"Instead" feels like multiple songs spliced together. There are these distinct sounds and while calling the sections "movements" might be a bit of an overstatement, the song does shift through a few ideas before coming to an end. There are some exotic sounds blended with some Southern rock. Smith has the ability to sing a style similar to the late Shannon Hoon, but doesn't have the same sound. Hoon's voice was sometimes a bit much for me. Smith's is actually quite tuneful and smoother. There are percussion loops and flute melded with acoustic Southern rock and Smith's overdubbed harmonies.
I'd like to tell you "Instead" should have been a hit with a little bit of promotion and some A&R goob working on behalf of the record, but just because I can listen to it 20 times in a row (which I did yesterday) doesn't mean anyone else is going to. On the other hand, some Hollywood producer thought enough of it to use it in a hit television show and I did listen to it 20 times in a row. There is an audience out there for this record and they don't even know it. Spend a buck at the iTunes store and find out if you're part of it.
Article comments
1 - Mat Brewster
We need to get Phillip to work out some sort of deal so that these VCV songs can be streamed in your articles. I'd very much like to hear this one now.
2 - Matt Dingledy
Brad Smith and all of the members of Blind Melon are amazing artists. I am glad you found this album. Remember though that part of the beauty of it is that it hasn't been played ad nauseum on the radio since its release. There is plenty more material out there by these guys. I encourage you to seek it out.
3 - Ol
Hello from Australia!
I love this little album.. My favourite songs off of it are "Instead" and "Sharp Edges" (the acoustic riff in SE really gets stuck in my head, very catchy!).