Pure pop for non-dancing people
08/02/2002
(4 out of 5 stars)
"I'm pretty much madly in love with "Between Two Islands." It's lump-in-the-throat gorgeous, and I can't believe the Boys decided to leave it off RELEASE. As good as most everything on RELEASE is, "Between Two Islands" is even better. "Searching For The Face Of Jesus" doesn't quite live up to its intriguing title, but it's a pleasant listen nonetheless. Musically, it sounds a bit like Prefab Sprout. There are a number of references to Elvis in the lyrics. Neil sings in his "high" (falsetto) voice here, but doesn't quite pull it off with his usual finesse.The "I Get Along" video? Well, it's typical Bruce Weber stuff: lots of pretty young flesh on display."
OK Single from the PSB
Westley | Stuck in my head | 08/15/2002
(4 out of 5 stars)
""I Get Along" is a pretty good single, although it is not one of my favorites from their recent "Release" CD. It's much poppier than most of their past singles, and many people have compared the sound to the Beatles or Oasis, which is pretty accurate. Apparently, the lyrics concern the rift between British Prime Minister Tony Blair and one of his cabinet members. UK listeners may understand that reference, but fortunately, the song is so well-written that it seems to apply to any kind of relationship. Overall, the song is stronger than most pop songs being played today. Now on to the eagerly anticipated B-sides...unfortunately, those fall a bit flat. "Searching for the Face of Jesus" is a rather anemic mid-tempo ballad that chugs along nicely, but really goes nowhere (and don't ask me what the lyrics mean, because I have no idea). "Between Two Islands" is much better. It's a mid-tempo pop song with Spanish-style guitars on it. The song ends on a particularly strong note when Neil weaves in lyrics from Marvin Gaye's "I Want You." However, it is a bit sad to hear a PSB song that needs a sample to be more interesting. Overall, this CD is well worth the price, even though it is not up to par with the PSB's singles collection. Completists, such as myself, will likely be quite satisfied."
Not Their Best, but It's Still Impressive.
The Groove | Boston, MA | 08/08/2002
(4 out of 5 stars)
"The second single from PSB's "Release" album finds our hero, Neil Tennant, about to dump a cheating lover who'd "rather be with rock royalty." Musically, this Beatles-inspired ditty sounds more appropriate on an Oasis album than from a duo that's known for their synth-heavy hits. But the lyrics are heartfelt without being wimpy; and they have none of the Ricki Lake nonesense you'd find from lesser artists. "I Get Along" also has the video and two b-sides, the better of which is "Between Two Islands," a tale of unrequieted love underscored by Neil's nasal delivery. While it's nice to see these guys drop the synths and take on new musical challenges, I do miss the PSB that wrote and produced dance-oriented singles. Until they decide to return to their electronic roots, this decent single will do."
Track Listings (4) - Disc #1