Customer Reviews

Beautiful Machine

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I'd heard the bass player (Kipplenger?) say in an interview that this album would be much lighter in tone than the last (love is the new hate), which was largely fueled by anger about the wars in the middle-east. It is. There seems to me to be more than a little Midnight Oil influence. I mean, I would have conjured up the comparison without knowing that they are both from down-under nations.

I am a rocker, by nature, so I can't say I wasn't disappointed; but, in fairness, these are all still well written, smart, and artful songs. It just sort of baffles me that the same band can produce the range of styles and textures this band has, over their history. This is another reason I still rate this effort so highly, but, if you're expecting anything in the same realm as "empty shell" (and bound to such a style)- wait for their next release. Who knows?

To the band...wow! You guys are truly remarkable chameleons. Keep me guessing- I like that!

ted o.
ventura, ca. 9/08

Okay I'm a huge Shihad fan so I'm a bit biased, but this is one of the best albums I've heard in a while. It has a solid sound throughout. The band takes a bit of a nostalgic step with this album as it frequently reminds me of their self-titled. brilliant lyrics with (a shock to me) no vulgarities makes this one a safe album for kids, yet obviously a very mature sounding album. The only thing that might be a downer for some of the Shihad fans is that they do sound a little more radio-ready on this album, but not in any way like the Pacifier album. Definitely worth a listen, and in my book, totally worth a buy.

For U.S. listeners/shoppers, this album is in the same vein as Stone Temple Pilots, Pearl Jam, and the Foo Fighters.

Great album with some great new sounds mixed in. The album has funky beats which gives the songs a competely different element. There's also some great guitar layering sounds. Polished album.