TC 2008-11-24
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I think this album is a thoughtful and passionate one delivered w/ confidence from a band who is stretching its musical palate. Much like Wilco did with their disc "Yankee Hotel Foxtrot", MMJ is declaring that their interests are, and will most likely remain, in flux. They will not simply be thought of as a sweet new twist on southern rock. True, this is not the first time they have indicated that and delivered on it, but this is a more realized package in that respect. In fact, James' falsetto vocal deliveries and the musical distinctions between the 3 opening tracks leave you wondering if the more traditional MMJ sound is gone for good. Track 4 answers that question with a no, and throughout the cd, their more hallmark qualities surface. But what I love about the album is that, while not perfect by any means, it establishes MMJ as a band on an artisitic mission....still hungry. I believe it sends a signal that interesting things are in store.
I am not comparing them to the Beatles per se, but think about how fans must have been feeling when "Rubber Soul" and "Revolver" ushered in the latter half of their career together, or when U2 released "Unforgettable Fire"...or when the Clash released "London Calling." (OK wait, it's nowhere near that good!) But simply put, it is exciting to hear a band making it clear that is not going to rest on its laurels and still has a sense of both experimentation and musicality.
Worth a listen.
