Favorite CD of 2004
B. Bryan | 01/03/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Context: I own 2000+ CDs. I have never written an Amazon review.
This is quite simply my favorite release of 2004. It's a beautiful left of center pop opera. Aspects of it remind me of the Eels' Electro-Shock Blues (major compliment). Throw in a bit of Neil Finn, a few ethnic flavors, a bit of electronica. After 2000 CD's, I have become a bit jaded towards music. NPLS takes me back to the innocence I remember when I first listened to Pink Floyd's The Wall. And the snob in me loves the fact that I had never heard of Paul Brill before seeing a review in allmusic.com. My hope is that this review will get a few more people familiar with his name and music. Wonderful album..."
Unpopular sounding pop
D. R Smyers | dallas, tx United States | 10/22/2004
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Great, moody, depressive pop with cool instrumentation and honest feelings. This is by far his best record. The opening cut is a classic and the rest falls in line. Finally a pop record that I can stomach. Music this rich in texture and emotion should be more widely heard."
Great! Elliot Smith meets Wilco
Manny Hernandez | Bay Area, CA | 04/18/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"In spite of the occasional somber nature of his music, Paul Brill is one of those artists one can be happy to find out about. He balances lyrics that fly way beyond the superficiality of most of today's pop with a seductive sound that sticks with you, sounding like something of a blend between Wilco and Elliot Smith.
From the opening "Weekday Bender" you know you're listening to an album that will live a very long life, an album larger than life, and yet so deeply rooted into what we're all about. When I first got to "Everything I Believe In" I thought I was listening to Radiohead's Tom Yorke. Then you listen to the powerful "Comeback Kid" and you realize that Paul Brill defies almost all comparisons, since he flies by a host of moods and brings an assortment of different sounds into his mix. The one common thread throughout the album is a solid production and sound, and the thought-provoking lyrics.
Bottom line, if you haven't checked out "New Pagan Love Song", do yourself a favor, and pick it up. It may be the best thing to happen to you in a while."