The most wonderful aspect of I'm OK...You're OK, however, is that Falkner brings an intimacy to his songs that we simply don't hear nowadays. These tracks, put together, are true, real, and beautiful, alternating between moments of pure joy and pure sadness. Like Beck's Sea Change, on which he played, the emotions of this album are not manufactured to sell records or to impress everyone with his "lo-fi" credentials. (This album was, incidentally, recorded without the aid of a professional studio — not like you could tell, as the instruments are pitch perfect and the lower fidelity adds to the charm and warmth of the songs.) Jason Falkner isn't trying to prove anything. He is simply trying to share his songs with us. His stunning, complex, rich, and eminently enjoyable songs.
I might as well save my money. There won't be another album like this in 2007. Jason, you have restored my faith in music. Thank you, my friend. Thank you.
Article comments
1 - Tom Johnson
I love Falkner, tracked him down following the paths you mention - Jellyfish and the Grays, and I find I actually listen to Author and Feel slightly more than either of the other two bands lately. This album sounds great from your review and I've been looking forward to more Falkner for a long time. Is there any word of a US release for this? I was holding out ordering this very expensive import.
2 - Josh
Holy crap, did he actually release an album? That's news worthy in and of itself. I might have to break down and import it. $33 every 10 years isn't that bad an investment, and it happens to be about the pace he works at these days.
The Bliss Descending EP was some of my favorite Falkner. "Very Best Years" from The Grays is good, too.
3 - Ben Gott
I'm glad the review has sparked some discussion; the album is most definitely worth the purchase price (although it will be released stateside on April 26th, according to Amazon.com). I would recommend the Japan-only version because of "I Don't Mind," which is one of the finest songs he's ever recorded.
I should have mentioned in the review that Bliss Descending is a wonderful album, too. "They Put Her in the Movies" and "Moving Up" are two songs that showcase Falkner's talents perfectly.
Thanks for the comments!
4 - Connie Phillips
Congrats! This article has been forwarded to the Advance.net websites and Boston.com.
5 - JM
This is just huge !!!
I was wandering how this album will sound (as I pre order it but still haven't received it yet )
after so many year and your review just make me more impatient ;-) Thx u
6 - Beetrix
Thanks for this review. All I can add is that Jason is the most talanted singer/songwriter of his generation and his music continues to inspire and comfort me. Always worth the wait and whatever price tag makes it possible for him to continue.
7 - Tom
I ordered the Japan Version just a moment ago. Can't wait!
Good to read that the bonus Track is a very good one. Glad I didn't wait for the european-release.
"These tracks, put together, are true, real, and beautiful, alternating between moments of pure joy and pure sadness."
Thats how I allways felt about Falkners music. Pop. But so REAL. Deep and airy at the same time. Sophisticated but very ear-friendly.
Why Jason isn't a big name at least in Indie-Pop circles is beyond explanations.
But I know his music. And I will spread his name with some reviews and articles in the music-forums I am part of.
Go Jason, GO!
8 - Steve
I have literally thousands of CDs spanning the past 20 or so years and "Can You Still Feel" stands above them all as the one I simply could not live without. Falkner's amazing musical and writing talents should have made him a household name by now. I can't wait to hear the new disc. Thanks for the review!
9 - Less Lee
Hi, I found this review when looking for images of Jason Falkner. I just interviewed him for my webzine and thought you might enjoy it.
At any rate, I think your review is spot on. For the last few years I keep thinking, "This is the Falkner album that's going to make him a megastar" and it never happens. Why, I have no clue because his songs just keep improving. And I also agree that "I Don't Mind" is just stellar!