Search - Simon Joyner :: Hotel Lives

A measure of corrective

Frank A. Perna | Pennsylvania, in the culture-free zone | 03/31/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"the arrangements on this disc are minimal and hauntingly beautiful; while unobtrusive, they buoy this dark and depressing music up, making it almost transcendant at times. simon's lyrics are some of the few that look almost as good on the page as they are in the song. the man could write genuine poetry; and i am aware of the rigorous linguistic discipline that will imply for some. As for his voice- if you like the mechanical, technically proficient, character free voices you get in most music, stay away from this one. It wasn't made for you. If you enjoy the likes of will oldham or tom waits, then simon's off-key but emotionally expressive voice ought pose no problem. the only problem with this disc might be it's length, and the monotony of having all slow songs. taken in chunks though, all the songs are excellent, and some crystal-clear and haunting like few things i've heard.the knobs that gave it one star really must be ignored."

Don't listen to any person that gives this below 4

doug | Rocky River, Ohio United States | 05/22/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This album is definitely not for everyone, but if you really do listen to the man's music and listen to what he saying you really should appreciate this album for the classic that it is. He is just a very talented songwriter, probably one of the most talented that records right now and for someone to say any less shows what they really know about music. I can see though that if someone came to buy this cd and didn't like it than that is fine, but to say that it merits 1 star is truly an atrocity. If you are looking for uplifting music than you have come to the wrong place. If you are looking for a guy to rock out you have come to the wrong place and if you are looking for a person to have a breath taking voice than simply don't buy this record. But if you want a record with very good songwriting and arrangements and a rough voice than you must go no further as Simon Joyner is your man."