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3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
For better or worse, A.H.E. puts the Clarks on the radar, June 14, 2002
First, I think I should state that the only reason I'd even consider attempting to do justice to this album (and the band, for that matter), is my semi-shock at not finding a review of Another Happy Ending posted yet. I've been following the Clarks for only about a year, but now, almost reluctantly (I'm from Philly, they're from Pittsburgh...if you've ever spent time at Penn State, no more need be said) admit, that they're the best true rock band around. They adhere strictly to their own distinctive sound, a blend of classic rock riffs & modern rock hooks. Coupled with a listener posessing any knowledge of rock history, they quickly become the most addictive sound out there.
Going through the previous few albums, I've picked up on a progression from a mellow, slower sound to more of an upbeat & aggressive tune. (Listen to the self titled 'The Clarks', their second release, then move onto 'Let it Go', one of their more recent albums, and its tough not to notice). This doesn't bother me at all, but a few hard-core fans I know seem to be rubbed the wrong way by this. Another Happy Ending would apparently determine to them whether the Clarks were still the Clarks they've known since their days playing seedy Pitt bars.
Happily, it splits it right down the middle. Tunes like "Maybe", "Boys Lie", and the outrageously addictive "Hey You" seem to fall into the same upbeat and catchy basket as 'Let it Go', while the old-school fans were ecstatic to find them mixed with songs like "Twist My Arm", "Inside You", and "So You Can Sleep At Night".
Perhaps the Clarks' most impressive talent is their ability to write lyrics pertaining to relationships that run the gamut from bitter, angry and vengeful, to completely over-the-top in love. Being a great college band, the audience has really siezed on this, and, regardless of your current relationship status, its impossible not to be moved and sing along with "This Old House..." and "Love is What You Need". Scott Blasey and Greg Joseph penned the lyrics on everything on A.H.E., and these guys have either been through everything you have and more, or are aliens assimmilated into society who can read your mind.
Blasey, as always, is terrific as lead vocalist. The accompanying harmonies and beats complement the songs without ever overwhelming. On "On Saturday", the Clarks implement an off-the-wall bassline that sucks you in, and totally makes the song click.
Bottom line: they're still the Clarks. They're still the best rock band to ever come out of PA, and A.H.E. will undoubtedly get me through many late nights, coming home from the bars, happy or sad.
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2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
My Favorite CD Of The Year, January 23, 2003
This is the first review I've ever done and am doing it because I feel that it is the least I could do for a band that put out such an outstanding album.My introduction to The Clarks was back in the early 90's when my band opened for them at IUP. I didn't know their music then and therefore didn't get into their live show as much as I should have. The band seemed nice, but really didn't want to be bothered with talking to us prior to the show. I left that show with a mediocre feeling about the band and didn't understand the hype. A few months ago I picked up Another Happy Ending in Philly when I recognized the band name, but did not expect much. I could believe they were still plugging away and had to hear what they were up to. Another Happy Ending is the best CD I have picked up since purchasing The Rave-Ups 2nd album The Book Of Your Regrets years ago. Both albums are sincere, have a country twang at times, but rock out at others. Playing and production on the album is outstanding and I have a newfound respect for the band and hope they make it big. The CD has not left my car stereo in the past few months and I can still listen to it from start to finish. Every song is a keeper. I also picked up their previous album which is also very good. Good luck guys! You made a believer out of me.
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1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Best Album from the Best Band in America, February 21, 2005
There is no band in America that is more true to basic rock and roll than the Clarks. The music is simple, but creative. It's easy to relate to the lyrics and the beat is always up tempo. "Another Happy Ending" is by far their best album to date (even better than "Let It Go", which was hard to top). Their latest, "Fast Moving Cars", is good, but doesn't measure up to this masterpiece.
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