From the misty-eyed vibe that pierces through “Black Sand” and “Godspeed” to the rabble-rousing thrust of “See Fernando” and “Carpetbaggers” (spiked with a shot of Elvis Costello), from the salacious bent of “Jack Killed Mom” to the redemption bestowed within the title track, Acid Tongue is sated with mischievous bite. Jenny Lewis, by virtue of her talent and magnetism, just makes it easier to swallow.
A. L. Haper, Asst. Music Editor
Snow Patrol – A Hundred Million Suns
The fifth full-length album for this Glasgow based mega-band is a departure from their usual brokenhearted fare, both lyrically and musically. No one has ever written bereft-without-you, didn't-know-what-I-had-till-lost-you lyrics like Gary Lightbody, but with A Hundred Million Suns he has turned those considerable, if dreary, talents in on themselves, writing lyrics and music that are actually upbeat. Songs that say "I love you and I'm happy in our relationship", "WOW, how fabulous is this relationship stuff", and "I've never loved you more than I do right now".
But it's not just those famously teary-eyed, grief-stricken lyrics that have changed. The band have managed change their already creamy-smooth, hot-buttered sound just enough that it sounds like Snow Patrol but more upbeat; stronger, happier melodies, more acoustic guitar and less obvious riffs all add to this new Snow Patrol. The final sound is one that is recognizable, so you're not threatened by a totally new sound, but still different enough that you can see a new direction for this well seasoned and much adored band. A Hundred Million Suns is an accomplished album with a fresh yet comfortable sound, that you will listen to it over and over again.
Article comments
1 - Glen Boyd
Some interesting choices here amongst my fellow scribes. I find it particularly telling that the 08' list leans fairly pop heavy, which I guess says a lot about the year in music we are about to leave behind us.
Onwards to '09 with Bruce, U2, Eminem, and the best of the rest of what's still to come.
Happy New Year!
-Glen
2 - Pico
Glen...Brian Wilson? Don't you mean Steven? ;-)
3 - Glen Boyd
Yeah, him too Pico.
-Glen
4 - LJ
Couldn't agree with you more about Rick Springfield's VENUS IN OVERDRIVE cd. I love it and have shared it with "non fans" who have been duly impressed. Title song rocks big power pop; "What's Victoria's Secret" which he's sung on tv repeatedly is lively, fun, a bit reminiscent of what made Rick the big American hit he became and yet has a new contemporary vibe as well. Great new different Rick Springfield stuff here - Stores have sales...go buy it, I say. Thanks Connie for your interesting list!
5 - Sterfish
Every year I read this (or similar articles), I find that most of the albums chosen are ones I have never heard before. That's always a good thing in my opinion. Thanks for the interesting choices.