Back in 1994, after the popularity of his hit Loser finally began to die down on both radio and MTV, Beck was for the most part, labeled a one hit wonder who we would probably never hear from again, at least not in any major way. The small independant release One Foot in the Grave flopped, and critics were shouting "told ya so" from one end of the country to the other. However, then Odelay dropped on us, and the critics were astounded. Here was the same person who wrote the anthem for an entire "slacker" generation, who was now producing one of the most original and diverse albums ever released.
It took me 2 years after this CD's 1996 release to add it to my CD collection. I thought the radio singles were catchy yet it just didn't seem like something I could take a whole album of. And then I heard the song Jackass and it was at that moment that I knew I had to have this album. What I got when I got home was a sonic experience few bands have been able to do. Much like Dylan used his voice to create his own universe, Beck uses sounds and imagery to turn his vocals into a whole new musical universe.
The retro stylings of The New Pollution shows Beck doing what I wish he would do more often:mix rock songs with his blend of pop. Devils Haircut is more of the same, although this one is funky even, the driving drumbeat adds another layer of sonic beauty to it.
There's also the electronic stylings of Where It's At, a number that is funky, original, and different from anything else on the album. The Beastie Boys owe a mighty large debt to Beck for their song Intergalactic.
However, at heart, Beck is still amazing with just an acoustic guitar in his hands, singing his heart out. Sure there are some other effects on Jackass but it isn't really an integral part of the song. No, the heart of that song is Beck and his guitar.
Perhaps the best way to sum this album up is to say that Beck accomplishes with Odelay what the Beastie Boys were trying to accomplish with Ill Communication. He takes you on a musical adventure, full of musical styles and influences. However, unlike the Beastie Boys CD, this album flows well, and works well. Here's an example of one album that deserved every single Grammy it got.
Epinions.com periodically updates pricing and product information from third-party sources, so some information may be slightly out-of-date. You should confirm all information before relying on it.
- Add to My Yahoo!: 
- Add to Google Homepage: 
© 1999-2009 Shopping.com, Inc.