Customer Reviews

Liars

5 star:		(77)
4 star:		(18)
3 star:		(8)
2 star:		(6)
1 star:		(4)

 

 

"Liars" is, simply, a triumph. After a string of underrated albums in the 90's, an album of bossa nova remixes, and an odds n' ends stopgag, Todd Rundgren has delivered his best album in..well, maybe ever.

This is not a return to the "Something/Anything?" sound. It still retains the industrial, electronic feel of his TR-i stuff, but he adds a heavy dose of soul, making it a sort of hybrid of old Todd and new Todd. It's mostly synthesizer based (although a guitar pops up on a couple songs), so even when Todd dips into sweet blue eyed soul, it's backed with warm electronics.

Also, this is a long, dense concept album. Every song deals with the truth of some sort. Whether it's lies about religion, love, politics, or the future. Songs like "Afterlife" and "God Said" (among others) are absolute pinnacles in Todd's songwriting.

The opener "Truth" (as well as "Living") straddles the line between intense (the thunderous dance beat, intense synthesizers) and hooky (the pop chorus). It's an entrancing, hypnotic opener.

"Sweet", on the other hand, is smooth blue eyed soul. The chorus is great, and the bridge is amazing. "Soul Brother" (the most organic sounding thing on here) is a bitter tirade on how phony and pathetic soul music has become in recent years. Although the bitter tone is overshadowed by the incredible catchiness and pop sensibility of the song.

"Stood Up" is both serious and lighthearted, lyrically; if nothing else, it's 5 minutes of lush, electro-pop bliss (with a colorful, almost psychedelic sheen). The industrial rock of "Mammon" attacks organized religion in a harsh way. And "Past" is a gorgeous, heartbreaking ballad, with Todd's vocals oozing soul throughout.

Like "Truth", "Living" has a pulsating dance beat; it's even more hypnotic than the former, as the chorus hook is to die for (probably the first song on here that really hooked me). All and all, not much else to say but this song ROCKS. There's also a rare guitar solo towards the end!

The aforementioned "God Said" is another epic ballad with a majestic, ambient feel throughout. As I said, one of Todd's all time greatest lyrical compositions. Just beautiful. Same with "Afterlife", which has the most euphoric bridge/middle eight I've ever heard. It's truly affecting, emotionally.

On the closer "Liar", Todd channels Trent Reznor in the abrasive, metal-like screams on the chorus. Easily the most intense song Todd has done. It was absolutely killer when he did it live, too.

Other highlights include the goofy "Happy Anniversary", the Prince-like "Flaw" (melodic MF-bombs and all), and the futuristic [duh] "Future".

Behind "A Wizard, a True Star", this is my favorite Todd album. And I've heard all of his albums. That's an impressive feat, but this album is *that* good. Don't be put off at first - it's an extremely long album (close to 80 minutes), so it'll take at least 5 listens to sink in. It honestly gets better with each listen - songs I didn't care for the first few times would randomly just 'click', until I got to the point where I loved everything on here!

Truly one of Todd's best, if not *the* best. And that's no lie.

AFTER a reviewer on this website had compared Todd Rundgren's "Liars" to sounding like the flip-side of his past classics such as "Initiation" and "Healing"...I was more than optimistic to purchase the album (even if the review seemed to reflect the album in a negative light). Ironically enough..."Liars" does highlight those albums in the fact that they are both thematic--"Healing" dealt with tapping into a means of mind over matter in a search for a cure-all illness resolution, while "Initiation" was more of a transcendental meditation in the quest for the meaning of life, as well as an expedition in finding the right spiritual path. The title of the latest exploration should serve as a hint of what the album is about, but for those who do not get it...Rundgren explains on the inner sleeve: "All of these songs are about a paucity of truth." Yes...Rundgren's latest effort deals not only with the current political situation, but observing a problem everyone is guilty of, that is, lying.

Released during a time of social turmoil when pointing the finger at that the real "evil doers" does more disaster than justice, Rundgren does not mention any names (anyone who purchased the interactive "the Individualist" knows exactly what I mean). But rather than pointing the finger (whatever finger that may be) at the right figure...this album observes the hypocrisy of all humankind. "Happy Anniversary" rings the dummy bell at the sexes and sexists with the brave yet truthful lyrics "men are stupid...women are evil," taking a peek view into the world of gossip and stereotyping heard in the babble of everyday conversation. "Soul Brother" deals with the death of the Motown sound and how soul has lost its spirit, hence: "And if you want to be a star/ Just grab your crotch and squeeze it hard..." Perhaps it's a slam at the "anyone can be rock star" generation of the latest corporate music phase introduced by "American Idol." And in a world of "extreme makeovers," "Flaw" reads beyond the cosmetic means in a man's struggle to find the women of his dreams: "And all my friends, they look at me/ Say 'she's a 10'...I know I should accept it all and overlook the little faults/But this one's a real deal breaker." In picking out the "flaw," the question is raised: "So why do you gotta be such a lyinass motherf***er?"

As for the sound goes..."Liars" is the most soulful album Rundgren has released since "Nearly Human." Yet it brings about some of his best recent efforts such as "Healing" and "Acappella." As with any album with the trademark Alchemedia name goes...has Rundgren ever put out a cheaply produced/engineered album...?

Yes, this album is all there...it is all Rundgren...just a different time in a different phase. Though this album will not get the radio play it deserves...it is perhaps the best album I have heard this year. Rundgren has not sold out, nor has he ignored his most prominent listeners. As in the past, he has remained intact with the recent social issues. He has once again found the most beautiful melodies to relate to the ignorance and greed of mankind. In the end all must remember...their is no guilt in telling the truth. Rundgren gives us "Just one Victory" once again! Thank-you Todd and all those who know!

Well, you can't listen to everything, so it's taken me 35 years to "discover" Todd Rundgren as a great musical artist. Of course I was familiar with his radio hits and would buy a used record once in a while, but this is the first Todd album that I've played repeatedly over a period of time. I guess I've got the rest of my life to catch up on his other stuff.

When I don't even need all the fingers on one hand to count the Sixties artists who are still making vital, relevant music in 2004, I can't believe some "fans" are carping because this doesn't sound just like something he did three decades ago. The lyrics are meaningful (now there's a twist on today's music) and witty, the production is crisp, and the singing and playing are great. Oh, yeah, and I saw Todd in concert for this first time this year, and he put on a helluva show.

I must confess that I am one of the few people on the planet who has enjoyed every single one of Mr. Rundrgren's albums in the past 10 years. The sole exception would be "With a Twist", which I didn't buy and have never listened to, because "remixed" or "re-arranged" compositions bore me (are you listening, George Lucas?). That being said, I can heartily recommend "Liars", Todd's latest offering, as his best work since "New World Order", which I thought was his best work since, well, "Hermit of Mink Hollow". (Many Todd fans didn't like NWO, probably because of its format; that was exactly the reason that I did like it, but then I'm funny that way, I like new concepts) But I digress. Every song on this CD is unique, in terms of rhythm, instrumentation and style. It is somewhat keyboard/synthesizer driven, but the sound quality is awesome ( I got the Japanese pressing, just couldn't wait for the pokey USA release). Todd's vocals are great, he really stretches on some cuts. Everyone seems to have their own favorite songs, mine are "Truth", "Past/Future" (2 separate cuts that are similar but with different arrangements and tempo), "Afterlife" and "Living". "Living" really rocks with some powerful drum work and includes the only extended guitar work of any song on the CD. That would be my only gripe, that Todd didn't have more lead guitar work included here. Otherwise, the CD shows an artist who is definitely not slowing down with age, but continuing his track record as an eclectic, exciting composer and performer. By the way, the Japanese version has a totally different cover/artwork (better, in my opinion) the the USA release.

I first became "entranced" by Todd Rundgren as a 14-year old, having read a Record Review interview with my then-hero, Pete Townshend of The Who, in which he said TR was a better singer and guitarist than he was. 24 years later, older and wiser, I am still an enormous fan and supporter and awaited "Liars" with great anticipation. I was not disappointed.

It must be said that Rundgren's input over the past 10 years has been neglible, forgettable and minimal, at best. After 1989's masterpiece, "Nearly Human" and it's 1991 follow-up, the good but mixed "Second Wind", TR wallowed in an experimental never-never land that only hardcore fans such as I could tolerate. We saw flashes of the old brilliance on the 1995 tour for "The Individualist", but original material, when such came, was spotty and confused. Rundgren's flirtation with rap and overt political themes showed him on unfamiliar territory.

That said, "Liars" is, after such a long wait, a fine work, which highlights Todd's talent while simulataneously exposing his weaknesses. Of course, after the disaster which was "One Long Year" in 2000, anything original and complete by Our Hero would be welcome. "Sweet", the best track on "Liars" and probably the best single track TR has written since "Parallel Lines", holds up as a Marvin Gaye-esque slice of pure Rundgren/Philly Soul heaven. The acerbic "Soul Brother", TR's take on the wasteland which is modern R&B, is irrestible, complete with Stevie Winwood/Timmy Thomas Hammond organ and Herbie Mann-style flute solos. Also strong are the pulsing opening "Truth", the lovely "Past" (as upfront and honest as TR has been about love relationships since "Can We Still Be Friends"--though I have to ask: who the hell is "Sam"?)."Afterlife" and "God Said" are poignant, ephemeral pieces that strike me with a sad sense of finality, though both are gorgeous songs, similar to the metaphysical fullness and omniscient worldview that made "Fade Away" from "Hermit.." such a moving number. The Prince-like "Flaw" is also as funky and soulful as anything TR has ever penned, though the obscenity really is out of place and unnecessary: an artist like Todd shouldn't have to resort to shock to get our attention.

The weak parts of "Liars" are the politics. Todd should stick to great music and interpersonal/solipistic lyrics, not world affairs. TR's leftist cliches have hurt his latter-day work and "Liars" is no exception. Tracks like "Mammon" and "Liar" are fine musically, but are lyrical equivalents of chael Moore trying to explain Ayn Rand: It don't cut it. As a libertarian, it pains me to see other reviewers refer to Todd as a "deep thinker" solely because he trots out anti-Bush/anti-capitalist claptrap.

All said, though, "Liars" is a very strong, moving piece of music. Yes, I, too, would have preferred real instruments instead of programmed machines; but, as usual, the soul comes through in the poignant, real and touching voice that is Todd Rundgren. He remains a largely unheralded, unrecognized American pop music treasure, the mad wizard who synthesized the Beatles, the Beach Boys, Hendrix, Philly soul and now--techno--into one total, irrestible music package.

And, yes, we can hear traces of past Todd works on "Liars": "Flaw" recalls the sound of "Love Thing", "Future" has the techno-drum beat from "Jerk" and "Living" starts off just like "Day Job". Nevertheless, "Liars" is as good a pop record as you will hear in 2004 from anyone.

First got to know Todd from college DJ years playing Something/Anything wonder load. But one listen to liars and Todd is peaking NOW! This is the best concept CD to come out in a long time. Google 'Mammon' for more insight .... the music is so uplifting ... 'Future' is soooo sweet. Soul Brother is soooo true. Truth is the perfect opener (esp. on headphones) and Liars is what the world has been needing to hear! It is talks to us personally and politically. It is about the dream of the planet, our country, and what we choose to create every moment. Get this CD now! u won't be sorry! Tell your friends!

Really strong effort from Todd. His sonic palette this time around is a high tech, keyboard and sequencer based sound, which is a little startling at first. Reports are the whole thing was recorded on his Mac. Whatever - - the songs here are his strongest in ages. Hooks abound. Plus, lyrically he deals with a variety of "big" issues - - aging, death, truth, love the nature of life - - in a non-cheesy and soulful way. Clearly, he was inspired on a musical and philosophical level this time around. So nice to see an artist of this caliber return to form like this.

Todd Rundgren has made the wait well worthwhile... he has never sounded better, and that is saying something, given his prodigeous creative output. Todd's new material is a collection of intelligent, insightful, creative and beautifully crafted songs that link together into an exquisite tapestry of both melodic and energetically engaging sound, and punctuated by sharp, playful and poignant lyrics.

'Liars' is the quintessential 'concept' album, something that I thought was extinct. And, at a period in time when many people are waking up to the illusionary nature of our existence, it relevance could not be more timely. As is usually the case with Todd's greatest work, his lyrics are clever and lead one to perceptions that go beneath the surface of things. And never more so than on this album. I've been listening to it for the last two weeks and find it hard to listen to anything else.

'Liars' explores the concept of 'truth' from a variety of angles. The way each song links to the next creates a singular adventure from album start to conclusion. For me, Todd's best work has been an expression of both pure honesty and a genuine appreciation of beauty. This man is fueled by passion, and its plainly evident here.

There are many gorgeous melodies interwoven on Liars that vary in mood as they move in a sea of changing rythmns. The disc grabs the listener's attention right from the start with the relentlessly engaging techno-styled 'Truth', followed by the smooth R&B track, 'Sweet' and just never quits. And, as always, Todd's humor is ever present and sharp. I love the sarcastic 'Happy Anniversary' and 'Flaw'. That one line 'obscenity' is perfect... and is so 'Rundgren', complete with the backing vocal refrain! Gotta love it.

'Stood Up' is very clever, a wonderfully put together piece with a strong hook and unexpected musical changes. 'Future' is a sound canvass that so truely captures the optimistic emotions of my youth when I considered the promised 'world of the future'. It's a trip. The refrain, 'The future is now', brings for me added depth and melancholy. It's like an acknowledgment that something has 'gone wrong' with the vision. Like, 'What happened to the rosey vision?' It wasn't suppose to turn out like this!' On the other hand, I think Todd may have an authentic appreciation for the present moment, as echoed in the repeating refrain.

I've been waiting to hear a song like 'Soul Brother' for a long time. And in this song, Todd says it perfectly: 'If you want to be a star, grab your crotch and squeeze it hard'... a perfect commentary on the wasteland of todays 'commercial' music culture and the dissappearance of true 'soul music'. I gotta admire the heck outta the guy. He's got balls to tell it like it is!

'Afterlife' is absolutely mesmerizing. Just gorgeous to the ears. It may be destined to be my very favorite TR song ever (and I've already have quite a few!). 'Living' is right up there with it. It's one of the most amazing high energy tunes I've ever heard. Very powerful. It contains perhaps the most tasteful electric guitar work that Todd has laid down. Next up is the real paradigm shattering track, 'God Said'. Here Rundgren takes on the most sacred cow of religion. This is an incredibly honest piece that is framed in a dialog between and man and his Creator. And, its wrapped up in a gorgeous melody and very etherial soundscape... It is very affecting. As alluring as the music is, it is the lyrics that is the most impactful here... 'just get over yourself', with the message being made clear: We all tend to make God into our own image. It's quite powerful and I've never heard another pop song like it. Again, Todd isn't afraid to ask the most important questions in life and examine the most sensitive of topics.

The album ends with 'Liar'. The least 'pretty' track on the disc, this is a discordant, appropriately angry track that is wrapped up in middle-eastern sounds that swirl around a pulsating sound of pure angst. Bare-to-the-bones, uncensored statements illuminating the many lies put forth to faciliate excuses for war are obviously aimed at 'the powers that be' behind todays Iraq conflict: "and you lead them to their death, with your every lying breath." It's intense, but given the theme of the album, is an apt inclusion. Again, I applaud his courage to tell the truth!

In exploring truth and lies, Todd guides us in an exhilerating examination of the various illusions in our lives and gives us a glimpse of the world of all possibilities. It is a remarkable statement by one of our most progressive and talented of creative visionaries.

Liars is an outstanding effort by a masterful musician, lyricist, and vocalist. The style is a fresh, unique, and a high-tech presentation of haunting lyrics that will leave one craving to hear them over and over. The energy of the album will drain you; the messages in the lyrics will haunt you; the vocals will satisfy you that Todd is still the most talented songwriter/producer of the day. Awesome songs include Stood Up, God Said, Afterlife, Future, all deep themes of life put to music as Todd fans have come to love. A few hard driving songs may irritate your soul (as he intended), but this is one collection you cannot, cannot do without. Way to go Todd, don't stop.

The talent exhibited on this album by Mr. Rundgren is literally dripping off of every track. It's too bad I didn't hear this album before I saw him in St. Louis, for I would have appreciated his performance even more. Beautifully constructed songs with tremendous hooks. This is an album you'll be constantly playing. There are two or three marginal songs, but the rest are exceptionally strong.