The Sound of the Life of the Mind represents Ben Folds Five's fourth studio album and first set of new music in 13 years. Ben is one of the best talents there is in music right now and he and his band members show just why that is true on their new album. The Sound Of The Life Of The Mind kicks off with a slice of brash infectious pop called "Erase Me" which is one of the best songs Ben's written throughout his more than rock solid career. The very Beatles influenced song has so much great stuff going on with in its grooves that one listen is absolutely not enough to encompass all the stellar things that are playing through your speakers.From the greatest Rock N' Roll Band Of All-Time the trio move into the California sound of the Beach Boys with next track. The song showcases Ben's excellent voice and his grand illusions that float around in his mind. Another pure stroke of genius is "Michael Praytor, Five Years Later" that is surely to be all the rage in the hipster/indie scene. Anyone who's a fan of the Kinks or Joe Jackson should be in line at the record store to pick this album up on release day.
This is the first Ben Folds Five album that has been this good. They sometimes reach for lofty heights but just miss not so this time, the trio hit their mark on every single track. The Sound Of The Life Of The Mind feels familiar with the Five’s ubiquitous three-part harmonies and Sledge’s fuzz bass, while more in common lyrically with the mature themes of Folds’ solo career: the Elliot Smith-esque waltz “Thank You for Breaking My Heart” may be his best ballad yet, while his penchant for filthy humor shines on “Draw a Crowd” with the chorus, “If you can’t draw a crowd/Draw dicks on the wall.”
In closing this album is polished and gleaming with stunning production and craftsmanship. Every detail is placed perfectly delivering one of my favorite listening experiences of 2012. This is one of those albums that will make my deserted island playlist without a doubt.
0 comments:
Post a Comment