 |
|
|
|
February music reviews
Checking out the hottest sounds in music this month.
By Larissa Primeau
|
|
|
|
Sheryl Crow Detours, Universal
I have a theory about Sheryl Crow and that is she just isn't very good. I never said it would be profound, it's just a theory. She looks good, she plays the guitar well but as a package, Sheryl Crow is mediocre and that's what this album is.
As a result of a celebrity obsessed culture (I'm guilty too) we all know that Sheryl Crow broke off her engagement with Lance Armstrong and it seems as though this album may be a reflection of that time in her life. Sometimes huge breakups can make amazing albums (Alanis Morrisette has based a career on it) but in this case, Crow just seems self-indulgent. "Diamond Ring," "Now that You're Gone" and title track "Detours" all appear to be diary entries into her life during that time. Unfortunately the diary entries come from a whiny teenage girl instead of a 40-something woman with a lifetime of interesting experiences. Maybe that's the problem. Maybe Crow just isn't that interesting. But don't worry, it gets worse. Musicians are really lucky in the way that they can spew their political and religious beliefs by wrapping it up in a catchy hook and sing-able chorus. Some do it really well; I'll reference GreenDay for this one.
Again, Crow either needs to stop smoking marijuana or smoke some more because she can't seem to find that sincerity that makes a political song powerful. Good on her for trying ... I guess. Listen to "God Bless this Mess" and you'll get that feeling you get when you see someone doing something embarrassing on television. You'll cringe at the sound of it. It's cheesy and weak.
However, Sheryl Crow sells albums and there's no doubt that she'll sell this one too but if I can warn at least a few of you against it, I've done my job. Detours by Sheryl Crow gets a "meh."
Jack Johnson Sleep Through the Static, Universal
Jack Johnson has put out his 5th studio album and there's really not too much to say. Jack Johnson doesn't really stray from the pattern that has made him a popular musician since 2001. This album continues to follow the formula that appeals to his fans. They're simple soft songs that can be played in any and every situation without offending anyone. So much so, that at times they can put you to sleep. Depending on what you want music to do for you; this can be a good or a bad thing.
I'll say this for Jack Johnson, the dude knows how to write a love song and (assuming they're intended for his wife) she must melt into a puddle of goo every time he releases an album. "Angel" seems to be an ode to his college sweetheart and you can guarantee it'll turn up as wedding dances this summer. Move over Celine.
There is one point where Johnson gets fired up; well maybe mildly excited is a more appropriate description. Its title track "Sleep through the Static" that gets his coconuts in a bunch. This is a solid example of an anti-war song. It's not blatantly obvious in its lyrics and it's sincerely written. It's cool to hear Jack Johnson tackle something a bit more serious than banana pancakes and bubble toes.
Jack Johnson didn't re-invent the wheel in this album. If you're expecting something to blow you away, skip it. If you're happy to hear Jack Johnson being Jack Johnson, you'll enjoy this album.
A review of Matt Costa on the next page!
Related articles:
We recap the best films of 2007
The top 10 fashion faux pas of 2007
Style secrets from the experts!
|
|
|
|
Next page |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
OR |
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
