Vastly different than last effort-good pop
ted offensive | pacifica, california United States | 09/20/2008
(4 out of 5 stars)
"I'd heard the bass player (Kipplenger?) say in an interview that this album would be much lighter in tone than the last (love is the new hate), which was largely fueled by anger about the wars in the middle-east. It is. There seems to me to be more than a little Midnight Oil influence. I mean, I would have conjured up the comparison without knowing that they are both from down-under nations.
I am a rocker, by nature, so I can't say I wasn't disappointed; but, in fairness, these are all still well written, smart, and artful songs. It just sort of baffles me that the same band can produce the range of styles and textures this band has, over their history. This is another reason I still rate this effort so highly, but, if you're expecting anything in the same realm as "empty shell" (and bound to such a style)- wait for their next release. Who knows?
To the band...wow! You guys are truly remarkable chameleons. Keep me guessing- I like that!
ted o.
ventura, ca. 9/08"