens in, and while it is a great album, it doesn’t touch Ok Computer.
Jay
@ 6:44 pm
Sapphie is one of my favorite folk albums and I’ve always thought it never got much attention, but yeah, this is pretty bad. But at least he’s doing something new
Vinh
@ 10:19 pm
I’m glad you mentioned Sapphie as it captures Youngs at his finest — the type of songwriter who packs a punch by seemingly doing very little. Ultrahits, on the other hand, is the complete inverse situation and a bit of a drag aside from the opening 3 cuts.
emilio
@ 1:58 pm
a truly horrible album
emilio
@ 2:00 pm
i agree with most of the review but would have scored it in the mid 6 area.
Andrea
@ 12:24 am
Yeah, this was my first exposure to his music. I’m guessing it wasn’t the best place to start…
Vinh
@ 6:21 pm
I suppose that depends on what you’re looking for out of Youngs’ music. The aforementioned Sapphie is slow and sepulchral, a brilliant ode to his late pet Alsatian. For his slightly more experimental side, I’d recommend River Through Howling Sky or The Naive Shaman. For a streamlined version of Youngs’ elemental, drawn out folk, try Autumn Response.
Rebecca Hiscott
@ 9:20 pm
What drove me nuts were the constant (possibly, but not definitely, sarcastic) references to the evils of technology (i.e. ‘the Message’). Technology has been VERY kind to M.I.A.! ‘Born Free’ was, for me, the only standout track – and even then, the music video nearly killed it.
Paul
@ 12:40 am
I haven’t listened to this one yet, but I liked their debut well enough and they’re very good live. Nice write-up, Jennifer.
Jennifer
@ 1:38 am
Thanks, Paul! If you liked their debut, I would definitely recommend checking out this one — there are a few songs that are really amazing.
Max
@ 2:01 pm
*facepalm*
jeremy
@ 3:04 pm
I was converted into a Green Day fan after I saw them a couple of weeks ago. They put on one of the highest energy shows out there.
Andrea
@ 4:42 pm
Album’s boring.
Matt
@ 7:13 pm
Probably my favourite Bowie album.
Matt
@ 7:13 pm
About time. I will be there.
Brian Riewer
@ 3:48 pm
These guys deserve waaaaaaaaay more recognition.
Max
@ 4:49 pm
Fantastic track.
Joe
@ 5:36 pm
Classic overrating of Floyd, Zeppelin, and The Stones, no ‘A Love Supreme’, OK Computer over Kid A, ACDC made the list, The Strokes? etc.
Max
@ 12:30 am
Meat Loaf at #39 made me chuckle.
Joe
@ 6:34 pm
I fully expect to see this released within the next month or two
Nathan
@ 4:37 pm
I am going to buy this right now!
Paul
@ 6:40 am
Loved this review. Love this album even more. Manics can do no wrong in my eyes.
Todd Kearns
@ 10:18 am
Great news.
matt
@ 12:16 pm
Fuck me that’s a long read. Big fan of the work of kasher in the past and will still probably be checking this out despite its apparent failings.
Todd Kearns
@ 12:36 pm
I’ve never been one for brevity. It’s worth listening to. It’s not, yeesh, it’s not a “bad album.” If you’re a Kasher fan, you should own this. I will continue to spin the hell out of it.
Erin
@ 9:51 pm
I haven’t heard the album yet, but this is an excellent, well thought out review. Oh, and Cursive is difficult to top.
Ross
@ 8:08 pm
This review is close to spot-on… as a huge Tim Kasher fan for over a decade I was seriously disappointed with this release.
Joe
@ 1:58 pm
Nice review, Jeremy. I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this album
avg
@ 11:17 pm
we gon’ party tonight
Andrea
@ 3:00 am
The comparison to Xiu Xiu means I will probably check this out now. Nice review, Brian.
Andrew Crowley
@ 12:10 pm
Lovely article. Full of intelligence and it takes an interesting perspective on The Seeds place in the musical canon. So many times writers view a band in a vacuum and tend to ignore what contemporary sounds could be influencing them. Mr. Kearns did a great job acknowledging the context during which this song was released. He has a real knack for describing the sound of music in a way that isn’t too abstract or as a way to show how clever the writer is at turning a phase. I would love to see another article by Mr. Kearns about garage rock.
Todd, duh
@ 11:53 am
If you don’t like Wocka, you fucked up.
Tom
@ 3:03 pm
I look forward to hearing the album. Sorry I missed Willy & Carpe Diem in Evanston.
Phillip
@ 4:07 pm
Good post; I enjoyed all three videos. The new track makes me excited about the next album.
Ryan Johnson
@ 2:26 am
Brandi is one of the most amazing artists ever. She’s also one of the most amazing persons ive ever had the blessing to communicate with. I can’t wait to hear this album. Her last album “swim” was a masterpiece! Its under the name Emma Burgess though. Isuggest everybody should check it out. Its incredible this woman doesn’t have a major label record deal. If you have the chance to see her live, do it, you wont regret it. :)
Phillip
@ 9:20 pm
That track is killer. I’m actually glad to see Jay Electronica joining forces with someone who knows the industry as well as Jay-Z.
Brian Riewer
@ 2:11 pm
I don’t know what the hell to think about this album.
Paul
@ 11:19 am
Right? It’s pretty frustrating.
Jason Luke Helmsworth
@ 5:00 pm
Much very like.
Phillip
@ 10:49 pm
Definitely going to the show in Roswell – thanks for the post.
He played arbitrarily in NY, why not closer to home?
Zia McCabe
@ 1:59 am
Right on dude, that was such a fun night!
thanks,
zia
Rick
@ 8:58 pm
Really having fun trying some of these albums out. Effi Briest is a great find.
Joe
@ 10:12 pm
Agreed, Effi is great stuff
Tim Hardie
@ 8:57 pm
I was not expecting an album to get such a positively bitter write-up in an end of the year feature. Brian, I love you.
Bryan Ramirez
@ 2:38 pm
I didn’t know they were originally from Utah! I know Dan has family here in Vegas…
ROBSON
@ 12:39 pm
CHRISTINA AGUILERA – STRIPPED!!!
1.000.000.000 X THE BEST
Aimee
@ 3:17 pm
This album is great! Everyone who likes bands like The Killers should listen
to it!
jman
@ 8:03 pm
wow, what the heck are you smoking? To say this album’s sonic traits resemble in any way the popcorn-happiness of CCM’s biggest hits shows you either didn’t listen to the album or you don’t have a single inkling of a grasp on the mechanics of sound. The subdued vocals are an aquired taste- those who like them on this album say it’s like reading a book- the words do the talking, not the person. On the other hand people like you say it’s lifeless and dull- I understand both and don’t really have an opinion on it. But to call them rebels without a cause outside of upsetting conservative grandparents, based only on your INCORRECT interpretations of two songs on the album- that is completely absurd.
dezzy
@ 11:20 am
don’t care what anyone says really. just listen to “the man who stole a leopard’ if you want to know what duran duran are really about. this song alone is reminiscent of their best songs and early ’80′s period. this is the sound that got me into art and music at a whole other level when i was in 3rd grade! i used to draw and paint for hours with the Rio album playing on repeat. ahhh….those were the days. the fact that these guys could make music like this again is a little shocking. i guess some credit to mark ronson must be given for reconnecting dd with their more primal side.
MattM
@ 3:46 pm
journalism with an opinion is one thing, but when the journalist in question makes himself into the sole arbiter over whether or not a work of art has any value or not, journalism of this kind is shown for the sad thing it is: an arrogant celebration of the journalist himself.
obviously i’m a fan of Who Can Know It?, but your negative review, in and of itself, doesn’t bother me as much as your self-satisfied dismissal of any album (and band) that you seem to, forgive me, not understand in the slightest.
comparing the record to michael w. smith rather than say, Flaming Lips and David Bazan, makes it easier to call it cheesy. saying the instrumentation is lifeless instead of pointing out that it’s literally several steps more complicated than any previous Showbread record makes it easier to say they didn’t know what they were doing. i can understand the “deadpan” vocal delivery isn’t for everyone, myself included, but you honestly can decide conclusively (and tell the internet) they have no passion based on your interpretation of a vocal delivery?
why do readers continue to dignify and accept this type of sad egomania instead of demanding these critics get off their little laptops and create something themselves so that some stranger with a blog can dismantle it piece by piece and explain to you why it fails, why it doesn’t matter, why THEY know better.
i’d suggest doing more research than reading a wikipedia page, learning some humility and making something yourself. then maybe write something with a palpable understanding that you are but one in a sea of opinions, not judge and jury over the value of something you may not even understand.
everyone else, i suggest we stop reading this kind of thing… it’s only because we keep looking that they keep it up.
Daniel
@ 10:21 pm
this album is musically amazing, and full of hooks, and joy. Joy isn’t equal to happiness, it’s deeper than that.They have joy in knowing Jesus. And He is their cause.
Tyler
@ 10:47 pm
You’ve completely missed the point of the album. The entire thing concentrates less in instrumentation to get across the critical lyrical points. I say this knowing full well that you’ve completely misinterpreted those as well. Apparently you have failed to see the beauty in this album, and for that, I apologize.
Vinh
@ 11:17 pm
The somewhat rare practice of collaborative criticism notwithstanding, reviews are by their very nature reflective of one writer’s perspective — thereby presenting the author as a “sole arbiter”. I’m not entirely sure how you would suggest separating this notion from “journalism with an opinion”. The two tread hand in hand, seeing as every review acts as the vehicle for a single writer’s thoughts on the value of a work. If you have qualms with this framework, you have qualms with rock criticism as a whole, which then begs the question: why are you up in arms over this particular piece?
It’s unfortunate that you feel this review is arrogant, but it’s more so odd since you follow up said accusation by claiming the author doesn’t “understand” the album as though there’s one definitive thread he can cling to and any other vantage point is incorrect. It’s an awfully dismissive lens from which to view music. Then you crank up the very arrogance you’re tried to brand Tim with by ever-so-kindly suggesting he should conduct more research prior to writing, implying that your knowledge on this matter trumps his. The kettle is unimpressed.
If Tim feels the instrumentation is lifeless, why is he not entitled to express this notion? How would picking up an instrument, penning shitty songs, and having them critiqued — which any sensible musician would accept — validate his perspective? Moreover, why is he currently wrong? Wouldn’t the presence/absence of passion be chalked up to one’s personal experience with the music rather than non-existing set-in-stone traits? Tim didn’t pick up any passion when he listened, so he relayed his disappointment. How on earth is that haughty? Furthermore, how does that, in any capacity, denote that Tim isn’t aware his opinion is just that? “You are but one in a sea of opinions.” Tim agrees, I agree, every staffer here agrees. And yet, you’re of the view that he doesn’t.
What a strange diatribe.
Zac
@ 10:43 am
I believe they wrote a song for you. It’s called “Shepherd No Sheep”
Take a listen.
anonymous
@ 8:19 pm
Amen to Zac
Matt
@ 9:13 pm
This album sucks
Chris Kopcow
@ 12:02 am
The publication is Music Week (hence the “Music Week” on the header of the screenshot), a trade magazine in the UK. It’s similar to Billboard over here…mostly industry and chart info. So there’s some credibility there but nothing substantial for now.
Matt
@ 9:11 am
The People isn’t exactly the most reliable news source but if it means Albarn can concentrate on more Blur records then this is fine with me.
john doe
@ 8:51 am
Worst review ever…….
Vinh
@ 10:29 am
I’ll take that insight to heart.
Matt
@ 1:07 am
Pretty sure Kot writes for the Tribune. I know this posting is about as exciting as the acts announced.
Paul
@ 9:13 am
Thanks Matt, you’re right; I’m not sure why I did that.
And I agree, not too thrilling so far.
Rick
@ 10:11 am
I like the album a lot, but damn good review.
Criss Cross
@ 3:17 pm
you use a lot of big words mhmmm I reckon I like dem french fried pertators
so is this your rejected Pitchfork review?
Vinh
@ 3:28 pm
Can’t say I’ve ever submitted anything to them, nor do I plan to anytime soon. The disdain is appreciated nonetheless.
Matt
@ 3:33 pm
Man, that’s a fucking shocking album cover aswell.
Joe
@ 3:46 pm
Vinh’s a Pitchfork sleeper agent
Vinh
@ 4:07 pm
Mind and cover. Blown.
Paul
@ 7:27 pm
Yeah, it was done by the frontman Conrad Keely; it really suits the album.
Dimitri
@ 4:34 am
On 02/25 is she “opening” for Alexi Murdoch? If so then you should say “opening for” and not list “w/Alexi Murdoch”
Vinh
@ 11:37 am
I don’t know honestly. I’m merely relaying the information sent to me by her label Fatcat Records.
Mr. Shuffleupagus
@ 5:19 am
“Bloom” is my Swell Tune today:
http://mrshuffleupagus.blogspot.com/2011/02/todays-swell-tune-bloom.html
It’s like a Joy Division LP at 45rpm.
Matt
@ 12:43 am
Lord of the Dance!
Tim Hardie
@ 1:42 pm
The Pittsburgh pre-sale sold out already, but I got mine.
Joe
@ 1:40 pm
*Immature response arguing the king of limbs is good*
Matt
@ 12:22 pm
No Chicago gig. I guess that means lollapalooza.
Paul
@ 10:23 am
I actually really like this album. Great songs. There’s nothing wrong with a good pop melody!
Jeremy
@ 11:48 am
It certainly had moments that grabbed me. Overall, however, it just fell flat. I’ve got nothing against pop melodies, these just sounded like ones I’d heard before.
emilio
@ 6:18 pm
well done matteoJ…try and get your hands on their ‘live from london’ that was “released” a few days ago.
the album is going to be very good.
beady eye review coming up?
Paul
@ 10:47 am
Brilliant album.
mrX
@ 12:51 pm
Either you just want to make many unnecessary comparisons or you really like bashing Radiohead
Chris
@ 3:14 pm
Couldn’t agree more. I mean I liked “Dig Out Your Soul” a bit more in total, but this was much better than I thought i was gonna be
Jamie
@ 10:23 am
While I still see Noel as the more talented Gallagher brother, Liam has done an admirable job with his post-Oasis offering. Nice review, but it leaves me wishing that you could score a live interview at one of their US shows. Come on SotS, sort that out!
Matt
@ 10:56 am
Would love to interview them but we will be too busy with our bono and jay z interviews at that time. The stars line up to talk to sun on the sand and we have to prioritize.
Jamie
@ 2:28 pm
Matt, thanks for the reply, but I think you’re selling yourself short here. Liam/Beady Eye need to promote their album (especially in the US) and I’m sure many reviewers have written off the album as some Oasis ripoff and not critiqued it on it’s individual merits. Given your history of excellent reviews for SotS as well as a penchant for britpop (based on your ‘what we’re listening to’ contributions), I think you are well poised to interview the band. It can’t hurt to look into it – I for one would love to read the end result.
Paul
@ 6:48 am
Love this album. Great review. Can really see you’ve given this album a listen, and not dismissed it like so many others have without giving it a chance. Be sure not to sell Andy and Gem short though, they will have written a lot of these songs too. The Roller I do believe is a Gem composition. I messaged you the other day Matt about a review of my bands EP, we’re a UK band heavily influenced by early Oasis, Manic Street Preachers and the like. Would be awesome if you could! http://opentofire.bandcamp.com/
Joe
@ 2:23 pm
Nice review, Vinh. One of my favorites so far this year
George
@ 8:35 pm
Nice review. The Beat Goes On would be Liam’s most moving and introspective lyrics but he didn’t write it, Andy Bell did.
Matt
@ 9:55 pm
Ha! Did liam write any of this shit? I guess i assumed he wrote most of the album. Cheers for the feedback though.
Paul
@ 4:22 am
I believe they all have writing credits on all the tracks, but from what I’ve read on it a few tracks have been credited to specific people more so. Liam (Beatles and Stones, For Anyone) Gem (The Roller) Andy (Millionaire, Standing On The Edge Of Noise).
aleena
@ 12:26 pm
i loooove wizz
lain
@ 1:19 am
This review is nearly incomprehensible.
Vinh
@ 11:49 am
I thought the premise was rather evident and buttressed throughout: the album is too caught up in Asobi Seksu’s previous identities to assume a current one.
Matt
@ 9:08 pm
Nice review Chris. This album has certainly grown on me alot since I first heard it.
Joe
@ 9:49 pm
you guys liked this a lot more than i did. a pretty lackluster effort
blake saavedra
@ 2:38 pm
BOOOOOOOO!!
DocTrey
@ 3:06 pm
great review Jason, hopefully weʻll see you in Vegas!
Tim Hardie
@ 2:33 am
Brian, way to make that J Dilla fellow sound so dang appealing.
Joe
@ 2:49 pm
album is a total snorefest
Paul
@ 3:01 am
Wow, I really like this album. There’s no doubt I think in anyone’s mind who are fans of this band that First Days Of Spring is an absolute masterpiece. But stood on it’s own merits and not the greatness that came before, I think it’s a good album.
greg
@ 9:15 am
LOVE love love that Sanat Cruz album, nice to hear someone else heard it too.
Jeremy
@ 5:48 pm
Nice write up on Chinese Democracy. I’m going to head over to Best Buy and see if I can snag that same deal.
Karen Molas
@ 12:30 am
I would love to have the words to Yesterday in Hawaiian sung by Mailani.
Mahalo nui loa!
Joe
@ 1:32 pm
my biggest disappointment of the year
Rick
@ 12:46 pm
Paragraph 2 should say Sometimes I Wish We Were an Eagle. Really good review, Vinh. Bill Callahan still has it.
Vinh
@ 1:00 pm
Haha what a flub on my part. Thanks for the correction, Rick.
Jeremy
@ 6:07 pm
Great review. Excellent record.
lewis rainsbury
@ 7:44 pm
wrong picture by a mile, that’s slime
Vinh
@ 8:12 pm
True, shouldn’t have trusted Google Images.
lewis rainsbury
@ 3:46 pm
will was very happy with this x
Paul
@ 10:06 am
Need UK dates.
k-shan
@ 5:02 pm
intriguing review. i loved pale ravine so i will check this one out. just hope that i find it more cohesive than you did.
Vinh
@ 10:23 am
Thanks for reading. I hope the album treats you better than it did me, I still can’t get lost in it.
Mike
@ 12:45 pm
The devastating and sad loss of Clarence Clemons will certainly change the sound of the E. Street Band. Bruce and Clarence worked together for nearly forty years and were such close friends. They really were blood brothers. I’m sure if Bruce is going to record new music or is already in the process, it’s going to be an emotional journey for him and the rest of the band. It will definitely be a dedication to “The Big Man”.
jimmy sandals
@ 1:42 am
YESSSSSSSSSSSSEX IS THE BEST#
Tom
@ 6:14 pm
I really enjoyed the Album!
Matt
@ 9:31 pm
Great article Paul. Nicely done.
Paul
@ 2:14 pm
Thanks, Matt.
Brian Riewer
@ 3:41 pm
These guys killed it.
Ella
@ 9:33 am
There are no words to describe how bdoaioucs this is.
Babi
@ 10:08 pm
Wtf . He Smoke Weed At All His Concerts . &nd` Cops Are There . &nd` They Just Arrest Him , Wow
DOS MOON
@ 6:30 pm
Thanks for the kind words about the “spacetime” video!
Vinh
@ 10:00 pm
You’re welcome! Keep up the good work.
Mac
@ 3:37 am
Really feelin the sound, but it aint new. Comin to mind, felt like tech n9ne, twista, trae, etc at times.
k-shan
@ 4:37 pm
intriguing but unknowable
Mads
@ 7:38 pm
Cool! I didn’t even know about this interview until I was looking around their facebook page. I love Youth Sounds. I hope they come out with a full length album soon!
Jack
@ 12:26 pm
Good review. I’d be interested in discussing a couple albums or artists further that you feel are similar.
Jesus Christ
@ 3:34 pm
predictable, hipster wannabe-Pitchfork review. Nice try, but you fail.
DJ LIL'TAL
@ 4:42 pm
THANKS FOR YOUR OPINION ON THE EP. I KINDA AGREE WITH YOU, CONSIDERING I HAD NOTHING TO DO WITH THE REMIX SELECTIONS, I THINK THEY DON’T DO MY ORIG NOR EP ANY JUSTICE. I’VE HEARD BETTER TRACKS FROM THESE OTHER PRODUCERS. THIS IS ONE REASON WHY I’M NOT TRYING TO RELEASE ANYTHING ELSE WITHOUT HAVING SOME TYPE OF CONTROL OVER THE PROJECT. ALTHOUGH I APPRECIATE & IS A FAN OF ALLTHE PRODUCERS THAT PARTICIPATED IN THE PROJECT, I RATHER THE PROJECT STAYED ON HOLD UNTIL SOME BETTER REMIXES WHERE SUBMITTED. SO JUST STAYED TUNED IN TO DJ LIL’TAL AS I GET READY TO DROP SOME REAL HEAT IN THE HOUSE / GHETTO / BOOTY / CHICAGO JACK / WHATEVER STYLE U WANT GENRE’S. KEEP IN TUNE WITH ME AT
http://WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/DJLILTAL
http://WWW.TWITTER.COM/DJLILTAL
http://WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/USER/DADDY1LONGSTROKE
http://WWW.MYSPACE.COM/DJLILTAL1
DJLILTAL@GMAIL.COM
Anonymous
@ 7:45 pm
Love this review!
rubyjune
@ 12:51 am
Hello. I want this album. how can i get it?!! thanks:) rj
Paul
@ 8:55 am
Hi RJ. You can listen to/download the EP at Wass’ bandcamp site here: http://julianwass.bandcamp.com/. There’s even a cassette version with gold foil tape!
You can also check out our review of the EP here: http://sunonthesand.com/?p=27606
Thanks for reading!
Matt
@ 12:24 am
Fuck off Ke$ha
Early
@ 11:07 am
Deadly accurate aenwsr. You’ve hit the bullseye!
S. Rafuse
@ 3:09 pm
Your list is going excellent so far!
Rick
@ 12:46 pm
Nice to see Dye it Blonde up so high. Love that record. Great list so far guys. Looking forward to seeing the top ten.
Rick
@ 12:41 pm
Best part of the list is the lack of Bon Iver. Surprise at number one. Good tunes.
Vinh
@ 5:26 pm
Did you find anything new to listen to on the list, Rick? As always, thanks for reading.
Jeremy
@ 2:20 pm
This is a really solid list to leave 2011 with. I’m glad to see tUnE-yArDs on top.
Robyn
@ 11:48 pm
Nice to see/hear Allen doing so well.
I got to see him when he performed in Spokane with Logan Heftel.
I was impressed then, I could tell he would do well.
No offense to Logan, but I love Allen’s style!
Alfred banks
@ 1:46 pm
Improud seeing my friends doing theyre thing!!