Granted, if there's one weakness to the band's work, it's the songs where Sennett takes the reins. There's nothing wrong with Blake Sennett's voice; don't get me wrong. The songs are just as beautiful musically and lyrically as everything else — on his own, Sennett would stand up just fine, no doubt attracting the sort of attention lavished on his indie-rock counterparts.
The problem is slipping Sennett's voice into an album of work that's dominated by Lewis' clear song — and Sennett just can't compete, though my mother might admonish that this isn't a competition. Compared to Lewis, Sennett seems bland, like a bout of drunken sex without the spice of a good anal fisting.
But what's undeniably about this album is the emotion and effort Rilo Kiley puts into each note — nothing is done for effect or show or fortune. Even if they occasionally delve into the maudlin, they can't help it...that's just how they are, their earnestness is genuine, and, well, they mean it.
And perhaps most important, on this album Rilo Kiley gives us what's been missing from their previous work — a campfire song, called "With Arms Outstretched" complete with the requisite handclaps.
"It's sixteen miles to the promised land
And I promise you I'm doing the best I can"
The best they can is pretty damn good.
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Article comments
1 - Beryl
Rilo Kiley is absolutely amazing. I saw them for the first time in my home town, Los Angeles. When Jenny and Blake came on stage, I nearly pissed my pants. Their energy flowed through every nook and cranny of the building and I could tell that their new lyrics filled everyone's hearts with a new sense of joy. I was expecting old classics such as Frug and Always, but all of their new shit was just as good and even more refined. I think that Rilo Kiley is growing up and are identifying more with their music which is something that can sometimes be hard to do. They sound very professional but still with that same homey twang. I love you Rilo!!
2 - Kevin Muir
did you guys know that jenny lewis was a child actress and was in "troop beverly hills" and "the wizard"?
just a fun fact.
3 - Mitch
Drove three hours to see Rilo Kiley last night in Columbia, and it was totally worth it. The only problem I have with Rilo Kiley is that they don't come east very often.
4 - Josh
Another interesting fact: Blake played "Pinskey" on Nickelodeon's "Salute Your Shorts" series.
5 - Josh
Another interesting fact: Blake played "Pinskey" on Nickelodeon's "Salute Your Shorts" series.
6 - jethr
enjoy blake sennett cola
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