The Waterboys have been around since the early 80s making rock music with a Dylan-esque touch. Mike Scott is main songwriter and lyricist, and the main consistant participant. There is usually a strong Scottish feel to The Waterboy's albums, as Scott is from Scotland. And the lyrics strongly reflect Scott's Christian faith. There is no watering down.
I discovered The Waterboys a few years ago when I picked up the previous release, "A Rock In the Weary Land." It featured Scott's unique voice, the Scottish-rock feel, and memorable songs that got stuck in my head for days. It encouraged me to pick up previous cds by them. I discovered that there seemed to be two distinct stages to Scott's music. The 80s had a harsher tone to them and suffered from typical 80s production. On the other hand, the 90s brought out a slicker rock n roll feel to The Waterboys. Most fans didn't like it as much as the old material.
I personally, having discovered the 90s albums before the 80s stuff prefer the new sound. I highly looked forward to the follow up to "A Rock In The Weary Land." Then it happened. I discovered the new cd by doing some internet searches. But alas, it was only released in Europe (and surrounding area). I crossed my fingers for an American release.
Finally it's here. What a major disappointment. While it contains that same general sound that trademarked the later material, the songs just aren't as good. "A Rock In the Weary Land" had songs which I'd think of off the top of my head, even though I hadn't listened to the cd for a few weeks. I'd yearn for those songs. The songwriting was just out of this world and the choruses were catchy as hell.
As I stand here typing I can't think of a single song off the new album. And that's not due to being underplayed. It just lacks the songs that make a listenable record. The guitar doesn't vary much in strum pattern or tone. There is no reason for me to listen to this cd.
The lyrics, personally, are the best part of this release. Scott's words always tend to resonate within me. It's rare for a band to be this blatant with Christianity, yet completely ignore the Christian Music Industry. And to still be successful in their market.
I would seriously encourage people unfamiliar with Scott's music to check out "A Rock In The Weary Land" and go from there. If you really enjoy his music then check this cd out. Otherwise just hunt up the other stuff.
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