The former guitarist for the Smiths has released a new solo album that puts songwriting front and center rather than just showcasing his guitar chops; not that he has ever been a showboat in that regard, but fans do have a certain expectation of him. Despite his tenures in other bands, He employs an urgent, hushed tone that fits neatly within the confines of today's Britpop. In some ways, he is only as good as his collaborators. While the haunting, clean jangle of guitar sounds great, much of "Beyond the Rain" breaks new ground and feels more entrenched in expectations of what Britpop should be, even if it is marginally moodier.
Not hte first solo outing I have reviewed from him, he does put more effort into the structure of these songs. Sonically, it leans closer to the Stone Roses. He does borrow from his old band, as I cna hear echoes of "Girl Afraid " in the riff driving "How Come". Lyrically, he is no Morrissey, and this certainly debunks those who try to say the Smiths would have been better without Morrissey. There is his brighter signature chord progression on "Ophelia" that sounds like it could be on a Morrissey solo album. It's the best song so far. His last solo album was more experimental and electronic, where he drew from more 80s sounds; on this one, perhaps he learned to write for his demographic.
"That Feeling" has a strong chorus but an awkward verse, but at least he is trying andd it's not the worst new music I've heard this week. There is a more on-brand heartbreaking drama that finds him pulling chords from his youth. When it comes to singing ballads, though, he should leave that to Morrissey, as she sounds like Noel Gallagher trying to cover the Smiths. He proves himself capable of summoning the post-punk energy of old for "Fire With Fire," which finds his vocals as the weak spot again, though better than other points on the album. The last song, "All in a Life," is a mixed bag with some great guitar parts in ,clunky arrangements. Just because you are a groundbreaking guitarist does not mean you diod not get by with a little help from your friends. I will give this an 8.5/
pst451
No comments:
Post a Comment