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 Product Description
To say there has been a lot of anticipation for Coldplay's fourth album, Viva La Vida, is an understatement. Having enlisted legendary leftfield producer Brian Eno, borrowed their album title from a painting by renowned Mexican artist Frida Kahlo and made tantalising remarks about sonic reinvention, the world has been curious (to say the least) to hear what the `new' Coldplay might sound like. Viva La Vida definitely makes some departures from the band's usual formula, which happens to be one of the most commercially successful rock-pop blueprints of recent years. The plangent chords, emotive melodies, stadium-rock rhythms and universal lyrical concerns remain, but Martin and co. have gone out on several limbs here, incorporating instrumental tracks ("Life In Technicolour"), using subtle North African and Latin elements ("Yes", "Strawberry Swing"), and overhauling previously strict verse-chorus-verse structures in favour of slightly more avant arrangements. The old Coldplay still shine through (see tracks like "Violet Hill" and the title song) but even their classic sound feels more muscular and confident. The band's new flourishes, cosmetic and self-conscious as they may be, are enough to make Viva La Vida a welcome break from the old routine--Danny McKenna
Customer Reviews
Empty and vile, 24 Aug 2008
The absence of everything spontaneous, beautiful and courageous in music. Cod poetry mired down by turgid dirgery with all the wit and sophistication of a rotten cat dropping.
Some posh boy warbles unconvincingly over U2's sub-Bsides and expects the world to be saved while I boak heartily into a straw boater.
Music for people with no love for music and no clue about life.
Their best yet, 24 Aug 2008
I haven't always liked Coldplay. Parachutes I could take or leave (and generally left). 'Rush of Blood' was good in parts but only really 'The Scientist' and 'Warning Sign' have lasted for me. 'X and Y' attended to their main fault - a lack of variety in building a melody - and also gave us sound washes, instumental development and nearly sixty minutes of sound.
Viva La Vida (a much shorter work) has attended to most of their remaining weaknesses and come up with their first classic pop/rock album that can be enjoyed as a whole. The lyrics are less pretentious - the title track even manages to be witty - and the songs are tidier and organised; they all tell their own particular story in music and lyrics. Critically the instrumentation has real variety with the percussion particularly good. Meanwhile Chris Martin's vocals have matured allowing most melody lines to range well over one octave.
The conceit of 'Fix You' ie two competing musical ideas on one particular track is arguably done to death but there is really not a single weak contribution here.
Just give it time..., 22 Aug 2008
This is Coldplay, but with a bit of a twist. I doubt these guys want to create an album that sounds generically similar every time they decide to release a collection of tracks.
So what's the big fuss, and why is everyone having a go at them? Is it because it's Coldplay and it's 'cool' to criticise them? Or is it because they are boring and dull and unimaginative? Or is it because all of their stuff sounds similar?
On the last few counts, I can say that 'Viva La Vida' is NOT boring and NOT dull. Neither is it unimaginative. It is probably the most diverse record Coldplay have produced...but does that necessarily mean that it's their best?
Flip a coin.
On one side, you have the critics who hate it for not being Coldplay - too different, too experimental, too 'bits and pieces'.
On the other hand, you have the people who enjoy it for being a diverse record, with plenty of variety shown in the songs in structure and in how they sound.
I admit myself, it's the kind of record that grows on you. They do say that the best records tend to do so.
'Viva La Vida' is a great album. And it's great because Coldplay create wonderful music.
The standout tracks are: 'Lost!', '42', 'Lovers in Japan', 'Violet Hill', and the title-track, 'Viva La Vida'.
However, there isn't one bad track on it, despite many people dismissing the album. Other tracks, 'Life in Technicolor', 'Cemeteries of London', 'Yes', 'Strawberry Swing', and 'Death and All of His Friends' are good, but don't grab you by the scruff of the neck and beg for your listening attention.
Maybe we take Coldplay for granted. They create excellent music, but some people fail to recognize this. They perceive them as dull and unimaginative. But 'Viva La Vida' is anything but. It is the bravest Coldplay album yet. And quite possibly one of the best, if only because of that. 8/10.
Coldplay deliver once again - the best British band of the Noughties, 19 Aug 2008
How can you argue with this band and their success so far? And before people think I just happen to be a sheep, I found Coldplay's Trouble and Yellow abhorrent. I was not convinced at all. However, I just love Coldplay's work from Parachutes (the two singles excepted) through to this latest installment. This is not an X&Y and is different thanks to the very positive influence of Brian Eno, a magician in his own right. The first 3 tracks just glide you through the listening experience but I struggle with 'Yes'. It is quite different from a typical Coldplay melody and reminds me of the French ambient/rock band, M83. Maybe that's a good thing. Not for me though. However, the two chart hits are just fantastic and uplifting. Not convinced by Strawberry Swing either but I like the way the album finishes. So what have we got then? Just another Coldplay album or have they tried something a little different? Indeed they have and for that they should be applauded as they attempt to evolve. As an album it works very well and it holds CD 4 in my car and will do so for a while. I can't give it 5 stars, it's just not as good as Parachutes for me but it's still a very good album. Don't denigrate, just appreciate.
Best Coldplay Album By Far, 11 Aug 2008
I have taken time to listen to the new Coldplay album several times since its release. There is no denying that this album is far more experimental than the first three albums and moves away from the bands pop/rock songs based around basic chords. The meat of the album is vedged between a very catchy intro and outro which compliment the new style very well.
Initially i found the lyrics on the album a little simple in places but as i listened more, i realised that it may be a small price the band has paid for pushing the content of the songs into new subject areas. A good example of this is the title track 'Viva La Vida' which encapsulates the front cover and speaks of revolution and the trials and tribulations of being a king.
Standout tracks for me are 'Yes', 'Lost' and the very radiohead-esque '42' but to be honest there isn't a bad track on the album.
Overall, the album solidifies Coldplays status as one of the driving cogs in British music at the moment. While many bands continue to stumble along and produce continuous streams of 'safe' music, Coldplay have turned their music in a new direction and made a brilliant go of it.
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The Script
Usually dispatched within 1-2 business days
*Best price found from Amazon Marketplace seller
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*Amazon: £7.23
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Customer Reviews
Empty and vile, 24 Aug 2008
The absence of everything spontaneous, beautiful and courageous in music. Cod poetry mired down by turgid dirgery with all the wit and sophistication of a rotten cat dropping.
Some posh boy warbles unconvincingly over U2's sub-Bsides and expects the world to be saved while I boak heartily into a straw boater.
Music for people with no love for music and no clue about life.
Their best yet, 24 Aug 2008
I haven't always liked Coldplay. Parachutes I could take or leave (and generally left). 'Rush of Blood' was good in parts but only really 'The Scientist' and 'Warning Sign' have lasted for me. 'X and Y' attended to their main fault - a lack of variety in building a melody - and also gave us sound washes, instumental development and nearly sixty minutes of sound.
Viva La Vida (a much shorter work) has attended to most of their remaining weaknesses and come up with their first classic pop/rock album that can be enjoyed as a whole. The lyrics are less pretentious - the title track even manages to be witty - and the songs are tidier and organised; they all tell their own particular story in music and lyrics. Critically the instrumentation has real variety with the percussion particularly good. Meanwhile Chris Martin's vocals have matured allowing most melody lines to range well over one octave.
The conceit of 'Fix You' ie two competing musical ideas on one particular track is arguably done to death but there is really not a single weak contribution here.
Just give it time..., 22 Aug 2008
This is Coldplay, but with a bit of a twist. I doubt these guys want to create an album that sounds generically similar every time they decide to release a collection of tracks.
So what's the big fuss, and why is everyone having a go at them? Is it because it's Coldplay and it's 'cool' to criticise them? Or is it because they are boring and dull and unimaginative? Or is it because all of their stuff sounds similar?
On the last few counts, I can say that 'Viva La Vida' is NOT boring and NOT dull. Neither is it unimaginative. It is probably the most diverse record Coldplay have produced...but does that necessarily mean that it's their best?
Flip a coin.
On one side, you have the critics who hate it for not being Coldplay - too different, too experimental, too 'bits and pieces'.
On the other hand, you have the people who enjoy it for being a diverse record, with plenty of variety shown in the songs in structure and in how they sound.
I admit myself, it's the kind of record that grows on you. They do say that the best records tend to do so.
'Viva La Vida' is a great album. And it's great because Coldplay create wonderful music.
The standout tracks are: 'Lost!', '42', 'Lovers in Japan', 'Violet Hill', and the title-track, 'Viva La Vida'.
However, there isn't one bad track on it, despite many people dismissing the album. Other tracks, 'Life in Technicolor', 'Cemeteries of London', 'Yes', 'Strawberry Swing', and 'Death and All of His Friends' are good, but don't grab you by the scruff of the neck and beg for your listening attention.
Maybe we take Coldplay for granted. They create excellent music, but some people fail to recognize this. They perceive them as dull and unimaginative. But 'Viva La Vida' is anything but. It is the bravest Coldplay album yet. And quite possibly one of the best, if only because of that. 8/10.
Coldplay deliver once again - the best British band of the Noughties, 19 Aug 2008
How can you argue with this band and their success so far? And before people think I just happen to be a sheep, I found Coldplay's Trouble and Yellow abhorrent. I was not convinced at all. However, I just love Coldplay's work from Parachutes (the two singles excepted) through to this latest installment. This is not an X&Y and is different thanks to the very positive influence of Brian Eno, a magician in his own right. The first 3 tracks just glide you through the listening experience but I struggle with 'Yes'. It is quite different from a typical Coldplay melody and reminds me of the French ambient/rock band, M83. Maybe that's a good thing. Not for me though. However, the two chart hits are just fantastic and uplifting. Not convinced by Strawberry Swing either but I like the way the album finishes. So what have we got then? Just another Coldplay album or have they tried something a little different? Indeed they have and for that they should be applauded as they attempt to evolve. As an album it works very well and it holds CD 4 in my car and will do so for a while. I can't give it 5 stars, it's just not as good as Parachutes for me but it's still a very good album. Don't denigrate, just appreciate.
Best Coldplay Album By Far, 11 Aug 2008
I have taken time to listen to the new Coldplay album several times since its release. There is no denying that this album is far more experimental than the first three albums and moves away from the bands pop/rock songs based around basic chords. The meat of the album is vedged between a very catchy intro and outro which compliment the new style very well.
Initially i found the lyrics on the album a little simple in places but as i listened more, i realised that it may be a small price the band has paid for pushing the content of the songs into new subject areas. A good example of this is the title track 'Viva La Vida' which encapsulates the front cover and speaks of revolution and the trials and tribulations of being a king.
Standout tracks for me are 'Yes', 'Lost' and the very radiohead-esque '42' but to be honest there isn't a bad track on the album.
Overall, the album solidifies Coldplays status as one of the driving cogs in British music at the moment. While many bands continue to stumble along and produce continuous streams of 'safe' music, Coldplay have turned their music in a new direction and made a brilliant go of it.
The new Maroon 5, 26 Aug 2008
A friend put this on, and after all the hype I was expecting something far far better than this! I take no pleasure in knocking new music, it's just that this really is tedious generic mush. If you like Maroon 5 I'm sure you'll love it! However, if you're reading this thinking The Script might be the next great guitar band of the year, rest assured they are not.
My tip is to avoid wasting your money here and instead buy an album by a band worthy of your time and money...buy Midnight Organ Fight by Frightened Rabbit. Trust me you'll thank me!
dosen't break any new boundries, 16 Aug 2008
I have listened to this album a dozen times now. It is engaging enough but it dosen't break any new boundries, in fact quite the opposite. The Script take the best elements from some of the most acclaimed artists (Sting, Paulo Nutini) but fail to create a mould of its own. At times i was left pleading with the guitarist to become more aggressive, or come to that any of the musicians to stamp thier mark and not just provide backing music to the lead vocals. I can not see this band recording 3 albums unless they have the guts to express themselves more openly and challange the only real talent on show...the vocals
Irish Charm, 13 Aug 2008
I just got this album and listened to it on repeat because I was so blown away by how good it is.
Danny has a beautiful voice and the slick production makes it very polished.
My current favourite song is probably "Fall for Anything".
And the lyrics are accessible,being able to relate them to personal experiences.
All in all, a fantasticalbum and I cannot wait to see them live=]
An amazing debut set, full of quality , 12 Aug 2008
Ireland's own The Script's debut self-titled album is one of the best debut efforts in a long while. With their unique and fantastic mix of Pop, Rock, R'n'B and Soul, they are able to connect great melodies and meaningful, strong lyrics with their listener.
As they hit the Top 20 [Top 10 Ireland] with their first single, the atonishing "We Cry," they received considerate praise from the public, critics and press alike, but it wasn't until the second hit, the beautiful, moving [no pun intended, haha!] "The Man Who Can't Be Moved," which has [so far] hit Top 3 in both the UK & Ireland that they hit the big time.
And everybody who loved those two songs should be completely interested in this incredible album. The majority of songs about broken relationships, one and almost everybody can relate to the songs somehow or another, which makes it all the more better. My personal favourites - aside from the two singles releases - are "Breakeven," in which a guy struggles to move on from his past lover - who has already done so, and is now with someone else, "Rusty Halo," which describes [from what I interpretate] a character who has been through a tough time for so long and it's now time for them to move on and shine, and finally "Fall For Anything" in which advice is given to a girl who is being brought down by a group of people, but is too naive and "falls for anything" they say.
Overall, all eleven tracks are brilliant; this emotional, fascinating and inspirational musical experience certainly isn't one which should be missed. Oh, and they also clearly put a lot of thought into the brilliant artwork too. If that's not enough, the set is also presented on Open Disc, which allows the listener to access bonus features such as video footage, extra audio footage, a question & answer section, photo gallery and more. The quote that they are "one of the most talked about bands of 2008" really lives up to its name; as I'm sure the album will hit number one in Ireland this Friday, it's also set for number one in the UK with sales of 17,000 units sold in its first day. Follow those 17,000 people. Buy it.
[P.S. again, this is G W Hope's son reviewing.]
Unsurprisingly disappointing., 12 Aug 2008
After the hammering Radio 1 and Radio 2 have given 'The Man Who Can't Be Moved' my curisoity was piqued and I quickly snapped up this CD. It soon became clear that this is nothing special. Along with the likes of The Last Goodbye, OneRepublic, and Maroon 5 it's just far to generic. The latest single is good, not excellent, and so I found myself falling into the trap of buying an album based on one song, again. There are few redeeming qualities, lyrics rather dull, production OTT, vocals average - cover art is nice though. My CD has since been put on an auction website.
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Forth
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The Verve;
Parlophone;
2008-08-25;
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Usually dispatched within 1-2 business days
*Best price found from Amazon Marketplace seller
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*Amazon: £7.95
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Customer Reviews
Empty and vile, 24 Aug 2008
The absence of everything spontaneous, beautiful and courageous in music. Cod poetry mired down by turgid dirgery with all the wit and sophistication of a rotten cat dropping.
Some posh boy warbles unconvincingly over U2's sub-Bsides and expects the world to be saved while I boak heartily into a straw boater.
Music for people with no love for music and no clue about life.
Their best yet, 24 Aug 2008
I haven't always liked Coldplay. Parachutes I could take or leave (and generally left). 'Rush of Blood' was good in parts but only really 'The Scientist' and 'Warning Sign' have lasted for me. 'X and Y' attended to their main fault - a lack of variety in building a melody - and also gave us sound washes, instumental development and nearly sixty minutes of sound.
Viva La Vida (a much shorter work) has attended to most of their remaining weaknesses and come up with their first classic pop/rock album that can be enjoyed as a whole. The lyrics are less pretentious - the title track even manages to be witty - and the songs are tidier and organised; they all tell their own particular story in music and lyrics. Critically the instrumentation has real variety with the percussion particularly good. Meanwhile Chris Martin's vocals have matured allowing most melody lines to range well over one octave.
The conceit of 'Fix You' ie two competing musical ideas on one particular track is arguably done to death but there is really not a single weak contribution here.
Just give it time..., 22 Aug 2008
This is Coldplay, but with a bit of a twist. I doubt these guys want to create an album that sounds generically similar every time they decide to release a collection of tracks.
So what's the big fuss, and why is everyone having a go at them? Is it because it's Coldplay and it's 'cool' to criticise them? Or is it because they are boring and dull and unimaginative? Or is it because all of their stuff sounds similar?
On the last few counts, I can say that 'Viva La Vida' is NOT boring and NOT dull. Neither is it unimaginative. It is probably the most diverse record Coldplay have produced...but does that necessarily mean that it's their best?
Flip a coin.
On one side, you have the critics who hate it for not being Coldplay - too different, too experimental, too 'bits and pieces'.
On the other hand, you have the people who enjoy it for being a diverse record, with plenty of variety shown in the songs in structure and in how they sound.
I admit myself, it's the kind of record that grows on you. They do say that the best records tend to do so.
'Viva La Vida' is a great album. And it's great because Coldplay create wonderful music.
The standout tracks are: 'Lost!', '42', 'Lovers in Japan', 'Violet Hill', and the title-track, 'Viva La Vida'.
However, there isn't one bad track on it, despite many people dismissing the album. Other tracks, 'Life in Technicolor', 'Cemeteries of London', 'Yes', 'Strawberry Swing', and 'Death and All of His Friends' are good, but don't grab you by the scruff of the neck and beg for your listening attention.
Maybe we take Coldplay for granted. They create excellent music, but some people fail to recognize this. They perceive them as dull and unimaginative. But 'Viva La Vida' is anything but. It is the bravest Coldplay album yet. And quite possibly one of the best, if only because of that. 8/10.
Coldplay deliver once again - the best British band of the Noughties, 19 Aug 2008
How can you argue with this band and their success so far? And before people think I just happen to be a sheep, I found Coldplay's Trouble and Yellow abhorrent. I was not convinced at all. However, I just love Coldplay's work from Parachutes (the two singles excepted) through to this latest installment. This is not an X&Y and is different thanks to the very positive influence of Brian Eno, a magician in his own right. The first 3 tracks just glide you through the listening experience but I struggle with 'Yes'. It is quite different from a typical Coldplay melody and reminds me of the French ambient/rock band, M83. Maybe that's a good thing. Not for me though. However, the two chart hits are just fantastic and uplifting. Not convinced by Strawberry Swing either but I like the way the album finishes. So what have we got then? Just another Coldplay album or have they tried something a little different? Indeed they have and for that they should be applauded as they attempt to evolve. As an album it works very well and it holds CD 4 in my car and will do so for a while. I can't give it 5 stars, it's just not as good as Parachutes for me but it's still a very good album. Don't denigrate, just appreciate.
Best Coldplay Album By Far, 11 Aug 2008
I have taken time to listen to the new Coldplay album several times since its release. There is no denying that this album is far more experimental than the first three albums and moves away from the bands pop/rock songs based around basic chords. The meat of the album is vedged between a very catchy intro and outro which compliment the new style very well.
Initially i found the lyrics on the album a little simple in places but as i listened more, i realised that it may be a small price the band has paid for pushing the content of the songs into new subject areas. A good example of this is the title track 'Viva La Vida' which encapsulates the front cover and speaks of revolution and the trials and tribulations of being a king.
Standout tracks for me are 'Yes', 'Lost' and the very radiohead-esque '42' but to be honest there isn't a bad track on the album.
Overall, the album solidifies Coldplays status as one of the driving cogs in British music at the moment. While many bands continue to stumble along and produce continuous streams of 'safe' music, Coldplay have turned their music in a new direction and made a brilliant go of it.
The new Maroon 5, 26 Aug 2008
A friend put this on, and after all the hype I was expecting something far far better than this! I take no pleasure in knocking new music, it's just that this really is tedious generic mush. If you like Maroon 5 I'm sure you'll love it! However, if you're reading this thinking The Script might be the next great guitar band of the year, rest assured they are not.
My tip is to avoid wasting your money here and instead buy an album by a band worthy of your time and money...buy Midnight Organ Fight by Frightened Rabbit. Trust me you'll thank me!
dosen't break any new boundries, 16 Aug 2008
I have listened to this album a dozen times now. It is engaging enough but it dosen't break any new boundries, in fact quite the opposite. The Script take the best elements from some of the most acclaimed artists (Sting, Paulo Nutini) but fail to create a mould of its own. At times i was left pleading with the guitarist to become more aggressive, or come to that any of the musicians to stamp thier mark and not just provide backing music to the lead vocals. I can not see this band recording 3 albums unless they have the guts to express themselves more openly and challange the only real talent on show...the vocals
Irish Charm, 13 Aug 2008
I just got this album and listened to it on repeat because I was so blown away by how good it is.
Danny has a beautiful voice and the slick production makes it very polished.
My current favourite song is probably "Fall for Anything".
And the lyrics are accessible,being able to relate them to personal experiences.
All in all, a fantasticalbum and I cannot wait to see them live=]
An amazing debut set, full of quality , 12 Aug 2008
Ireland's own The Script's debut self-titled album is one of the best debut efforts in a long while. With their unique and fantastic mix of Pop, Rock, R'n'B and Soul, they are able to connect great melodies and meaningful, strong lyrics with their listener.
As they hit the Top 20 [Top 10 Ireland] with their first single, the atonishing "We Cry," they received considerate praise from the public, critics and press alike, but it wasn't until the second hit, the beautiful, moving [no pun intended, haha!] "The Man Who Can't Be Moved," which has [so far] hit Top 3 in both the UK & Ireland that they hit the big time.
And everybody who loved those two songs should be completely interested in this incredible album. The majority of songs about broken relationships, one and almost everybody can relate to the songs somehow or another, which makes it all the more better. My personal favourites - aside from the two singles releases - are "Breakeven," in which a guy struggles to move on from his past lover - who has already done so, and is now with someone else, "Rusty Halo," which describes [from what I interpretate] a character who has been through a tough time for so long and it's now time for them to move on and shine, and finally "Fall For Anything" in which advice is given to a girl who is being brought down by a group of people, but is too naive and "falls for anything" they say.
Overall, all eleven tracks are brilliant; this emotional, fascinating and inspirational musical experience certainly isn't one which should be missed. Oh, and they also clearly put a lot of thought into the brilliant artwork too. If that's not enough, the set is also presented on Open Disc, which allows the listener to access bonus features such as video footage, extra audio footage, a question & answer section, photo gallery and more. The quote that they are "one of the most talked about bands of 2008" really lives up to its name; as I'm sure the album will hit number one in Ireland this Friday, it's also set for number one in the UK with sales of 17,000 units sold in its first day. Follow those 17,000 people. Buy it.
[P.S. again, this is G W Hope's son reviewing.]
Unsurprisingly disappointing., 12 Aug 2008
After the hammering Radio 1 and Radio 2 have given 'The Man Who Can't Be Moved' my curisoity was piqued and I quickly snapped up this CD. It soon became clear that this is nothing special. Along with the likes of The Last Goodbye, OneRepublic, and Maroon 5 it's just far to generic. The latest single is good, not excellent, and so I found myself falling into the trap of buying an album based on one song, again. There are few redeeming qualities, lyrics rather dull, production OTT, vocals average - cover art is nice though. My CD has since been put on an auction website.
Back to college for any one in the mid-late twenties!, 28 Aug 2008
I'll keep this straight forward and to the point as much as possible....
The Verve before 1999 have always had 2 sides. 1 side Nick McCabe...far out experimental guitar music....
Richard Ashcroft...Straight forward ballads/rock songs...
You could always tell a Richard Ashcroft song from a Verve song...example from the album a Northern soul the title track is a typical group composition whereas On your Own and History are obviously Ashcroft written songs...Urban Hymns...Neon Wilderness and Catching The Butterfly, both Verve written...Lucky Man,Sonnet...Ashcroft written. The evidence is there as to what I,m trying to say just look at the writing credits in the cd's!!
Now to Forth!! The 2 sides appears to be gone...it really sounds like the band are working together and combining both sides!!!
I won't go into details but list some highlights...Love Is Noise,just a blinding catchy song...Sit and Wonder a typical Verve song...Noise Epic...an amazing journey into why The Verve are so great...
If you like The Verve and always have done this will not dissapoint you...if you only like 1 or 2 of there songs....get the ones you like!
Four Stars... and a bit., 27 Aug 2008
I was never a Verve fan as such, but I have had Urban Hymns since its release and it's is one of my favourites. Forth is good but by no means great. It starts off well, the first few songs are excellent, particularly Rather Be and Love is Noise, but then it loses its way until the brilliant Valium Skies. So I give it four stars, were it not for the rather poor middle, I'd have happily given five stars. This is only my opinion, this one looks like one of those CD's that is 'like marmite', if you know what I mean.
Forth , 27 Aug 2008
Keepin this brief, Forth is a Top album, as good as all their others, standout tracks...
sit and wonder
love is noise
rather be
valium skies
appalachian springs
(BUY NOW GREAT ALBUM!)
A Bitter-Sweet Album, 27 Aug 2008
The album opens brilliantly with 'Sit and Wonder' and 'Love is Noise' rivalling the best Verve tracks. 'Rather Be' has the difficult task of following such strong songs but changes the tone of the album fluidly and is a good track in itself.
However the three mediocre songs of 'Judas', 'Numbness' (does exactly what it says on the tin) and 'I See Houses' follow and this is the major problem with this album. By the time these tracks are over you are left feeling bored and the album feeling dead and lifeless.
'Noise Epic' tries to pick up the tempo in typical Verve fashion and 'Valium Skies' is a hidden gem on this album. 'Mama Soul' and 'Appalachian Springs' finish the album off nicely but the album struggles to recover from its lacklustre middle section.
In conclusion there are some GREAT songs on here and the rest are mainly good but the few weak tracks have been allowed to dominate. I'd give this album 3.5 out of 5.
2 decent songs, a star each, 27 Aug 2008
I have all of The Verve's previous albums, from the seminal "A Storm in Heaven", through the superb "A Northern Soul" to the good but over-hyped "Urban Hymns". This is not a patch on any of them.
The many filler tracks hinted at on "Urban Hymns" have been expanded and watered-down even further to pad out this offering. The tough sonic soundscapes favoured by guitarist Nick McCabe in days gone by are all but absent here, where he is criminally underused. He has finally been relegated to Ashcroft's session man, making this lazy effort sound like another solo effort of his - no great thing.
The two standout tracks on the album - "Sit and Wonder" and "Love is Noise" - are the opening songs. Sadly it's all downhill from here on out. These two songs could have sat proudly on any previous album. For this reason alone "Forth" deserves 2 stars - 1 for each track.
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Peaceful The World Lays Me Down
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Noah And The Whale;
Universal;
2008-08-11;
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Usually dispatched within 1-2 business days
*Best price found from Amazon Marketplace seller
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*Amazon: £6.85
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Customer Reviews
Empty and vile, 24 Aug 2008
The absence of everything spontaneous, beautiful and courageous in music. Cod poetry mired down by turgid dirgery with all the wit and sophistication of a rotten cat dropping.
Some posh boy warbles unconvincingly over U2's sub-Bsides and expects the world to be saved while I boak heartily into a straw boater.
Music for people with no love for music and no clue about life.
Their best yet, 24 Aug 2008
I haven't always liked Coldplay. Parachutes I could take or leave (and generally left). 'Rush of Blood' was good in parts but only really 'The Scientist' and 'Warning Sign' have lasted for me. 'X and Y' attended to their main fault - a lack of variety in building a melody - and also gave us sound washes, instumental development and nearly sixty minutes of sound.
Viva La Vida (a much shorter work) has attended to most of their remaining weaknesses and come up with their first classic pop/rock album that can be enjoyed as a whole. The lyrics are less pretentious - the title track even manages to be witty - and the songs are tidier and organised; they all tell their own particular story in music and lyrics. Critically the instrumentation has real variety with the percussion particularly good. Meanwhile Chris Martin's vocals have matured allowing most melody lines to range well over one octave.
The conceit of 'Fix You' ie two competing musical ideas on one particular track is arguably done to death but there is really not a single weak contribution here.
Just give it time..., 22 Aug 2008
This is Coldplay, but with a bit of a twist. I doubt these guys want to create an album that sounds generically similar every time they decide to release a collection of tracks.
So what's the big fuss, and why is everyone having a go at them? Is it because it's Coldplay and it's 'cool' to criticise them? Or is it because they are boring and dull and unimaginative? Or is it because all of their stuff sounds similar?
On the last few counts, I can say that 'Viva La Vida' is NOT boring and NOT dull. Neither is it unimaginative. It is probably the most diverse record Coldplay have produced...but does that necessarily mean that it's their best?
Flip a coin.
On one side, you have the critics who hate it for not being Coldplay - too different, too experimental, too 'bits and pieces'.
On the other hand, you have the people who enjoy it for being a diverse record, with plenty of variety shown in the songs in structure and in how they sound.
I admit myself, it's the kind of record that grows on you. They do say that the best records tend to do so.
'Viva La Vida' is a great album. And it's great because Coldplay create wonderful music.
The standout tracks are: 'Lost!', '42', 'Lovers in Japan', 'Violet Hill', and the title-track, 'Viva La Vida'.
However, there isn't one bad track on it, despite many people dismissing the album. Other tracks, 'Life in Technicolor', 'Cemeteries of London', 'Yes', 'Strawberry Swing', and 'Death and All of His Friends' are good, but don't grab you by the scruff of the neck and beg for your listening attention.
Maybe we take Coldplay for granted. They create excellent music, but some people fail to recognize this. They perceive them as dull and unimaginative. But 'Viva La Vida' is anything but. It is the bravest Coldplay album yet. And quite possibly one of the best, if only because of that. 8/10.
Coldplay deliver once again - the best British band of the Noughties, 19 Aug 2008
How can you argue with this band and their success so far? And before people think I just happen to be a sheep, I found Coldplay's Trouble and Yellow abhorrent. I was not convinced at all. However, I just love Coldplay's work from Parachutes (the two singles excepted) through to this latest installment. This is not an X&Y and is different thanks to the very positive influence of Brian Eno, a magician in his own right. The first 3 tracks just glide you through the listening experience but I struggle with 'Yes'. It is quite different from a typical Coldplay melody and reminds me of the French ambient/rock band, M83. Maybe that's a good thing. Not for me though. However, the two chart hits are just fantastic and uplifting. Not convinced by Strawberry Swing either but I like the way the album finishes. So what have we got then? Just another Coldplay album or have they tried something a little different? Indeed they have and for that they should be applauded as they attempt to evolve. As an album it works very well and it holds CD 4 in my car and will do so for a while. I can't give it 5 stars, it's just not as good as Parachutes for me but it's still a very good album. Don't denigrate, just appreciate.
Best Coldplay Album By Far, 11 Aug 2008
I have taken time to listen to the new Coldplay album several times since its release. There is no denying that this album is far more experimental than the first three albums and moves away from the bands pop/rock songs based around basic chords. The meat of the album is vedged between a very catchy intro and outro which compliment the new style very well.
Initially i found the lyrics on the album a little simple in places but as i listened more, i realised that it may be a small price the band has paid for pushing the content of the songs into new subject areas. A good example of this is the title track 'Viva La Vida' which encapsulates the front cover and speaks of revolution and the trials and tribulations of being a king.
Standout tracks for me are 'Yes', 'Lost' and the very radiohead-esque '42' but to be honest there isn't a bad track on the album.
Overall, the album solidifies Coldplays status as one of the driving cogs in British music at the moment. While many bands continue to stumble along and produce continuous streams of 'safe' music, Coldplay have turned their music in a new direction and made a brilliant go of it.
The new Maroon 5, 26 Aug 2008
A friend put this on, and after all the hype I was expecting something far far better than this! I take no pleasure in knocking new music, it's just that this really is tedious generic mush. If you like Maroon 5 I'm sure you'll love it! However, if you're reading this thinking The Script might be the next great guitar band of the year, rest assured they are not.
My tip is to avoid wasting your money here and instead buy an album by a band worthy of your time and money...buy Midnight Organ Fight by Frightened Rabbit. Trust me you'll thank me!
dosen't break any new boundries, 16 Aug 2008
I have listened to this album a dozen times now. It is engaging enough but it dosen't break any new boundries, in fact quite the opposite. The Script take the best elements from some of the most acclaimed artists (Sting, Paulo Nutini) but fail to create a mould of its own. At times i was left pleading with the guitarist to become more aggressive, or come to that any of the musicians to stamp thier mark and not just provide backing music to the lead vocals. I can not see this band recording 3 albums unless they have the guts to express themselves more openly and challange the only real talent on show...the vocals
Irish Charm, 13 Aug 2008
I just got this album and listened to it on repeat because I was so blown away by how good it is.
Danny has a beautiful voice and the slick production makes it very polished.
My current favourite song is probably "Fall for Anything".
And the lyrics are accessible,being able to relate them to personal experiences.
All in all, a fantasticalbum and I cannot wait to see them live=]
An amazing debut set, full of quality , 12 Aug 2008
Ireland's own The Script's debut self-titled album is one of the best debut efforts in a long while. With their unique and fantastic mix of Pop, Rock, R'n'B and Soul, they are able to connect great melodies and meaningful, strong lyrics with their listener.
As they hit the Top 20 [Top 10 Ireland] with their first single, the atonishing "We Cry," they received considerate praise from the public, critics and press alike, but it wasn't until the second hit, the beautiful, moving [no pun intended, haha!] "The Man Who Can't Be Moved," which has [so far] hit Top 3 in both the UK & Ireland that they hit the big time.
And everybody who loved those two songs should be completely interested in this incredible album. The majority of songs about broken relationships, one and almost everybody can relate to the songs somehow or another, which makes it all the more better. My personal favourites - aside from the two singles releases - are "Breakeven," in which a guy struggles to move on from his past lover - who has already done so, and is now with someone else, "Rusty Halo," which describes [from what I interpretate] a character who has been through a tough time for so long and it's now time for them to move on and shine, and finally "Fall For Anything" in which advice is given to a girl who is being brought down by a group of people, but is too naive and "falls for anything" they say.
Overall, all eleven tracks are brilliant; this emotional, fascinating and inspirational musical experience certainly isn't one which should be missed. Oh, and they also clearly put a lot of thought into the brilliant artwork too. If that's not enough, the set is also presented on Open Disc, which allows the listener to access bonus features such as video footage, extra audio footage, a question & answer section, photo gallery and more. The quote that they are "one of the most talked about bands of 2008" really lives up to its name; as I'm sure the album will hit number one in Ireland this Friday, it's also set for number one in the UK with sales of 17,000 units sold in its first day. Follow those 17,000 people. Buy it.
[P.S. again, this is G W Hope's son reviewing.]
Unsurprisingly disappointing., 12 Aug 2008
After the hammering Radio 1 and Radio 2 have given 'The Man Who Can't Be Moved' my curisoity was piqued and I quickly snapped up this CD. It soon became clear that this is nothing special. Along with the likes of The Last Goodbye, OneRepublic, and Maroon 5 it's just far to generic. The latest single is good, not excellent, and so I found myself falling into the trap of buying an album based on one song, again. There are few redeeming qualities, lyrics rather dull, production OTT, vocals average - cover art is nice though. My CD has since been put on an auction website.
Back to college for any one in the mid-late twenties!, 28 Aug 2008
I'll keep this straight forward and to the point as much as possible....
The Verve before 1999 have always had 2 sides. 1 side Nick McCabe...far out experimental guitar music....
Richard Ashcroft...Straight forward ballads/rock songs...
You could always tell a Richard Ashcroft song from a Verve song...example from the album a Northern soul the title track is a typical group composition whereas On your Own and History are obviously Ashcroft written songs...Urban Hymns...Neon Wilderness and Catching The Butterfly, both Verve written...Lucky Man,Sonnet...Ashcroft written. The evidence is there as to what I,m trying to say just look at the writing credits in the cd's!!
Now to Forth!! The 2 sides appears to be gone...it really sounds like the band are working together and combining both sides!!!
I won't go into details but list some highlights...Love Is Noise,just a blinding catchy song...Sit and Wonder a typical Verve song...Noise Epic...an amazing journey into why The Verve are so great...
If you like The Verve and always have done this will not dissapoint you...if you only like 1 or 2 of there songs....get the ones you like!
Four Stars... and a bit., 27 Aug 2008
I was never a Verve fan as such, but I have had Urban Hymns since its release and it's is one of my favourites. Forth is good but by no means great. It starts off well, the first few songs are excellent, particularly Rather Be and Love is Noise, but then it loses its way until the brilliant Valium Skies. So I give it four stars, were it not for the rather poor middle, I'd have happily given five stars. This is only my opinion, this one looks like one of those CD's that is 'like marmite', if you know what I mean.
Forth , 27 Aug 2008
Keepin this brief, Forth is a Top album, as good as all their others, standout tracks...
sit and wonder
love is noise
rather be
valium skies
appalachian springs
(BUY NOW GREAT ALBUM!)
A Bitter-Sweet Album, 27 Aug 2008
The album opens brilliantly with 'Sit and Wonder' and 'Love is Noise' rivalling the best Verve tracks. 'Rather Be' has the difficult task of following such strong songs but changes the tone of the album fluidly and is a good track in itself.
However the three mediocre songs of 'Judas', 'Numbness' (does exactly what it says on the tin) and 'I See Houses' follow and this is the major problem with this album. By the time these tracks are over you are left feeling bored and the album feeling dead and lifeless.
'Noise Epic' tries to pick up the tempo in typical Verve fashion and 'Valium Skies' is a hidden gem on this album. 'Mama Soul' and 'Appalachian Springs' finish the album off nicely but the album struggles to recover from its lacklustre middle section.
In conclusion there are some GREAT songs on here and the rest are mainly good but the few weak tracks have been allowed to dominate. I'd give this album 3.5 out of 5.
2 decent songs, a star each, 27 Aug 2008
I have all of The Verve's previous albums, from the seminal "A Storm in Heaven", through the superb "A Northern Soul" to the good but over-hyped "Urban Hymns". This is not a patch on any of them.
The many filler tracks hinted at on "Urban Hymns" have been expanded and watered-down even further to pad out this offering. The tough sonic soundscapes favoured by guitarist Nick McCabe in days gone by are all but absent here, where he is criminally underused. He has finally been relegated to Ashcroft's session man, making this lazy effort sound like another solo effort of his - no great thing.
The two standout tracks on the album - "Sit and Wonder" and "Love is Noise" - are the opening songs. Sadly it's all downhill from here on out. These two songs could have sat proudly on any previous album. For this reason alone "Forth" deserves 2 stars - 1 for each track.
Give it a try!, 21 Aug 2008
I can't agree with the last reviewer who stated that there is one good song and ten whiney ones. That is far from the mark. Some reviews on here may put people off this album because they make out that it is a 'whingey folk album' which paints it as a singer with acoustic guitar scenario. This is wrong. There ARE the odd song like that but they are always supplemented by the gentle backing of Laura Marling. And then you have the other songs which make great use of all manner of instruments. I won't mention 5 years time as everyone knows it by now. The other single Shape of my heart has some nice mexican horns etc, Rocks & Daggers (the best song on the album) has some fiddle and some nice changes in tempo, 2 atoms is another up tempo number. I can see how this album would irritate people, but I think there is more to it than meets the eye. Give it a go, at least listen to it from start to finish before saying it's rubbish! I Like the Wes Anderson inspired videos as well!
1 fluffy fun song and 10 whining ones, 20 Aug 2008
I bought this on the strength of "five years time" thinking it would run in much the same vein throughout. How wrong I was. Its folk, so there is plenty of opportunity to be miserable whilst strumming a guitar.
Very disappointed and I've returned my CD already.
15 minutes of fame, 20 Aug 2008
I can't take seriously the claim that this is 'folk' music. Not even if we stretch the definition to take in the wildest realms of Nu-Folk could we see Noah and the Whale filling out the airspace of Folk on 2 !
To my ears,the band are somewhat reminiscent of groups like Talking Heads or They might be Giants. Definitely Indie Pop in style and content rather than folk.
Apparently they have been receiving a lot of play on Radio 1 ? I wouldn't know being over 12 and never allowing my ears to be defiled by such a hideous aural experience ! It would not surprise me though as the album is brim full of chirpy, frothy tracks which would perfectly suit the undemanding tastes of Radio 1 listeners and it's play it safe controllers and DJ's.
If Noah and the Whale were a food dish they would be Pizza and Fries. It fills a space for a bit but it's blandness leaves you craving more substantial nourishment !
And it was fun fun fun (I know - sorry!), 17 Aug 2008
But it comes from such a catchy song that you just can't help it. But now the album has been released, it's an opportunity to see if 'the song of the summer' is just a one-off or are there other gems there too. And I'm pleased to say that the album is a very welcome surprise. Noah and the Whale have crafted a quirky, original album. The lyrics are witty and perceptive and set in music that is kind of folksy-pop. The singles 5 Years Time and Shape Of My Heart do stand out but only by a notch. All together, the album is a joy to listen to and will leave you smiling. And at just over 42 minutes, it doesn't outstay its welcome either.
In 5 year's time..., 15 Aug 2008
... no one will remember N&TW* or their works. Whimsical to the point of nausea.
*The Twee-Filter on my firewall prevents me from typing their full name.
Lucky to get 1 star.
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Fleet Foxes
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Fleet Foxes;
Bella Union;
2008-06-16;
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Usually dispatched within 1-2 business days
*Best price found from Amazon Marketplace seller
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*Amazon: £7.29
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Product Description
It's now twenty years since grunge emerged from then culturally isolated Seattle and Fleet Foxes, the eponymous debut album from the city's latest heroes, demonstrates just how much American independent rock has mutated in that time. The five young members of Fleet Foxes make up a very different sort of rock band, describing their own music as "baroque harmonic pop jams". Even that understates the depths of the quintet's effortless vocal harmonies and gently woozy, folky feel. Of their contemporaries only the enigmatic Midlake and My Morning Jacket at their most fragile come close, but neither could have cooked up the Beach Boys spiritual of "White Winter Hymnal" or its more powerful companion piece "Ragged Wood". In fact Fleet Foxes happily admit to aspiring to an earlier tradition--not just obvious antecedents like the Byrds, the Association, Neil Young and, especially, David Crosby's famously unfocussed solo album If Only I Could Remember My Name but ancient English folk songs and their later American descendents. All were hunted and gathered from the internet--songwriters Robin Pecknold and Skye Skjelset are barely in their twenties. Add a host of unlikely instruments and the results are stunning, the complete antithesis of mainstream stadium indie that has followed Arcade Fire. Still, the cover features a Bruegel painting of peasants that might have graced any Black Sabbath sleeve. In that way at least Fleet Foxes salute a local tradition. -—Steve Jelbert
Customer Reviews
Empty and vile, 24 Aug 2008
The absence of everything spontaneous, beautiful and courageous in music. Cod poetry mired down by turgid dirgery with all the wit and sophistication of a rotten cat dropping.
Some posh boy warbles unconvincingly over U2's sub-Bsides and expects the world to be saved while I boak heartily into a straw boater.
Music for people with no love for music and no clue about life.
Their best yet, 24 Aug 2008
I haven't always liked Coldplay. Parachutes I could take or leave (and generally left). 'Rush of Blood' was good in parts but only really 'The Scientist' and 'Warning Sign' have lasted for me. 'X and Y' attended to their main fault - a lack of variety in building a melody - and also gave us sound washes, instumental development and nearly sixty minutes of sound.
Viva La Vida (a much shorter work) has attended to most of their remaining weaknesses and come up with their first classic pop/rock album that can be enjoyed as a whole. The lyrics are less pretentious - the title track even manages to be witty - and the songs are tidier and organised; they all tell their own particular story in music and lyrics. Critically the instrumentation has real variety with the percussion particularly good. Meanwhile Chris Martin's vocals have matured allowing most melody lines to range well over one octave.
The conceit of 'Fix You' ie two competing musical ideas on one particular track is arguably done to death but there is really not a single weak contribution here.
Just give it time..., 22 Aug 2008
This is Coldplay, but with a bit of a twist. I doubt these guys want to create an album that sounds generically similar every time they decide to release a collection of tracks.
So what's the big fuss, and why is everyone having a go at them? Is it because it's Coldplay and it's 'cool' to criticise them? Or is it because they are boring and dull and unimaginative? Or is it because all of their stuff sounds similar?
On the last few counts, I can say that 'Viva La Vida' is NOT boring and NOT dull. Neither is it unimaginative. It is probably the most diverse record Coldplay have produced...but does that necessarily mean that it's their best?
Flip a coin.
On one side, you have the critics who hate it for not being Coldplay - too different, too experimental, too 'bits and pieces'.
On the other hand, you have the people who enjoy it for being a diverse record, with plenty of variety shown in the songs in structure and in how they sound.
I admit myself, it's the kind of record that grows on you. They do say that the best records tend to do so.
'Viva La Vida' is a great album. And it's great because Coldplay create wonderful music.
The standout tracks are: 'Lost!', '42', 'Lovers in Japan', 'Violet Hill', and the title-track, 'Viva La Vida'.
However, there isn't one bad track on it, despite many people dismissing the album. Other tracks, 'Life in Technicolor', 'Cemeteries of London', 'Yes', 'Strawberry Swing', and 'Death and All of His Friends' are good, but don't grab you by the scruff of the neck and beg for your listening attention.
Maybe we take Coldplay for granted. They create excellent music, but some people fail to recognize this. They perceive them as dull and unimaginative. But 'Viva La Vida' is anything but. It is the bravest Coldplay album yet. And quite possibly one of the best, if only because of that. 8/10.
Coldplay deliver once again - the best British band of the Noughties, 19 Aug 2008
How can you argue with this band and their success so far? And before people think I just happen to be a sheep, I found Coldplay's Trouble and Yellow abhorrent. I was not convinced at all. However, I just love Coldplay's work from Parachutes (the two singles excepted) through to this latest installment. This is not an X&Y and is different thanks to the very positive influence of Brian Eno, a magician in his own right. The first 3 tracks just glide you through the listening experience but I struggle with 'Yes'. It is quite different from a typical Coldplay melody and reminds me of the French ambient/rock band, M83. Maybe that's a good thing. Not for me though. However, the two chart hits are just fantastic and uplifting. Not convinced by Strawberry Swing either but I like the way the album finishes. So what have we got then? Just another Coldplay album or have they tried something a little different? Indeed they have and for that they should be applauded as they attempt to evolve. As an album it works very well and it holds CD 4 in my car and will do so for a while. I can't give it 5 stars, it's just not as good as Parachutes for me but it's still a very good album. Don't denigrate, just appreciate.
Best Coldplay Album By Far, 11 Aug 2008
I have taken time to listen to the new Coldplay album several times since its release. There is no denying that this album is far more experimental than the first three albums and moves away from the bands pop/rock songs based around basic chords. The meat of the album is vedged between a very catchy intro and outro which compliment the new style very well.
Initially i found the lyrics on the album a little simple in places but as i listened more, i realised that it may be a small price the band has paid for pushing the content of the songs into new subject areas. A good example of this is the title track 'Viva La Vida' which encapsulates the front cover and speaks of revolution and the trials and tribulations of being a king.
Standout tracks for me are 'Yes', 'Lost' and the very radiohead-esque '42' but to be honest there isn't a bad track on the album.
Overall, the album solidifies Coldplays status as one of the driving cogs in British music at the moment. While many bands continue to stumble along and produce continuous streams of 'safe' music, Coldplay have turned their music in a new direction and made a brilliant go of it.
The new Maroon 5, 26 Aug 2008
A friend put this on, and after all the hype I was expecting something far far better than this! I take no pleasure in knocking new music, it's just that this really is tedious generic mush. If you like Maroon 5 I'm sure you'll love it! However, if you're reading this thinking The Script might be the next great guitar band of the year, rest assured they are not.
My tip is to avoid wasting your money here and instead buy an album by a band worthy of your time and money...buy Midnight Organ Fight by Frightened Rabbit. Trust me you'll thank me!
dosen't break any new boundries, 16 Aug 2008
I have listened to this album a dozen times now. It is engaging enough but it dosen't break any new boundries, in fact quite the opposite. The Script take the best elements from some of the most acclaimed artists (Sting, Paulo Nutini) but fail to create a mould of its own. At times i was left pleading with the guitarist to become more aggressive, or come to that any of the musicians to stamp thier mark and not just provide backing music to the lead vocals. I can not see this band recording 3 albums unless they have the guts to express themselves more openly and challange the only real talent on show...the vocals
Irish Charm, 13 Aug 2008
I just got this album and listened to it on repeat because I was so blown away by how good it is.
Danny has a beautiful voice and the slick production makes it very polished.
My current favourite song is probably "Fall for Anything".
And the lyrics are accessible,being able to relate them to personal experiences.
All in all, a fantasticalbum and I cannot wait to see them live=]
An amazing debut set, full of quality , 12 Aug 2008
Ireland's own The Script's debut self-titled album is one of the best debut efforts in a long while. With their unique and fantastic mix of Pop, Rock, R'n'B and Soul, they are able to connect great melodies and meaningful, strong lyrics with their listener.
As they hit the Top 20 [Top 10 Ireland] with their first single, the atonishing "We Cry," they received considerate praise from the public, critics and press alike, but it wasn't until the second hit, the beautiful, moving [no pun intended, haha!] "The Man Who Can't Be Moved," which has [so far] hit Top 3 in both the UK & Ireland that they hit the big time.
And everybody who loved those two songs should be completely interested in this incredible album. The majority of songs about broken relationships, one and almost everybody can relate to the songs somehow or another, which makes it all the more better. My personal favourites - aside from the two singles releases - are "Breakeven," in which a guy struggles to move on from his past lover - who has already done so, and is now with someone else, "Rusty Halo," which describes [from what I interpretate] a character who has been through a tough time for so long and it's now time for them to move on and shine, and finally "Fall For Anything" in which advice is given to a girl who is being brought down by a group of people, but is too naive and "falls for anything" they say.
Overall, all eleven tracks are brilliant; this emotional, fascinating and inspirational musical experience certainly isn't one which should be missed. Oh, and they also clearly put a lot of thought into the brilliant artwork too. If that's not enough, the set is also presented on Open Disc, which allows the listener to access bonus features such as video footage, extra audio footage, a question & answer section, photo gallery and more. The quote that they are "one of the most talked about bands of 2008" really lives up to its name; as I'm sure the album will hit number one in Ireland this Friday, it's also set for number one in the UK with sales of 17,000 units sold in its first day. Follow those 17,000 people. Buy it.
[P.S. again, this is G W Hope's son reviewing.]
Unsurprisingly disappointing., 12 Aug 2008
After the hammering Radio 1 and Radio 2 have given 'The Man Who Can't Be Moved' my curisoity was piqued and I quickly snapped up this CD. It soon became clear that this is nothing special. Along with the likes of The Last Goodbye, OneRepublic, and Maroon 5 it's just far to generic. The latest single is good, not excellent, and so I found myself falling into the trap of buying an album based on one song, again. There are few redeeming qualities, lyrics rather dull, production OTT, vocals average - cover art is nice though. My CD has since been put on an auction website.
Back to college for any one in the mid-late twenties!, 28 Aug 2008
I'll keep this straight forward and to the point as much as possible....
The Verve before 1999 have always had 2 sides. 1 side Nick McCabe...far out experimental guitar music....
Richard Ashcroft...Straight forward ballads/rock songs...
You could always tell a Richard Ashcroft song from a Verve song...example from the album a Northern soul the title track is a typical group composition whereas On your Own and History are obviously Ashcroft written songs...Urban Hymns...Neon Wilderness and Catching The Butterfly, both Verve written...Lucky Man,Sonnet...Ashcroft written. The evidence is there as to what I,m trying to say just look at the writing credits in the cd's!!
Now to Forth!! The 2 sides appears to be gone...it really sounds like the band are working together and combining both sides!!!
I won't go into details but list some highlights...Love Is Noise,just a blinding catchy song...Sit and Wonder a typical Verve song...Noise Epic...an amazing journey into why The Verve are so great...
If you like The Verve and always have done this will not dissapoint you...if you only like 1 or 2 of there songs....get the ones you like!
Four Stars... and a bit., 27 Aug 2008
I was never a Verve fan as such, but I have had Urban Hymns since its release and it's is one of my favourites. Forth is good but by no means great. It starts off well, the first few songs are excellent, particularly Rather Be and Love is Noise, but then it loses its way until the brilliant Valium Skies. So I give it four stars, were it not for the rather poor middle, I'd have happily given five stars. This is only my opinion, this one looks like one of those CD's that is 'like marmite', if you know what I mean.
Forth , 27 Aug 2008
Keepin this brief, Forth is a Top album, as good as all their others, standout tracks...
sit and wonder
love is noise
rather be
valium skies
appalachian springs
(BUY NOW GREAT ALBUM!)
A Bitter-Sweet Album, 27 Aug 2008
The album opens brilliantly with 'Sit and Wonder' and 'Love is Noise' rivalling the best Verve tracks. 'Rather Be' has the difficult task of following such strong songs but changes the tone of the album fluidly and is a good track in itself.
However the three mediocre songs of 'Judas', 'Numbness' (does exactly what it says on the tin) and 'I See Houses' follow and this is the major problem with this album. By the time these tracks are over you are left feeling bored and the album feeling dead and lifeless.
'Noise Epic' tries to pick up the tempo in typical Verve fashion and 'Valium Skies' is a hidden gem on this album. 'Mama Soul' and 'Appalachian Springs' finish the album off nicely but the album struggles to recover from its lacklustre middle section.
In conclusion there are some GREAT songs on here and the rest are mainly good but the few weak tracks have been allowed to dominate. I'd give this album 3.5 out of 5.
2 decent songs, a star each, 27 Aug 2008
I have all of The Verve's previous albums, from the seminal "A Storm in Heaven", through the superb "A Northern Soul" to the good but over-hyped "Urban Hymns". This is not a patch on any of them.
The many filler tracks hinted at on "Urban Hymns" have been expanded and watered-down even further to pad out this offering. The tough sonic soundscapes favoured by guitarist Nick McCabe in days gone by are all but absent here, where he is criminally underused. He has finally been relegated to Ashcroft's session man, making this lazy effort sound like another solo effort of his - no great thing.
The two standout tracks on the album - "Sit and Wonder" and "Love is Noise" - are the opening songs. Sadly it's all downhill from here on out. These two songs could have sat proudly on any previous album. For this reason alone "Forth" deserves 2 stars - 1 for each track.
Give it a try!, 21 Aug 2008
I can't agree with the last reviewer who stated that there is one good song and ten whiney ones. That is far from the mark. Some reviews on here may put people off this album because they make out that it is a 'whingey folk album' which paints it as a singer with acoustic guitar scenario. This is wrong. There ARE the odd song like that but they are always supplemented by the gentle backing of Laura Marling. And then you have the other songs which make great use of all manner of instruments. I won't mention 5 years time as everyone knows it by now. The other single Shape of my heart has some nice mexican horns etc, Rocks & Daggers (the best song on the album) has some fiddle and some nice changes in tempo, 2 atoms is another up tempo number. I can see how this album would irritate people, but I think there is more to it than meets the eye. Give it a go, at least listen to it from start to finish before saying it's rubbish! I Like the Wes Anderson inspired videos as well!
1 fluffy fun song and 10 whining ones, 20 Aug 2008
I bought this on the strength of "five years time" thinking it would run in much the same vein throughout. How wrong I was. Its folk, so there is plenty of opportunity to be miserable whilst strumming a guitar.
Very disappointed and I've returned my CD already.
15 minutes of fame, 20 Aug 2008
I can't take seriously the claim that this is 'folk' music. Not even if we stretch the definition to take in the wildest realms of Nu-Folk could we see Noah and the Whale filling out the airspace of Folk on 2 !
To my ears,the band are somewhat reminiscent of groups like Talking Heads or They might be Giants. Definitely Indie Pop in style and content rather than folk.
Apparently they have been receiving a lot of play on Radio 1 ? I wouldn't know being over 12 and never allowing my ears to be defiled by such a hideous aural experience ! It would not surprise me though as the album is brim full of chirpy, frothy tracks which would perfectly suit the undemanding tastes of Radio 1 listeners and it's play it safe controllers and DJ's.
If Noah and the Whale were a food dish they would be Pizza and Fries. It fills a space for a bit but it's blandness leaves you craving more substantial nourishment !
And it was fun fun fun (I know - sorry!), 17 Aug 2008
But it comes from such a catchy song that you just can't help it. But now the album has been released, it's an opportunity to see if 'the song of the summer' is just a one-off or are there other gems there too. And I'm pleased to say that the album is a very welcome surprise. Noah and the Whale have crafted a quirky, original album. The lyrics are witty and perceptive and set in music that is kind of folksy-pop. The singles 5 Years Time and Shape Of My Heart do stand out but only by a notch. All together, the album is a joy to listen to and will leave you smiling. And at just over 42 minutes, it doesn't outstay its welcome either.
In 5 year's time..., 15 Aug 2008
... no one will remember N&TW* or their works. Whimsical to the point of nausea.
*The Twee-Filter on my firewall prevents me from typing their full name.
Lucky to get 1 star.
One of my 2008 faves, 28 Aug 2008
One of my 2008 faves, never far from my stereo. The only downer is it hasn't got the song "Mykonos" on it, it would have been a 5 star album then!!! worth a listen.
"Just plain awful...", 27 Aug 2008
Avoid. Avoid. Avoid. So-called music "critics" are wetting themselves with excitement over this, and I can only assume they don't get out much! It's just plain awful. Soulless. Tuneless. Useless. Say goodbye now to the Fleet Foxes. They won't be around for much longer.
If reverb was talent, 26 Aug 2008
If Reverb was talent and Beach boy parodies were new then this would be a work of unparalleled genius. Dont get conned like I did. Strictly for people with record collections that start in 1993.
Wonderful, 23 Aug 2008
Being a fan of 'this sort of music' ie. hymnal, harmony-led tunes, it's not task to give five stars to this wonderful little album. As a piece, the work has a very healing sense about it. This is an album that salves the soul, rather than dwells on the angst of the band, which perhaps puts some people off. All I can say is don't be. It has obviously been put together with a care, love and attention that is lacking in so many records nowadays.
Enter as Foxes, Exit as Rabbits, 19 Aug 2008
On first hearing I made all the same comparisons, more or less, as other reviewers did. I liked the harmonies, and anticipated that I may be adding the FFs to my regular listening.
On second hearing I once again felt that flush of expectation as the first track kicked in. About half an hour later I had this vague sense of an irritating noise in my ears and realised the record was still playing. It had completely lost me, and as I listened I wondered if perhaps this was some fiendish loop tape I'd been handed which just went on and on, like music on hold.
A shame, really, that they were unable to sustain the initial anticipation by varying the sound enough for me not to tune out.
A little like when you're out on a walk and you see your first bunny and think "How cute"; then you see the rest of them in their thousands, and they're not so cute any more, just too much of the same thing.
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We Started Nothing
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Ting Tings;
Columbia Records;
2008-05-19;
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Usually dispatched within 1-2 business days
*Best price found from Amazon Marketplace seller
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*Amazon: £7.45
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Product Description
The debut album by Salford's The Ting Tings comes hot on the heels of their No.1 single "That's Not My Name", a nugget of pop gold that comes on like a genetic splicing of Toni Basil's "Micky" and The Knack's "My Sharona". The bulk of We Started Nothing follows a similar formula, navigating a path between the smart, angular indie of CSS, Bonde Do Role, et al and the pop mainstream. Here and there, they pull it off perfectly: the stutter-rap of "Fruit Machine" sees vocalist Katie White leading on some poor sap with sultry charisma and lip-gloss sass, while the excellent "Shut Up and Let Me Go" is snappy dance-punk in the spirit of Blondie's "Rapture" or Tom Tom Club's "Genius of Love". Elsewhere, they branch out with mixed results. "We Walk" builds from quiet flourishes of piano into a surprisingly steely manifesto: "Smash the rest up/Burn it down/Put us in the corner cause we're into ideas", sneers White. Rather less good is "Traffic Light", a light, jazzy number that employs a number of somewhat forced driving metaphors to describe a relationship hit the skids. Still, it's a debut with promise, and a string of good singles is nothing to be sniffed at. --Louis Pattison
Customer Reviews
Empty and vile, 24 Aug 2008
The absence of everything spontaneous, beautiful and courageous in music. Cod poetry mired down by turgid dirgery with all the wit and sophistication of a rotten cat dropping.
Some posh boy warbles unconvincingly over U2's sub-Bsides and expects the world to be saved while I boak heartily into a straw boater.
Music for people with no love for music and no clue about life.
Their best yet, 24 Aug 2008
I haven't always liked Coldplay. Parachutes I could take or leave (and generally left). 'Rush of Blood' was good in parts but only really 'The Scientist' and 'Warning Sign' have lasted for me. 'X and Y' attended to their main fault - a lack of variety in building a melody - and also gave us sound washes, instumental development and nearly sixty minutes of sound.
Viva La Vida (a much shorter work) has attended to most of their remaining weaknesses and come up with their first classic pop/rock album that can be enjoyed as a whole. The lyrics are less pretentious - the title track even manages to be witty - and the songs are tidier and organised; they all tell their own particular story in music and lyrics. Critically the instrumentation has real variety with the percussion particularly good. Meanwhile Chris Martin's vocals have matured allowing most melody lines to range well over one octave.
The conceit of 'Fix You' ie two competing musical ideas on one particular track is arguably done to death but there is really not a single weak contribution here.
Just give it time..., 22 Aug 2008
This is Coldplay, but with a bit of a twist. I doubt these guys want to create an album that sounds generically similar every time they decide to release a collection of tracks.
So what's the big fuss, and why is everyone having a go at them? Is it because it's Coldplay and it's 'cool' to criticise them? Or is it because they are boring and dull and unimaginative? Or is it because all of their stuff sounds similar?
On the last few counts, I can say that 'Viva La Vida' is NOT boring and NOT dull. Neither is it unimaginative. It is probably the most diverse record Coldplay have produced...but does that necessarily mean that it's their best?
Flip a coin.
On one side, you have the critics who hate it for not being Coldplay - too different, too experimental, too 'bits and pieces'.
On the other hand, you have the people who enjoy it for being a diverse record, with plenty of variety shown in the songs in structure and in how they sound.
I admit myself, it's the kind of record that grows on you. They do say that the best records tend to do so.
'Viva La Vida' is a great album. And it's great because Coldplay create wonderful music.
The standout tracks are: 'Lost!', '42', 'Lovers in Japan', 'Violet Hill', and the title-track, 'Viva La Vida'.
However, there isn't one bad track on it, despite many people dismissing the album. Other tracks, 'Life in Technicolor', 'Cemeteries of London', 'Yes', 'Strawberry Swing', and 'Death and All of His Friends' are good, but don't grab you by the scruff of the neck and beg for your listening attention.
Maybe we take Coldplay for granted. They create excellent music, but some people fail to recognize this. They perceive them as dull and unimaginative. But 'Viva La Vida' is anything but. It is the bravest Coldplay album yet. And quite possibly one of the best, if only because of that. 8/10.
Coldplay deliver once again - the best British band of the Noughties, 19 Aug 2008
How can you argue with this band and their success so far? And before people think I just happen to be a sheep, I found Coldplay's Trouble and Yellow abhorrent. I was not convinced at all. However, I just love Coldplay's work from Parachutes (the two singles excepted) through to this latest installment. This is not an X&Y and is different thanks to the very positive influence of Brian Eno, a magician in his own right. The first 3 tracks just glide you through the listening experience but I struggle with 'Yes'. It is quite different from a typical Coldplay melody and reminds me of the French ambient/rock band, M83. Maybe that's a good thing. Not for me though. However, the two chart hits are just fantastic and uplifting. Not convinced by Strawberry Swing either but I like the way the album finishes. So what have we got then? Just another Coldplay album or have they tried something a little different? Indeed they have and for that they should be applauded as they attempt to evolve. As an album it works very well and it holds CD 4 in my car and will do so for a while. I can't give it 5 stars, it's just not as good as Parachutes for me but it's still a very good album. Don't denigrate, just appreciate.
Best Coldplay Album By Far, 11 Aug 2008
I have taken time to listen to the new Coldplay album several times since its release. There is no denying that this album is far more experimental than the first three albums and moves away from the bands pop/rock songs based around basic chords. The meat of the album is vedged between a very catchy intro and outro which compliment the new style very well.
Initially i found the lyrics on the album a little simple in places but as i listened more, i realised that it may be a small price the band has paid for pushing the content of the songs into new subject areas. A good example of this is the title track 'Viva La Vida' which encapsulates the front cover and speaks of revolution and the trials and tribulations of being a king.
Standout tracks for me are 'Yes', 'Lost' and the very radiohead-esque '42' but to be honest there isn't a bad track on the album.
Overall, the album solidifies Coldplays status as one of the driving cogs in British music at the moment. While many bands continue to stumble along and produce continuous streams of 'safe' music, Coldplay have turned their music in a new direction and made a brilliant go of it.
The new Maroon 5, 26 Aug 2008
A friend put this on, and after all the hype I was expecting something far far better than this! I take no pleasure in knocking new music, it's just that this really is tedious generic mush. If you like Maroon 5 I'm sure you'll love it! However, if you're reading this thinking The Script might be the next great guitar band of the year, rest assured they are not.
My tip is to avoid wasting your money here and instead buy an album by a band worthy of your time and money...buy Midnight Organ Fight by Frightened Rabbit. Trust me you'll thank me!
dosen't break any new boundries, 16 Aug 2008
I have listened to this album a dozen times now. It is engaging enough but it dosen't break any new boundries, in fact quite the opposite. The Script take the best elements from some of the most acclaimed artists (Sting, Paulo Nutini) but fail to create a mould of its own. At times i was left pleading with the guitarist to become more aggressive, or come to that any of the musicians to stamp thier mark and not just provide backing music to the lead vocals. I can not see this band recording 3 albums unless they have the guts to express themselves more openly and challange the only real talent on show...the vocals
Irish Charm, 13 Aug 2008
I just got this album and listened to it on repeat because I was so blown away by how good it is.
Danny has a beautiful voice and the slick production makes it very polished.
My current favourite song is probably "Fall for Anything".
And the lyrics are accessible,being able to relate them to personal experiences.
All in all, a fantasticalbum and I cannot wait to see them live=]
An amazing debut set, full of quality , 12 Aug 2008
Ireland's own The Script's debut self-titled album is one of the best debut efforts in a long while. With their unique and fantastic mix of Pop, Rock, R'n'B and Soul, they are able to connect great melodies and meaningful, strong lyrics with their listener.
As they hit the Top 20 [Top 10 Ireland] with their first single, the atonishing "We Cry," they received considerate praise from the public, critics and press alike, but it wasn't until the second hit, the beautiful, moving [no pun intended, haha!] "The Man Who Can't Be Moved," which has [so far] hit Top 3 in both the UK & Ireland that they hit the big time.
And everybody who loved those two songs should be completely interested in this incredible album. The majority of songs about broken relationships, one and almost everybody can relate to the songs somehow or another, which makes it all the more better. My personal favourites - aside from the two singles releases - are "Breakeven," in which a guy struggles to move on from his past lover - who has already done so, and is now with someone else, "Rusty Halo," which describes [from what I interpretate] a character who has been through a tough time for so long and it's now time for them to move on and shine, and finally "Fall For Anything" in which advice is given to a girl who is being brought down by a group of people, but is too naive and "falls for anything" they say.
Overall, all eleven tracks are brilliant; this emotional, fascinating and inspirational musical experience certainly isn't one which should be missed. Oh, and they also clearly put a lot of thought into the brilliant artwork too. If that's not enough, the set is also presented on Open Disc, which allows the listener to access bonus features such as video footage, extra audio footage, a question & answer section, photo gallery and more. The quote that they are "one of the most talked about bands of 2008" really lives up to its name; as I'm sure the album will hit number one in Ireland this Friday, it's also set for number one in the UK with sales of 17,000 units sold in its first day. Follow those 17,000 people. Buy it.
[P.S. again, this is G W Hope's son reviewing.]
Unsurprisingly disappointing., 12 Aug 2008
After the hammering Radio 1 and Radio 2 have given 'The Man Who Can't Be Moved' my curisoity was piqued and I quickly snapped up this CD. It soon became clear that this is nothing special. Along with the likes of The Last Goodbye, OneRepublic, and Maroon 5 it's just far to generic. The latest single is good, not excellent, and so I found myself falling into the trap of buying an album based on one song, again. There are few redeeming qualities, lyrics rather dull, production OTT, vocals average - cover art is nice though. My CD has since been put on an auction website.
Back to college for any one in the mid-late twenties!, 28 Aug 2008
I'll keep this straight forward and to the point as much as possible....
The Verve before 1999 have always had 2 sides. 1 side Nick McCabe...far out experimental guitar music....
Richard Ashcroft...Straight forward ballads/rock songs...
You could always tell a Richard Ashcroft song from a Verve song...example from the album a Northern soul the title track is a typical group composition whereas On your Own and History are obviously Ashcroft written songs...Urban Hymns...Neon Wilderness and Catching The Butterfly, both Verve written...Lucky Man,Sonnet...Ashcroft written. The evidence is there as to what I,m trying to say just look at the writing credits in the cd's!!
Now to Forth!! The 2 sides appears to be gone...it really sounds like the band are working together and combining both sides!!!
I won't go into details but list some highlights...Love Is Noise,just a blinding catchy song...Sit and Wonder a typical Verve song...Noise Epic...an amazing journey into why The Verve are so great...
If you like The Verve and always have done this will not dissapoint you...if you only like 1 or 2 of there songs....get the ones you like!
Four Stars... and a bit., 27 Aug 2008
I was never a Verve fan as such, but I have had Urban Hymns since its release and it's is one of my favourites. Forth is good but by no means great. It starts off well, the first few songs are excellent, particularly Rather Be and Love is Noise, but then it loses its way until the brilliant Valium Skies. So I give it four stars, were it not for the rather poor middle, I'd have happily given five stars. This is only my opinion, this one looks like one of those CD's that is 'like marmite', if you know what I mean.
Forth , 27 Aug 2008
Keepin this brief, Forth is a Top album, as good as all their others, standout tracks...
sit and wonder
love is noise
rather be
valium skies
appalachian springs
(BUY NOW GREAT ALBUM!)
A Bitter-Sweet Album, 27 Aug 2008
The album opens brilliantly with 'Sit and Wonder' and 'Love is Noise' rivalling the best Verve tracks. 'Rather Be' has the difficult task of following such strong songs but changes the tone of the album fluidly and is a good track in itself.
However the three mediocre songs of 'Judas', 'Numbness' (does exactly what it says on the tin) and 'I See Houses' follow and this is the major problem with this album. By the time these tracks are over you are left feeling bored and the album feeling dead and lifeless.
'Noise Epic' tries to pick up the tempo in typical Verve fashion and 'Valium Skies' is a hidden gem on this album. 'Mama Soul' and 'Appalachian Springs' finish the album off nicely but the album struggles to recover from its lacklustre middle section.
In conclusion there are some GREAT songs on here and the rest are mainly good but the few weak tracks have been allowed to dominate. I'd give this album 3.5 out of 5.
2 decent songs, a star each, 27 Aug 2008
I have all of The Verve's previous albums, from the seminal "A Storm in Heaven", through the superb "A Northern Soul" to the good but over-hyped "Urban Hymns". This is not a patch on any of them.
The many filler tracks hinted at on "Urban Hymns" have been expanded and watered-down even further to pad out this offering. The tough sonic soundscapes favoured by guitarist Nick McCabe in days gone by are all but absent here, where he is criminally underused. He has finally been relegated to Ashcroft's session man, making this lazy effort sound like another solo effort of his - no great thing.
The two standout tracks on the album - "Sit and Wonder" and "Love is Noise" - are the opening songs. Sadly it's all downhill from here on out. These two songs could have sat proudly on any previous album. For this reason alone "Forth" deserves 2 stars - 1 for each track.
Give it a try!, 21 Aug 2008
I can't agree with the last reviewer who stated that there is one good song and ten whiney ones. That is far from the mark. Some reviews on here may put people off this album because they make out that it is a 'whingey folk album' which paints it as a singer with acoustic guitar scenario. This is wrong. There ARE the odd song like that but they are always supplemented by the gentle backing of Laura Marling. And then you have the other songs which make great use of all manner of instruments. I won't mention 5 years time as everyone knows it by now. The other single Shape of my heart has some nice mexican horns etc, Rocks & Daggers (the best song on the album) has some fiddle and some nice changes in tempo, 2 atoms is another up tempo number. I can see how this album would irritate people, but I think there is more to it than meets the eye. Give it a go, at least listen to it from start to finish before saying it's rubbish! I Like the Wes Anderson inspired videos as well!
1 fluffy fun song and 10 whining ones, 20 Aug 2008
I bought this on the strength of "five years time" thinking it would run in much the same vein throughout. How wrong I was. Its folk, so there is plenty of opportunity to be miserable whilst strumming a guitar.
Very disappointed and I've returned my CD already.
15 minutes of fame, 20 Aug 2008
I can't take seriously the claim that this is 'folk' music. Not even if we stretch the definition to take in the wildest realms of Nu-Folk could we see Noah and the Whale filling out the airspace of Folk on 2 !
To my ears,the band are somewhat reminiscent of groups like Talking Heads or They might be Giants. Definitely Indie Pop in style and content rather than folk.
Apparently they have been receiving a lot of play on Radio 1 ? I wouldn't know being over 12 and never allowing my ears to be defiled by such a hideous aural experience ! It would not surprise me though as the album is brim full of chirpy, frothy tracks which would perfectly suit the undemanding tastes of Radio 1 listeners and it's play it safe controllers and DJ's.
If Noah and the Whale were a food dish they would be Pizza and Fries. It fills a space for a bit but it's blandness leaves you craving more substantial nourishment !
And it was fun fun fun (I know - sorry!), 17 Aug 2008
But it comes from such a catchy song that you just can't help it. But now the album has been released, it's an opportunity to see if 'the song of the summer' is just a one-off or are there other gems there too. And I'm pleased to say that the album is a very welcome surprise. Noah and the Whale have crafted a quirky, original album. The lyrics are witty and perceptive and set in music that is kind of folksy-pop. The singles 5 Years Time and Shape Of My Heart do stand out but only by a notch. All together, the album is a joy to listen to and will leave you smiling. And at just over 42 minutes, it doesn't outstay its welcome either.
In 5 year's time..., 15 Aug 2008
... no one will remember N&TW* or their works. Whimsical to the point of nausea.
*The Twee-Filter on my firewall prevents me from typing their full name.
Lucky to get 1 star.
One of my 2008 faves, 28 Aug 2008
One of my 2008 faves, never far from my stereo. The only downer is it hasn't got the song "Mykonos" on it, it would have been a 5 star album then!!! worth a listen.
"Just plain awful...", 27 Aug 2008
Avoid. Avoid. Avoid. So-called music "critics" are wetting themselves with excitement over this, and I can only assume they don't get out much! It's just plain awful. Soulless. Tuneless. Useless. Say goodbye now to the Fleet Foxes. They won't be around for much longer.
If reverb was talent, 26 Aug 2008
If Reverb was talent and Beach boy parodies were new then this would be a work of unparalleled genius. Dont get conned like I did. Strictly for people with record collections that start in 1993.
Wonderful, 23 Aug 2008
Being a fan of 'this sort of music' ie. hymnal, harmony-led tunes, it's not task to give five stars to this wonderful little album. As a piece, the work has a very healing sense about it. This is an album that salves the soul, rather than dwells on the angst of the band, which perhaps puts some people off. All I can say is don't be. It has obviously been put together with a care, love and attention that is lacking in so many records nowadays.
Enter as Foxes, Exit as Rabbits, 19 Aug 2008
On first hearing I made all the same comparisons, more or less, as other reviewers did. I liked the harmonies, and anticipated that I may be adding the FFs to my regular listening.
On second hearing I once again felt that flush of expectation as the first track kicked in. About half an hour later I had this vague sense of an irritating noise in my ears and realised the record was still playing. It had completely lost me, and as I listened I wondered if perhaps this was some fiendish loop tape I'd been handed which just went on and on, like music on hold.
A shame, really, that they were unable to sustain the initial anticipation by varying the sound enough for me not to tune out.
A little like when you're out on a walk and you see your first bunny and think "How cute"; then you see the rest of them in their thousands, and they're not so cute any more, just too much of the same thing.
another annoying band for wannabe indie kids to rave about, 12 Aug 2008
the album was playing whilst i was in hmv i had to walk out the store it pissed me off so much
and to be honest i dont care if people leave bad comments about this review because i will never value an opinion from the type of person who defends the ting tings
WHY?, 11 Aug 2008
Why would you punish yourself by listening to any of this I almost thew my CD player against they wall to make this torture device stop instead I threw the CD I'd been bought...it woz one of the most satisfying moments ever. Don't buy this unless u hate yourself and are just to lazy for an interesting or painless suicide.
Bringing Indie Back, 09 Aug 2008
The Ting Tings have sure made a good long career for them selves, Sometimes recemendations can be awfully wrong on amazon, like just because i bought Little Voice by Sara Bareilles dosen't mean i want to bye MGMT's album , anyway thankgod this one was recomended, i was not sureof them at first by dislikeing Great DJ, But Lovin' Thats Not My Name, i followed the recomendation and i was glad i got it, i later grew found of Great DJ, i realised this was the best indie album, (sorry), Best album id ever heard, i learnt about there style, i have every single of the album, Go Forthe and Bye
Example of overhyped crap!!!!, 06 Aug 2008
Having had to endure this poor excuse for a band at Glastonbury, i thought i would give them a second go and borrowed my sisters cd, it is truely awful. I am not articulate or smart enough to do justice to how bad this album is. An album of cats screaming and children crying would of been more enjoyable.
The band themselves seem to have been styled by the stylest from Skins, whom was having a bad day, or maybe the band upset her. But they look like every other idiot from St Martins, whom wants too "fit in". Waste your money if you must, but be aware that you are merely jumping on the hype and one catchy track. If you think that you will listen to this album more then once then you are deluded and deaf. Truely truely awful!!!!!!
Confused?, 03 Aug 2008
Not sure if this is BAD? Well it IS. It is REALLY REALLY BAD!
Confusion solved.
((This is the kind of album that 5 years from now you will be really embarrassed to have in your collection))
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Oracular Spectacular
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MGMT;
SonyBMG;
2008-03-10;
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Usually dispatched within 1-2 business days
*Best price found from Amazon Marketplace seller
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*Amazon: £4.73
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