ALBUM REVIEW - Zero 7 - simple things
There is no doubt that simple things by the British duo Zero 7 is well produced. Crystal clear sounds, nice beats and a nice big smooth low end. Unfortunately, good production alone cannot make me like this disc. Now let me back up a bit. I don’t hate the cd, if someone popped it on, I wouldn’t leave the room (and believe me there are cd’s that, if played, would result in just that…strong convictions or just a big, crazy jerk…you decide). Anyway, there is just something about this cd that feels so very average…it totally and completely fades to the background no matter when I listen. Now I guess some people like that, but I believe that while music does not always have to be in the forefront in every situation it should always add something or contribute. I have never felt that with simple things. It has always dissipated into the ether...I am listening to it again as I write this and I am finding the rhythm of my clicking keyboard more engaging…wow, I actually set out to write a nicer review than this. Oh well.
In terms of highlights, the disc opens well enough with i have seen which has an excellent verse, but the song falls apart from me at the chorus and the groove goes from funk to cheese. in the waiting line, the “single” is cool as it reminds me of the scene from Garden State where the track was used to perfection – would I like the tune so much without those images to accompany it? I am guessing no. At this point I will gladly accept the rage of all the true Zero 7 fans who now know I bought this cd because of the single and that I am not a true fan – and to you I say “you’ve done it to me hundreds of times…forcing bands I like to play the crappy single when they get to play on TV or having to play it at every gig “wasting” a precious set list slot. Now we’re even you heathens!
Maybe what people describe as “chill” doesn’t wholly suit me and maybe I am missing the point, but this cd comes off as a slickly produced snoozefest which, minus a few moments, I find impossible not to ignore. Beauty and perfection don’t inevitably lead to good music.
Gaito says: I wish I had purchased something else. Don’t make the same mistake I did!
Favorite Tracks:
i have seen (verse only)
in the waiting line (call me a poseur….now!)
In terms of highlights, the disc opens well enough with i have seen which has an excellent verse, but the song falls apart from me at the chorus and the groove goes from funk to cheese. in the waiting line, the “single” is cool as it reminds me of the scene from Garden State where the track was used to perfection – would I like the tune so much without those images to accompany it? I am guessing no. At this point I will gladly accept the rage of all the true Zero 7 fans who now know I bought this cd because of the single and that I am not a true fan – and to you I say “you’ve done it to me hundreds of times…forcing bands I like to play the crappy single when they get to play on TV or having to play it at every gig “wasting” a precious set list slot. Now we’re even you heathens!
Maybe what people describe as “chill” doesn’t wholly suit me and maybe I am missing the point, but this cd comes off as a slickly produced snoozefest which, minus a few moments, I find impossible not to ignore. Beauty and perfection don’t inevitably lead to good music.
Gaito says: I wish I had purchased something else. Don’t make the same mistake I did!
Favorite Tracks:
i have seen (verse only)
in the waiting line (call me a poseur….now!)
posted by Gaito at 5:33 PM
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