Customer Reviews

Swollen & Small: The Songs of Neutral Milk Hotel

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

 

 

What an unnecessary embarrassment. These covers neither take the songs in a new direction nor pay even a glance of homage to the originals. They are cheap, flat and carry all the cop-out rawness and bleating pretense of a bad open-mic night. I'm not sure why this record was even made, unless it's coattail-clinging, because it sure doesn't sound like a tribute or reinvention. Take away Jeff Mangum's words and it's empty. Neutral Milk Hotel is sacred territory for many critics and listeners alike (I love their music so deeply, I feel almost protective of it, so please qualify my subjectivity). I'm sure Viking Moses loves them too, but that doesn't justify the carelessness of this record. I'd push up my granny glasses and call it irritating, irresponsible even. There's a reason that, despite considerable attention, these songs weren't covered for eleven years. I wish Viking Moses got that.

I know this isn't within everyone's musical tastes, but I very much enjoy it. I like the mellow interpretations of Mangum's songs, it's definately a great addition to a Neutral Milk Hotel fan's music collection. Though, if you're not a big fan of NMH, this might not be right for you. Furthermore, don't go off and post a one-star review just because you're not into this kind of music. Do you want me to post a one-star review on a record you like? It's cruel and unfair, so don't do it.