Filed under Album Review …

May 07 2013
Leave a comment
Album Review

Album Review: Andrew McMahon – The Pop Underground

I See Colors When I Hear Your Voice

Initially, the thought of Andrew McMahon trading-in his iconic piano for a full-on synthesizer sounds a bit blasphemous and ludicrous. The Piano Man is a legend around these parts; a lyrical genius in the eyes of many. Still, we remained profoundly hopefully when the announcement was made excitedly stating McMahon would be embarking on his first-ever solo journey. Astonishingly, it was only a week prior to the album’s release that I was informed of the its upcoming arrival. Like most, I had been expecting the traditional mix of anthems and ballads. Never would I have believed I would instantly fall for any kind of “new and improved” version of what I’ve been accustomed to and attached to for years. In all honestly, The Pop Underground was a resplendent surprise for me. Eventually, the thought of Andrew McMahon trading-in his famed piano for a cutting-edge synthesizer sound seems flawlessly acceptable and significantly late in its arrival.

More of My Review After the Cut!

Tagged , , , , , , , , ,
Mar 04 2013
Leave a comment
Album Review

Album Review: Bobby Long – Wishbone

“I was so in love with you, with what people do to me and you”

Evolution – The process by which different kinds of living organisms are thought to have developed and diversified from earlier forms during the history of the earth.

When an upcoming record – from an artist you have known for some time – is to be released, there’s a thrill of excitement that runs through you, a feeling of elation. Having no idea what to expect, you try to prepare yourself for what’s to come, by listening to that artist’s previous records and singles. You hope the latest album surpasses the former, but resign yourself to only accept the newest complication if it’s as good as its predecessor. When you finally are able to hold that record in your hand – see it waiting for you in your iTunes library – that feeling of elation transforms into nervousness. You try to delay the inevitable, sorting through several (good and bad) scenarios in your mind, knowing that you’ll receive no peace until your headphones are securely in place and the first track is running through your ears. In most cases, your anxiety is unfounded, but somehow warranted. Sometimes, it is well founded and is quite disappointing. In rare instances, it should have never existed – the album going above and beyond your expectations. When my Wishbone experience began two weeks ago, I had no idea I would be left in complete and utter shock.

More After the Cut!

Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Oct 02 2012
2 Comments
Album Review

Album Review: Mumford & Sons – Babel

“I’ll be yours, if you’ll be mine”

Image Source: Google Images

This blog had been less than a week old when we first introduced you to Mumford & Sons, having no idea that these soon-to-be rock stars would shortly bring the music world to its knees. Having spent an insurmountable time on the charts with their debut album, Sigh No More proved that this little Brit band was more than just a flash in the pan. Having said that, I had been less than optimistic about this album, unsure if Babel could compete with, even excel its predecessor. I had no need to worry, of course. Honestly, after Sigh No More‘s never ending tour of the iTunes Top 10, I felt put off, in a way. I couldn’t help but be a bit cynical. “Yes, we get it. They’re awesome. Now, can we move on?” I ask that you please not hold it against me, for I did not know any better. It wasn’t until I heard the initial opening hymns of Babel that my love for Mumford & Sons was renewed.

Babel brings with it, that classic Mumford charm; the strum of the guitar, the beat of the drum, all played with reckless abandon. There’s a vulnerability, a pain in Marcus Mumford’s voice that is hard to resist. There’s passion, rare and unequaled. The tracks themselves act as self-deprecating love songs, gentle at first, expanding into monumental and dynamic productions. They speak of regret and loss, change and belief. Each anthem, with their layers of harmonies, come together to create one entity. Yet, you are able to hear each pulse of the drum, the elaborate quiver of the banjo, and the thrum of the bass clearly through the stock.

More After the Cut!

Tagged , , , , , , , , , ,
Jul 03 2012
10 Comments
Album Review

Album Review: Maroon 5 – Overexposed

Ladykiller

Source: Google Images

Ten years have come and gone from the time Maroon 5 broke onto the music scene with their debut album, Songs About Jane (I know, I can’t believe it, either), to today. Since then, the group has supplied us with two more records. The most recent, 2010′s Hands All Over – which I wrote a less than stellar review about (I still feel bad about that). Now Maroon 5 is back with another musical adventure. This latest creation promotes the group’s ever-changing sound; Maroon 5′s melodic evolution from Rock to Pop. Though the reviews from certain critics have been unfavorable, don’t let them fool you. The album is infinitely better than its predecessor, a comeback of sorts for the group. Overexposed supplies us with sexy, singable tunes. Which is, essentially, what Maroon 5 does best.

By this time, I’m sure you’ve all heard the initial single off the record. While Payphone is one heck of an earworm, I admit – Adam Levine’s signature falsetto prominently on display – I found the inclusion of Wiz Khalifia’s rap-solo disrupting to the entire song. It seemed misplaced and out of character for the group’s style. The song’s uncomplicated tune and rough lyrics offset its faults, making it one of two predominately catchy tracks on the album. The other, One More Night, is the most-recent single to be released to the public. At first, I wasn’t too sure how I felt about track, but I soon found myself returning to it again and again. Resistance is futile when it comes to the song. It might be overly Pop, but the lyrics are relatable and so darn hard to get out of your head.

More After the Cut!

Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Apr 24 2012
1 Comment
Album Review

Album Review: Jason Mraz – Love Is a Four Letter Word

“It’s not hard for me to love you”

Source: Google Images

Peace. Love. Happiness. Finding melodies that truly illustrate these words in their purest form can sometimes be hard to find. An artist willing to share their own story of success – to be able to achieve what we all desire in our lifetime – can be even more of a rarity. Anyone can write a love song. Yet there is something about the way Jason Mraz combines his authentic lyrics and intricate strains of music that generates clear, raw emotion. He writes honestly – like a man in love, at a point in his life where every piece of the puzzle finally fits together. He creates a world with this album, where mankind has moved into a state of tranquility, where every soul holds hands and sings the song inside their heart. You want to live there, if only for just a day. Gone is the gritty realism we’d come to expect from our favorite curbside prophet. In its place lies the laid back, mellow side of Jason Mraz.

Love Is a Four Letter Word is the next chapter from Mr. A-Z, this being his fourth studio album. Die hard fans – that would be me – have been fervently waiting for this highly anticipated record since 2008′s We Sing, We Dance, We Steal Things.

When you first listen to the album, you will unmistakably notice the mixture of styles, an amalgamation of Mraz’s previous recordings. The artist has evolved, providing us with something discrete, though distinctly intertwined with a sense of familiarity. The vocals are outstanding, but why would we expect anything different? Those looking for the contrast of integrated Pop/Rock style, like Mraz’s first two records, might be disappointed. The album is primarily Pop. Nevertheless, I have to commend Mraz for always bringing something unique and unknown to us each and every time. Admittedly, the record takes a few listens to truly comprehend. In the end, you’ll find the repetition, undoubtedly, worth your time.

As always, I want to hear what you have to say about the album. Head down to the comments and write down your thoughts. I’ll be there in just a minute. For now, how about a track-by-track review?

More After the Cut!

Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Nov 08 2011
144 Comments
Album Review

Album Review: Florence + The Machine – Ceremonials

“And I did cartwheels in your honour. Dancing on tiptoes; my own secret ceremonials”

Source: Google Images

When you first sit down and listen to Ceremonials, there is a blissful moment when you realize you’re not in Kansas anymore. You’ve been transported to some strange and wonderful dreamlike location; where ghosts roam the streets, lovers embrace and break into song, and Florence Welch looks down upon you from her majestic tree. There is no other place like it. You want to be there. You want to keep Florence in your pocket and have her sing you lullabies. Or maybe, that’s just me?

With the follow-up to their 2009 debut album, Lungs, Florence + The Machine (once again) present us with a dazzling and strong record we will be talking about endlessly. Songstress, Florence Welch, explores the deepest of emotion with intense poetic lyrics and her passionate, powerful voice. Alongside, The Machine create a vigorous performance, giving life to the each and every song.

Ceremonials is a delightful departure from her first album, combining the best bits and pieces from what we loved so much about Lungs, and fusing those with something new and original. Nothing is as you expect. This album is a seamless puzzle of varied styles of music and voices, perfectly pieced together.

More After The Cut!

Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Oct 11 2011
2 Comments
Album Review

Album Review: Jack’s Mannequin – People and Things

“Keep your eyes on the road, on the Glass Passenger. He sings for a traveling band.”

Source: Google Images

Debuting their third studio album, Jack’s Mannequin has once again, brought us back to a place we love and remember so fondly. It’s great to be here again, isn’t it? With a new, but delightfully familiar sound, People and Things is the latest creation of melodies & lyrics from our friend and resident musical genius, Andrew McMahon. For fans, People and Things will be a surprising fusion of the easy, rock & pop inspired Everything in Transit and the powerful & personal journey of The Glass Passenger. It will be easy to recognize the usual flawless execution Andrew presents with each and every song he writes. Saying that, I’ve now had a week to break down the lyrics and phrasing – the melodies and the comforting refrains. I’ve listened to each song countless times. I’ve written ‘I love Andrew’ on all my notebooks (Not true, but the sentiment is there). I can honestly say, that whether or not you’re a fan, there is no doubt this album is an exceptionally crafted musical voyage you will instantly fall in love with. The thing that will bring you back time and time again, is the recognition that every Jack’s Mannequin song has a voice; each selection is unique and noteworthy.

Amy, I has to be my favorite song on the record and another classic Jack’s Mannequin track. I have no doubt this is one tune that will have audiences singing along at every show. The song is an exceptional addition to People and Things. Tracks like Television and Release Me also confirm Andrew’s success at writing heartfelt, endearing hooks.

More Music After The Cut!

Tagged , , , , ,
Feb 08 2011
2 Comments
Album Review

Album Review: Bobby Long – A Winter Tale

“I heard a lonely voice cut through the rain”

If you find yourself listening to an album and unable to decide exactly which song is your favorite, you know you possess something invaluable. I’ve been a fan of Bobby Long’s for a couple of years and he always manages to surprise me. Now, with his debut album, I find myself completely amazed.

To go from warm acoustic songs like Dead and Done (Currently my #1 favorite on the album), to the electric and vivid A Winter Tale, it’s something few people could pull off successfully. Bobby manages to transition from one form to another almost seamlessly.

To already established fans, this album will seem like a wonderful trip down memory lane with previously released tracks like the sweet and rich The Bounty of Mary Jane and the English-folk inspired Being a Mockingbird, both rejuvenated for the record. While newcomers will be pleasantly surprised by the raspy, swoon worthy sound of the young Brit’s raw and genuine voice singing Who Have You Been Loving, a bluesy and noteworthy addition.

One of the most unforgettable standouts on the album is the poetic, soulful ballad Two Tone Lover. A pristine piano melody, sweet background vocals, and a lively horn section complete this charming tune. “Cause I’m a two tone lover, I’ll drop a heart for the change, And the hole’s been dug in my heart, sweet darlin’, Take them down to your road, to your road, And they’ll know not to want you.”

More After The Cut!

Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Oct 12 2010
3 Comments
Album Review

Album Review: KT Tunstall – Tiger Suit

The Entertainer

KT Tunstall - Tiger Suit - Album CoverThree albums later, and KT Tunstall is still the indie pop rock goddess we all remember. After a week of going through each song, picking out my favorites, and then listening the album in its entirety, I quite possibly think that Tiger Suit is my favorite KT album. It’s a little hipper (synthesizers included), more danceable (See Madame Trudeaux), yet still has that signature style that KT Tunstall brings to all her albums.

Yes, there’s less of that rugged guitar sound that we all loved from her debut album Eye to the Telescope. That’s true. But, I dare you to listen to this album and not hear that style, voice, and great songwriting we all heard with Telescope. The truth is that songwriters evolve. They push the limit. They try new things. They experiment. In my opinion, this experiment paid off. Tiger Suit is not purely rock, or purely pop. It’s a true infusion of the two, with a sprinkling of dance beats on top.

For you first listen, I always suggest listening to it in the order it was presented. It’s has an order for a reason. Listening to a new album all the way through, without interruptions (Switching song, etc), is the best way to experience how the artist wanted you to hear it.

Your first introduction, is Uummannaq Song. With the mix of background vocals, tambourine, and guitar, it is one of my favorites on the album. Heck, there all my favorites, but this one is the start of everything. If you listen to the album, you go on a journey. Unmmannaq song, is resistance and acceptance to a new life. Then the high energy and synth eccentric Glamour Puss, is a look into the new people and life around you. You might not get this the first time around. As I always say, you have to listen to the music over and over again (Like anything) to really get its meaning. Of course, I could be totally wrong, but you decide.

More After The Cut!

Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Sep 28 2010
Leave a comment
Album Review

Album Review: Maroon 5 – Hands All Over

“This love” is turning into “Misery“

I remember when I bought my first Maroon 5 CD (Songs About Jane). It was 2002. It was a time where the online music store didn’t exist (At least not for me); and you were forced to buy over priced plastic covers and discs at Best Buy. I was a sophomore in High School and Nsync still ruled my world. But Maroon 5 was different. They said the F word in one of their songs. They were pure rock. It was wonderful.

Now it’s 2010. I’m way, way out of High School and indie alternative music gets me through the long day. But Maroon 5 is different. They’re a little older, they’re a little less angry, and a lot more pop. I was very surprised at this album. It’s not really the Maroon 5 I remember, and yet it is (It’s a contradiction, I know).

Their rock tone is now covered with heavy synth, a pop base, and less than inventive lyrics. Yet, there’s still that catchy love, sex, and violence tone that is definitely Maroon 5. I can’t say that I hated the album, because I didn’t. I can’t say that I loved the album, because I didn’t. I’m really impartial. There are songs that I really love. And songs that I didn’t like so much.

The songs that I loved were obviously the more rock influenced than the more pop melodies. Misery, the first single, is reminiscent of the “This Love” era and their original alternative rock sound. The catchy and danceable tune is probably the best on the album. Stutter and Hands All Over are the other standouts on the album. Hands All Over has that funk and soul, rock inspired tone. The obsessive sex and love lyrics are reminiscent of the Adam Levine we all know. While Stutter has the same lyrical tone, this song is more light and fluffy.

More After The Cut!

Tagged , , , , , , , , ,
← Older posts
Follow

Get every new post delivered to your Inbox.

Join 143 other followers