Search - I Mother Earth :: Scenery & Fish

Take In The Scenery!

Raine Willful | Canada | 06/21/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This sophomore effort by I Mother Earth is the most popular release by either IME or its former vocalist Edwin, and it's easy to see why. This is one of those unforgettable albums that stays strong from start to finish, and sticks with you long after you've finished listening. While its predecessor, Dig, focused more on a harder-edged alternative sound, Scenery and Fish is post-grunge rock at its best, during the prime of post-grunge.The band takes traditional song structures and either throws them aside or adds more meat to them, thus making the songs more interesting and stripping them of predictability. The IME-trademark jams are less about blistering musicianship this time and more about taking you on a journey to some other place, only to deposit you right back into the song. Vocalist Edwin does more singing and less yelling on this album, and the result is some sticky pop melodies. Guitarist Jagori Tanna writes music that is more diverse and experimental than the previous album, yet still ear-candy. He and bassist Bruce Gordon continue their uniquely layered sound, but with less emphasis on aggression and more on creating distinct (and occasionally trippy) songs with their own identities, yet still catchy and still completely rock. The percussive elements are more understated than on Dig, and Christian Tanna's drumming is less frenetic, but equally skillful. His psychedelic-poetic lyrics are strangely catchy here as well.Overall, Scenery and Fish could be described as a summertime, top-down driving album. While it does not have the raw desire of Dig running through it, it is much more polished. As mentioned, there is not one disappointing song on the album, and while there are a few songs on Dig that could be considered better, the Scenery and Fish album as a whole is stronger."

Awesome

Nevin Lau | Burnaby, home of Joe Sakic | 06/15/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"More accessible than their debut album "Dig", this sophomore album has got it all. From catchy rhytmic melodies to extended guitar solos. There is no particular weak spot on this album as it is fairly strong all the way from start to finish. Edwin's vocals are as strong as they've ever been, to support the "spacey" lyrics. The most impressive thing about the album is the wealth of guitar tones Jagori Tanna is able to produce here. Very entertaining and interesting. This album my seem like a bore at first, but after a few listens, you'll hear how great this album truely is."

4.7 Top of their Genre

Don C | Albany, NY | 06/24/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This CD, in my opinion, is a 90's masterpiece. While not trying to jump on the grunge movement, IME were impecable musicians. They were not affriad to write the 6+ minute sonic charges that compose part of this cd and its predecessor 'Dig'.

This album much outclasses their first. The initial 2 tracks of 'Like a Girl' and '...Astronaut' start the cd brilliantly with their accesibility and hooks. Excellent mix and production only help distinguish the instruments and the moodiness of Edwin's vocal style, which is top notch.



They go through track after track with melody and power, i wont break down each but all are great tracks executed well with some stellar guitar work. They slow it down toward the end of the CD with 2 of the best tracks of 'Songburst and Delirium' and the dramatically infectious 'Sense of Henry'. Both tracks take a few listens but are just excellent. The latter featuring awesome vocals from Edwin who left after this release to persue a more straight laced solo career.



All tracks serve a purpose so their are no fillers and the whole CD has a loose based concept. But by no means does it always have to be played in its entirety.



I am late in writing this review since they have been gone for a while, but in case anyone sees this somewhere and is curious, i can not recommend this CD enough. Yet another band who was not given their due. The best part is the way they were mixing their progressive style with great hooks. A feat no easy to accomplish. Too bad the bottom fell out for them. This CD is an A+ and a gem. Rediculously priced as well.. Shame. If you see this used and dont waste your chump change than their is no saving you.

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