What’s the 4-1-1?
After reuniting for a few U.K. gigs after 20 years apart, Gang of Four decide to re-record their best tracks.
Genre
Punk / alternative / progressive / rock
The Good
A whole lot of feedback fades away to a killer lick on “To Hell With Poverty." The dual vocal comes off a little whiney, but tolerable for the genre of music. The funky tempo change is quite unexpected. A repetitive fuzzy riff dominates “Naturals Not In It." “Why Theory” has the band experimenting with subtle hints of synthesizers. The vocals are delivered as spoken word for the most part. Lots of dark guitar tones. Chunky riffs and crashing tambourine help catapult “What We All Want." There are some great stinging guitar licks embedded throughout. “Capital” has a new wave sound to it with its echoed vocals and layered harmonies. “At Home He’s a Tourist” gallops along with muted riffs, thumping bass lines, and driving drum beats.
The Bad
The meanings and social statements expressed within these songs just don’t seem to be as radical as they were when they first came out. The vocals can sometimes come of a little harsh on the ears.
The Verdict
I tried giving this one a shot, but it just wasn’t working for me. There’s just something about the vocals that annoyed me. Also, re-recording your most popular tracks years later doesn’t always translate well. If I were a fan I would expect either a greatest hits album, new live album, or album of new material if my favorite band just reunited. It seems like a waste of time and money to get re-recordings when you have the originals. I don’t think this tactic would rope in any new fans either.
Did You Know?
Gang of Four’s debut album Entertainment! was released in 1979.
Rating: 2.5 out of 5
Originally posted by author at Rock-Is-Life.com
Article comments
1 - yam12
I can't take that very distinct riff in Damaged Goods off my head!
Thank you so much George for this great news!!!