Most Helpful Customer Reviews
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176 of 186 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Much more than buzzworthy. One of 2004's better releases., October 21, 2004
Although I usually like to review acts/releases that may not have received much attention, I also have to put in my 2 cents regarding the best and lesser CDs that I purchase as you guys here at Amazon.com are so helpful to me. While, Scissor Sister's self-titled debut CD has generated much buzz, this is one release that more than lives up to its buzz and should not be ignored as a novelty/fad act. This act's detractors only seem to see the group's many influences and don't see much else. While it is inarguable that Scissor Sister draw their influences from Elton John and musical genres not very popular in the US: art rock, glam rock, Seventies disco (maybe disco did have its heyday in the US), and even show tunes, those people seem to disregard not only that all groups (to greater or lesser degrees) are influenced by their predecessors, but that Scissors Sisters has managed to incorporate the above mentioned genres into something that is entirely accessible that is based singer-songwriter pop with strong lyrics, melodies, and impeccable production.
The CD opens with the muscular "Laura," which to me epitomizes what I like best about Scissor Sisters. Next comes, their huge break-out single in the U.S, "Take Your Mama," is obviously HEAVILY influenced by Elton John, it sounds like a million bucks and not like a rip-off. The third song, a cover of Pink Floyd's "Comfortable Numb," was their initial calling card in the U.K., and it's irresistible as it is completely redone and sounds like the Bee Gees meets a Giorgio Moroder production. Just try to get this song out of your head. I dare you ....
Next comes the gorgeous ballad titled "Mary," which starts out slowly like an earnest Robbie Williams ballad and then evolves into an Eltonesque anthem. I love the lyrics and particularly the choruses, which sound so soothing and simple, but must have taken much work to create the easy flow that this song evokes while moving from the ethereal to the piano-kicks. The comes "Lovers in the Backseat," which starts out in a somewhat detached glam rock-like fashion, but it does land with it's chorus and the images it evokes. I am not a huge fan of glam rock, but this song takes some of its fun elements and gives it a kick.
Next comes "T*its on the Radio," which is the only female-led vocal on the release. I think that is a female. It sounds like Human League meets Electric Light Orchestra and the results are outstanding. "Filthy/Gorgeous" is a dance floor masterpiece that combines the best of the 1970's with an 80's vibe. "Music is the Victim" sounds like the best song Sir Elton John never wrote. The song is driven by muscular drums and cheeky (I hope that was the intent) electric guitar breaks. I could go on about every single song, especially the epic finale "Return to Oz," but any more descriptions may take way from the many aces that this band has up its sleeve. This is easily one of 2004's better releases and one which has barely left my CD player, and since I buy way too many CDs this should say something about how strong I feel this release is. Scissor Sister's detractors may look at my review as further proof that the group lacks originality and I am not looking to convert or change the minds of those who have taken the time to listen to this CD; however if you are on the fence feel free to give them a chance as there is likely something that you'll like.
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72 of 81 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars
Rock Your Mama, August 7, 2004
Quietly in 2004 springs a funky and over-the-top group called the Scissor Sisters out of New York. Not intending to keep their flamboyance under wraps, these guys (actually 4 guys and a gal) have burst onto the scene with their ecletic fusion of electro-glam disco music that pays tribute to artists from the 60's to early 90's, such as the Bee Gees, David Bowie, Pet Shop Boys, Elton John and more.
Their cabaret-styled music such as the Pink Floyd cover Comfortably Numbed makes lead singer a dead ringer for Maurice Gibb of the Bee Gees with his excellent falsetto rendition. Elsewhere he repeats his falsetto vocals to great amusing effect (such as on Laura, Lovers In The Backseat and Music Is The Victim), as if you were right stuck in the 70's. Fret not though, for great production values add to this listening pleasures cos most songs are tinged with electronic effects. On current single, Take Your Mama Out, the group delivers new wave rock on a song about coming out to your mama in a g*y bar. There's also the irrelevant T*ts On The Radio which may spot silly lyrics but is really talking about conservatism on radio these days.
Finally, the anthemic It Can't Come So Quickly packs Nick Kershaw and Pet Shop Boys into one delicious package with a solemn and emotive delivery besides the other ballad Mary. Oh ya, catch those visually captivating videos of theirs on MTV, it'll sure make your day!
If you are looking for great music to cheer up, you'll never fail with the Scissor Sisters' self-titled debut. They are the rage in UK now, and hopefully they'll catch on in Stateside when they tour.
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17 of 17 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
A great debut - Not just for gays and women!, February 7, 2005
Ok, I've been reading the other reviews and all I have to say is get over the Comfortably Numb thing. I'm a big Pink Floyd fan, but -shock/horror- I thought this version was pretty sweet. I didn't really like it when I first heard it, but it's really grown on me.
As for the album, I thought it was brilliant. I admit I bought it for the singles, but when I listened to it, it just blew me away. Now just to get things clear: I'm 21, male, Irish and straight (I have a lovely girlfriend who likes the album too) and I have no problem admitting I like this album. Not only is it fun, but there's some really powerful stuff on there. The greatest song on it is Return to Oz. God, I just fell in love with this song. It has a real epic quality to it.
I wonder did any of the negative reviewers actually sit down and listen to the album. I'm guessing alot of them came in with pre-concieved notions (probably from hearing the singles) and knew they were going to hate it before they listened to it.
My advice? If you're not afraid to give something new a try, then get this album. It's not just for gay people and women.
Oh yeah, reviewers take note: Don't judge an album from one song or a live performance. That's just ignorant.
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