Calodar's Full Review: Songs from an American Movie, Vol. 1: Learning How...
I am a HUGE Everclear fan. I love them. The first time I saw this one in stores, I ran out to buy it. I have not been dissapointed in the least.
First, for those that don't know, a little about the band. Craig Montoya is the bassist, and also does backing vocals, and some percussion. I have to say that he is very good at what he does, but as I dont know much about the Bass, I cant really say how good. The drummer, Greg Elklund, who does backing vocals, and also plays the Ukelele, Orchestra bells, and other percussion. He is an outstanding drummer, and can can really keep a beat. The lead singer and guitarist, Art Alexakis is amazing. He can squeeze notes from his guitar with a kind of liquid grace, and his voice is unbelievable. It is very soothing, and melodic, and also has a great deal of power. (In other words he can sing REAL loud when he wants to.) His voice is just captivating and beautiful. They are a great line up, and one of my favorite non-hard bands.
Now for the album. Is is a work of musical art as only Everclear can create. Its slow, Its fast, its sad, its fun. Its thought provoking, but you can dance to it. The guys have every right to be extremely proud of themselves. The first track on the album, Song From an American Movie pt 1, has wonderful lyrics, but the music gets real annoying real fast. I have to say its the only song I dont like on the album. All the other songs are superbly done, but the real standout track is, without a doubt, Wonderful. It is a truly great song. The music is masterful, the lyrics are powerful enough to draw tears, and Art songs at his very best. I would have bought this CD for full price only for this one song. Other standouts include Here We go Again, AM Radio, and Learning How to Smile. There is also a very interesting and well done cover of the song Brown Eyed Girl. It sounds like a new song.
All in all, this is a terrific album, and I eagerly await what Everclear has for next time.
On their fourth release for Capitol Records, the Portland, Oregon band reveal an expanded musical range and willingness to kick down new doors, demons...More at Buy.com Marketplaces
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