lambchops's Full Review: Blind Melon by Blind Melon
Blind Melon was one of the most promising bands in the early 1990’s alternative movement. Their sound was rock and roll with hints of wonder and woe. But little success would ever come to pass. Vocalist Shannon Hoon died in New Orleans after overdosing on drugs.
Formed in Los Angeles during1990, Blind Melon was held in little by the barriers set up by the era’s metal movement. The band looked to the past for inspiration. Hoon’s poetry and meekly powerful voice lent well to the kind of music created by bands of yore like Lynyrd Skynyrd and The Allman Brothers. The resulting sound was a perfect compliment to what would become a very depressing, low time in the American music scene thanks to ‘grunge.’
After just a year or so of work, the band was signed to Capitol. The big record deal led to opportunities for the band including Hoon’s vocal work with Guns n’ Roses. By 1992, the buzz had begun and in September the band released their self-titled debut album. Blind Melon toured non-stop in support of their album. The plan worked, Blind Melon went four times platinum eventually. The album also earned the band two Grammy nominations. Blind Melon was on the fast track to stardom.
But Hoon had problems. His bandmates, Thomas Rogers Stevens (guitar), Christopher Thorn (guitar), Brad Smith (bass), and Glen Graham (drums), watched as Hoon’s drug and alcohol abuse spiraled out of control. The band’s second effort had great promise, but critics and fans bashed Soup insisting that it was uninspired and lackluster. This was likely as a result of Hoon’s problems during it’s recording. The band’s tour in support of Soup was abruptly cut short by Hoon’s death on October 21st of 1995.
The remaining members released one more album before calling it quits. 1996’s Nico was a posthumous tribute to Hoon’s daughter. In retrospect, Blind Melon is still a good album. It was richer and fuller than some other albums from the same era. With guitars and melodies that sound like metal, rock, folk, and alternative music, the songs are appealing to a variety of listeners.
Hands down, the most popular track on this album is ”No Rain”. You know the one…the video featured the fabled ‘bee girl.’ Upbeat and shiny happy, ”No Rain” is an ode to life and freedom. The song bounces around, with Hoon’s vocals at the apex. Pushed along by fingers snapping and two masterfully played guitars by Stevens and Thorn. This is a truly wonderful, fantastic song, one that brightens any day I have the pleasure of hearing it. ”No Rain” is one of the most perfect songs of the early 1990’s. One verse speaks to the entire feeling and meaning of the entire track:
I just want someone to say to me
I'll always be there when you wake
Ya know I'd like to keep my cheeks dry today
So stay with me and I'll have it made
A second track from this album also was met with success and admiration. ”Tones of Home” is of equal caliber to ”No Rain”. Relying on a funk bass line, the song sounds like the most perfect jam session ever. The guitars are great, but what really is special is the funk bass from Smith. Of course another thing that really is wonderful about this track is Hoon. His lyrics (he wrote all the words on this album) and voice are wonderful, some would even go so far as to call them angelic. I will go so far as to call them enthralling. You can’t go wrong with this song.
”Change” is a beautiful, acoustic track. This is what roots rock should be, a simple guitar, harmonica, and voice. No question, this is the most emotionally touching song on the entire album. Hoon’s vocals are understated; a perfect compliment to a ridiculously perfect melody. Don’t get stuck on the two songs you’ve heard of here, ”Change” is a masterpiece unto itself.
Yet another song I particularly love is the great track ”Dear Ol’ Dad.” The musicianship (especially guitar) on that track is amazing. Also, don’t miss out on the superb ”Paper Snatcher”. This track (number four on the album) is energetic and filled with emotion. Hoon sounds like a seasoned rock and roller. The song speaks from the perspective a homeless person. The effect of the song is wonderful.
The final song I’d like to mention is also the final track from this debut album. ”Time” is epic. It’s driving and demanding. Hoon’s vocals are high and low. Sometimes he hides behind the music while at other times, he stands out. Listen to this entire album…right through to the 13th track.
Without a doubt, this is one of the most amazing albums of the first half of the last decade. I wish that Blind Melon could have been around longer, but Hoon just had too many problems. There are a few less stellar songs here like ”Sleepyhouse” and ”Holyman”. Despite those moments, this is a must own album.
Anybody who enjoys rock music infused with folk and funk should enjoy every moment of Blind Melon’s 1992 debut album. Don’t confuse this one with other copycat bands of the 1990’s. This is the real thing. Hoon represents great song writing and singing ability while the band (Stevens, Thorn, Smith, and Graham) complete the picture. Since there are a few duller moments, I will give Blind Melon just 4 stars. But don’t let that rating fool ‘ya. This is a must own.
Track Listing:
1. Soak the Sin
2. Tones of Home
3. I Wonder
4. Paper Scratcher
5. Dear Ol' Dad
6. Change
7. No Rain
8. Deserted
9. Sleepyhouse
10. Holyman
11. Seed to a Tree
12. Drive
13. Time
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