My Morning Jacket

I just wanted to go ahead and start this thread so people don't post where people might accidently read it.  I don't actually have the album yet and I just got to work so....I'm now embarking on what will probably be the longest 8hrs. of my life.  Oh wait, is that my stomach getting sick, it feals like I might have a fever. ;D

QuoteI'm now embarking on what will probably be the longest 8hrs. of my life. ÊOh wait, is that my stomach getting sick, it feals like I might have a fever. ;D

i know, right?

*taps foot, twiddles thumbs

hmmmm

*Spolier Alert.  You've twice been warned*

wow! I'm not sure what to think.  I always have to listen to their albums more than once to really get a feel for it, but I'm pretty sure I liked it.  There were some songs that were simply amazing (knot comes loose, wordless chorus), others I'm not so sure about (into the woods, anytime).  All of the album versions of the songs I'd already heard didn't disappoint.  It's too bad Oxen isn't on the album , but I wouldn't really fit, so I see why they left it off.  Hope to catch it on a b-side.  
The style of the album is definately a departure.  Sounds more like hi-fi Month of Sundays stuff rather than the new mmj album, but that's not a bad thing.  I think it's great that they can continue to evolve,  This album reaches to the upper stratosphere and achieves weightlessness at moments.  
It did kind of suck to not have the linear notes.  When are those going to leak?

aMillion, listen to "off the record" backwards.. you can hear a voice saying very random things.. i'm not joking

it's towards the end.. well towards the beginning if you are listening to it backwards

I heard that, and I thought about listening to it backwards, but I don't know how.  Maybe I'll wait for the vinyl.  It is very 'Stawberry fields forever'.  Can you tell what he's saying.  It's not "Tom is dead", is it? ;)

something like "burn burn burn" and then after a while it says "there's only two ways (something)" and then a bunch of other stuff i havent made out yet

Strange! does the music sound decent in reverse.  I thought maybe they were hinting for us to listen to more of it backwards, perhaps.  Does it sound like Jim's voice or someone else's?

that song sounds amazing backwards.. not sure about the rest yet.. but no it doesnt sound like jim's voice

hey there fellow worst.fans.ever.  haha, just kidding.  i notice we three musketeers are only willing to come forward now?  i feel its an album that will take multiple listens to absorb some of the changes.  dondante exploded all my expectations, as i made sure i listened to that one first.  lay low is a stand out.  im not sure about anytime, probably my least favourite by far.  i love in to the woods, except for the drums that seem to offset the texture of the rest of the song.  more thoughts later after my three hour late night drive!   :D

****BIG SPOILERS*******

just listened to the album in its entirety and there are elements to the album that are different to anything they've ever done. I really don't think you can compare this to any other record they've put out. Luckily some of the new sounds are they pulled off perfectly. (i'll get more into it later) so here's my thoughts of the album track by track.

Wordless Chorus

the first words out of my mouth when the song finished were "holy shit". it's really just incredible. if i had to compare it to anything it would probably be mmj trying to be the flaming lips and then jim morphing into some 70s r&b singer by the end. you really have to hear it to understand. 9.5/10

It Beats for You

when i heard it live, i thought it kind of dragged a bit and was repetitive, luckily they've taken care of that in the studio. and was that actually somebody whistling at the end of the song? but still with a record of so many good tracks, this one gets kind of shoved to the back, imo. and it's not a bad song by any means. 7.5/10

Gideon

some great guitar work on this one. love the kind of space type feel to it. add in some catchy lyrics and nice vocals from jim and you've got a great song. 9/10

What a Wonderful Man

great rocker that for the most part sounds the same live, but i noticed something that appears on some of the other songs on the album. it seems that they were messing with jim's reverb a bit. in some songs (like gideon, dondante) the reverb seems normal, but in this song and others (lay low, off the record) it seems tuned down a bit. i'm not saying it's a bad thing, jim has a great voice with or without the reverb, it just takes some getting used to. 9/10

Off the Record

Great kind of reggae type rocker. one of the best on the album. really like the way the lyrics flow and the little keyboard part in the middle. though i'm as intrigued as anybody else to what that voice was saying at the end. 10/10

Into the Woods

This one didn't click with me. maybe i need to listen to it more, because i didn't have a good attitude going into the listening. it just seems a little too odd for mmj. and the "babies in blenders" line always makes me scratch my head. 4.5-5/10

Anytime

This one is growing on me a bit. Jim just seems a little off, with all the yeeeaaahhhs and some vocal notes. Still dig the solo and the chorus. 7.5-8/10

Lay Low

Out all the tracks i heard live, i liked this one the most, and thankfully it sounds as good in the studio as it does live. love the lyrics, vocals, and especially the transition in the middle of the song. 9.5/10

Knot Comes Loose

Blew me away when i heard it, just a classic soft mmj song. loved the whole band being in there with the pedal steel guitar, piano, acoustic guitar, and shakers. beautiful. 10/10

Dondante

This along with Off the Record, might be the best on the album. It just kicks ass. The "You had me worried" line with the band crashing in, is the best part about "Z" hands down. Classic. 10/10

Holy SHIT!!!!!!!!!!!!  To much stuff to comment on but, Wordless Chorus is a really exciting song a departure and a extreamly succesful one at that.  The whistiling on the end of it Beats For You blew my fucking head off.  I know it's Andrew Bird no one on else on earth can whistle like that.  I'm suprised "Anytime" isn't getting the love it deserves.  Sounds like they wrote this one about the time Jim decided to start covering "I Could Never Take The Place Of Your Man"  It's one of those songs I just want to shout the lyrics to outloud, mark my words it will soon be a concert classic......"Is this climbing up to the mooon, or is it bailing out to soon."  Great album, A treasure chest of songs filled with unique jem after jem.  Prouction is stellar and very spacy, the music creates an entire universe to submerge yourself in.  You can truly get lost in this record.  I'm really pleased with all the diffrent instrumentation and texture, there is so much going on you could literally hear something new with every listen for years to come.      

Wait, so Knot Comes Loose is actually not a reworked version of Oxen?

Nope, It's Brand Spankin new.  A beautiful song, quite possibly the most beautiful they've ever written.  

I can't get over how amazing the production on this record is.  The vocals are recorded with perfection.  "Off The Record" has a really cool fresh sounding type reverb.  I think the band opened up a whole new can of worms with this album.  I remember Beck saying in an interview that he was glad that he made Mutations and Sea Change when he did before he couldn't anymore.  I guess what he was saying is that instead of becoming pigon holed as a guy that creates sampled music like Odelay over and over, he was able to do the singer songwritter stuff in between Odelay and Guero, and now people look at him more as just a artist with a lot of different ways of expressing himself than associating him with a particular sound.  After Z, I don't think anyone can refer to MMJ as "that southern rock band" or "that alt. country band".  They'll just have to say "that exciting and magical new Rock Band."  If I was going to label the particular sound on this record I would call it interstellar space rock. ;D        

I guess at this point I'm discussing the album with myself.  The only thing that makes me sad about listening to the record early is I can't share it and talk about it with everyone. :'(  On a happier note, How bout' Bo Koster.  I think he really contributed so much to this record.  I'm so glad he joined the band.  The piano and organ all over this record is absolutly amazing and really creates a nice atmosphere and mood.  Ok, I'm going to try and stop talking about this record for a while.  

I think Brian's right about their new sound. I think Jim probably got tired of hearing about how they're the new Allman Brothers and the southern rock thing has got old for me, too and I do have to sit through every interview.  But I assure you that Lynard Skynard never put out an album like this!  I think that the keys are amazing on this record, I don't thnk danny cash could have pulled it off.  The guitar work is great, I just wonder how much of it is actually Jim, he seems to be taking more guitar solos in concert since quaid left the band.  This album definately showcases mmj's' extroverted side of things.  I wonder if it's called Z because its so far removed from everything they've already done.  from A to Z

Good to hear all these comments. I'm looking forward to hearing it, but I can wait awhile. There's nothing wrong with advance listening in my book. I've seen this John Leckie guy's name pop up a lot more in my rock history reading, now that I'm aware of it, so I'm sure the production is great. I'm glad to see that they've gone in another direction.

working on figuring out the messages in 'off the record'É

whoosh, whoosh, burn burnÉ
no matter how É
gruntledÉ
there's only two ways toÉ
oh my jesusÉ
lionelÉ
etherÉ
here's a clueÉ

[still working on it]

QuoteAfter Z, I don't think anyone can refer to MMJ as "that southern rock band" or "that alt. country band".  They'll just have to say "that exciting and magical new Rock Band."  

Oh yeah sweatboard!!! They keep shapeshifting. Z is Awesome!

hehe, sean, i'm glad i'm not the only one trying to figure out what that fucking voice is saying

The songs does sound amazing backwards, but I don't have the foggiest idea what he is saying or who is saying it.  

This album is magnificent...I can't stop listening to it...woke up this morning with "Knot Comes Loose" going on in my head...anybody else hear a lot of Neil Young in that song?I like every track on it.I can't wait till the commercial release so I can get the lyrics down..specially on "Anytime"...I was trying to figure out what the chorus is.

And how in the hell are ya'll getting the CD to play backwards?  ???

Yeah, isn't there a way to make mp3's play backwards? Some program? I'll look into it, anyone know? post it here por favor.  ;)

you can download a small audio editing program (audacity is pretty small and easy to use i think) and reverse the track

or you can stand on your head and listen to it  :D

yeah, i just took the second half of off the record out and reversed it in peak. pretty crazy. if anyone gets some more of what he's talking about, post it here.

Hell I give in...

How the hell are you getting the songs!!!!

Send me a private messege or something!

i'm very pumped to see everybody liking it.  i have no way of getting it, being as i don't have any downloader, and i don't belong to oink, so i'll probably just wait like i always do.

anyway, i just realized it was Into the Woods played at Randolph Street Festival, right after Run Thru. so that gives people six of the songs featured live so far.


i am eager to hear Knot Comes Loose, it seems to be getting rave reviews.

into the woods is a really interesting waltz filled with strange and somewhat surreal fragments (sonically and lyrically) of childhood.

lol tony.. we knew you wouldnt last long.. welcome to the dark side

QuoteHell I give in...

How the hell are you getting the songs!!!!

Send me a private messege or something!

Joined the dark side did ya. ;D  Muhahahahaha.  Now let's take bets on how long Meg and John can hold out. ;)  

mind blowing, this is the record of the year, no doubt.

knot comes loose is fucking killing me.

I listen to it again today and it was weirder this time somehow.  It's really going to take me a while to make a fully formed opinion about this album.
BTW, I think someone should send John and Meg the files and tag them to see if they get opened. ;)

help with lyrics:

## knot comes loose ##

baby baby can't you see that i'm smiling
can't you see there's a part of me that's ?? bright mood ??
used to be there's a part of me that liked hiding
but night (knot?) comes through

deep in my heart
that's where the knot comes loose
deep in my heart
i will remember you

all my lovely life i been waiting
high heels anticipating
?? that a love i found not to let it die
i...

deep in my heart
that's where the knot comes loose
deep in my heart
i will remember you

baby baby can't you see that i'm smiling
can't you see there's a part of me that's ?? bright mood ??
used to be there's a part of me that liked hiding
but knot comes through
but knot comes through
comes through to you

I can't get enough of "Anytime" it makes me feel so fucking good.  I really enjoy the fact that this album does not seem at all suited for the radio but if they were going to get some airplay this would probably be the song to do it with.  It's the feel good hit of the fall.  

tru dat brian

i dont seem to like 'anytime' at all right now, but like a lot  of people, i think this has a lot of things to absorb through multilple listenings.  however, just after 2 listens ive come to accept and actually like the drums in 'in to the woods'.  maybe it was a late night car ride or will take more getting used to, but i dont seem to live the overall production.  if theres one thing jim knows, its reverb.  it seems uneven and not cohesive at certain moments.  ill probably have different thought every day for a while, so its still early. overall, its fucking excellent and im just talking about the minute things i dont care for too much, instead of gushing too much too soon!   ;D ;D

yeah, i'm not feeling anytime yet, either. it's not gonna stop me from trying, though.

Quoteyeah, i'm not feeling anytime yet, either. it's not gonna stop me from trying, though.

Word.  The fact that we aren't feeling it yet probably just means that sweatboard is right, it's going to be their biggest hit yet.

I love the way he sings "to" in "is this climbing up TO the moon"  Yeah, at first I thought it was a little awkward the way it goes into the chorus and I wasn't sure if the chorus and verse suited each other perfectly but after hearing it a few times I have come to relize it does flows well it's just a case of an amazing verse section and an amazing chorus section batteling for supremecy.  They're both so fucking good you can't believe they're both in the same song.  Once I stopped trying to figure out which one I wanted to focus on as the engine of the song and just heard the song as a whole it started coming together.  At this point it just absolutly kills me from start to finish.

favorite part of the whole song is at the beginning where he says "daamn.."

and then i love the high "aaaahh aahh ahhh"s

you know, i'm talking to megan in the shows thread, and then i come back to this spoiler thread, and i think to myself how much it's killing her to not click on this thread and read it all and just say "fuck it someone send it to me please".. i dunno if they'll make it until october 5..

if they do make it that long.. here's our chance to trash talk them as much as we want without them knowing anything about it  ;D

Quoteworking on figuring out the messages in 'off the record'É

whoosh, whoosh, burn burnÉ
no matter how É
gruntledÉ
there's only two ways toÉ
oh my jesusÉ
lionelÉ
etherÉ
here's a clueÉ

[still working on it]

i think i heard the voice say strawberries somewhere

ok i'm dying.. i tried not to read and now i have and i can't find any of the tracks anywhere... if someone would be so kind to provide info i'd really appreciate it.

Ok - can anyone here help me find the new album? I nearly had a heart attack when I found out they delayed the released date. I need a fix badly. Anyone? Help!

I have listened to it several times now...

WHHHHHHHHHHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAATTTT???

hell no

it doesnt live up to ISM and stuff...idk...

Mayeb it's the mood im in...Like even at dawn and the tennessee fire are hit and miss

i just went out for a drive with a friend who has a killer speaker system in his truck.. and it just multiplied how much i like this album by 10. off the record slams.

that's when it really hit me too, blasted it on the 405 on the way home yesterday...first time ever I was stoked on gridlock traffic.

I know for a fact that this version isn't the mastered version, which should change a lot of the eq, and sound level of the record.....the stuff people are downloading can't be the final product.....

No I do LOVE it....not sure what i was thinking...

I was just hoping for more...different...

I don't know it for a fact, but I wouldn't be surprised if he was right.  I thought the sound levels were too uncompressed.  Especially Don Dante, I'd hate to master that track.  I'm glad to get the unmastered version, though, if that's what it is, because modern mastering is for the birds anyway.

how would this not mastered version get out?

They probably sent some unmastered version to Billboard or Rolling Stone or someone, to give them an advanced listen for an article or something and gave it to them under the understanding that is was yet unmastered.  I don't know any of this for a fact, but it's a possibility.

is there anyway that anybody could supply me with the info about the leak at my email, cms64@cornell.edu

i will be indebted to you forever!!!

Quoteis there anyway that anybody could supply me with the info about the leak at my email, cms64@cornell.edu

i will be indebted to you forever!!!

Following up on my original request, I second this request!

murph@murphydesignstudios.com

Been jamming the album all morning, trying to let it grow on me first before I comment. I need to hear it a few times before it sets in. Although, I'm on the second run through and I'm liking it more and more

oh ya, and one more thing crossed my mind...I can't wait to hear these songs for myself, in concert, they all sound like they will FUCKING ROCK live

The lyrics are starting to set in now.  As cheesy as it sounds this record remindes me that I want to be a better person........and anytime is a good time to start.  I'm rerembering why I fell in love with this band all over again.

If anyone could hook me up please email me at kt416@stu.aii.edu .   I was trying to hold off but the anticipation is killing me already, and I can't find it anywhere.  THanks for the help.

i don't think i can hold out any longer either. so if anyone wants to help out. siserilla@hotmail.com

Wait for it, I just deleted it...Soundwise, it's not the finished product. The total sonic assault will be well worth the wait!!! Big ups to T!

I guess it's easy for me to say because I've heard it but I also suggest waiting.  I'm going to take it off my computer as well, this isn't the record that is intended to be in everyone's hands.    

how you guys get the album? i'm not going to last, i've been listening to the live versions of off the record and don dante too much. if someone can help me, message me or mail me at rgleason@law.villanova.edu

cant wait for the cd release though to actually have it in my hands

well, i just got it off soul seek, and i got to get to bed for some more listens, but here's an opinion

wordless chorus - a solid opener that sets the tone for the album: this is unlike any other mmj album, and that aint exactly bad either. Love the ending, with Jim just letting it out

beats for you - for me one of the three best songs on the album, i think its awesome and keeps the momentum going and tone wordless chorus starts. after listening to this (yes, with an effective whistling solo at the end - havent heard one one of those since scorpions or bowie's glory years) you are unsure where mmj is going, its like reading a good book

gideon - really wasnt liking this song as it started off really bland and sounded like william orbit produced it or some weird shit, but it picks up and buy the end proves itself a winner. it rocks.

what a wonderful man - blah, doesnt work for me, whatever, i just dont think i like that piano.

off the record - a true mind blower and i suspect will be the single. its a solid song (even though it sounds like hawaii five-o in the beginning, but the final 2 and a half minutes is badass, complete with pure rocking out leading into the drum machine

into the woods - well i listened to it once and i think this will be one of those love it or hate it tracks. wasnt really working for me, but its a long track that gets better as it progresses. really out there though, nothing like we have heard from mmj

anytime - works for me, it rocks pretty hard i think. i like it, i think a lot of other people will too

laylow - again, a track that i didnt like the beginning minutes of, but just when i think mmj has misfired, a mind blowing guitar solo picks up the song and redeems it. damn, they win again with this one

knot comes loose - heading into the home stretch, a really nice song, beautiful vocals, piano, really nice slower song. sure to please

don dante - the best closer on any mmj album. starts slow but has a good vibe going, then a slow building guitar solo into an explosion of rock, then ending with an discomforting sax solo that leaves you little disoriented. best song on the album for sure

on the whole, i think wonderful man is the only misfire, for into the woods is just a little bit too out there, and lay low for me is not one of the top tracks, but still redeems itself, as does gideon
eveything else is very good, with don dante the standout

ok, im tired, cant wait to have it on cd, laters

  Ok, so I cut "off the record" right at the point where the backwards vocals start (in Sony Sound forge) reversed it and then pasted it onto the end of the song, it's really weird but it sounds like it was meant to be done this way.  Just as the song ends it goes into this descending noise jam and then when it immediately starts to pick up on the part I pasted on it's the same noise jam as the end of the song but it starts ascending.  I originally thought that "Into The Woods" broke the flow of the album but after listening to this insane ending of of "off the record" the continued weirdness of "Into The Woods" fits perfectly and then "Anytime" snaps you out of the trance.  "Knot Comes Loose" is probably the best pure singer songwritter type song that Jim has ever written.  I love the piano and steel guitar but this song is all about a chord progression and some amazing words.  It's a killer!!!!!, you wouldn't think that songs like "Bermuda Highway" and "I Will Be There When You Die" could be topped and then he writes a song like "Knot Comes Loose".  "Red Like Strawberries"  "oh, My Jesus"  There is so much to get into on this album, I probably needed a head start.      

I think it was definately meant to be played backwards.  The first thing he says backwrds is "here's a clue".  As in, here's a clue... listen to this track backwards.  I think the jam at the end sounds better backwards than it does forward, which is pretty amazing.  I'm still not sure whose voice that is or what they are saying, but I think it's in there to give us that clue.  

Wouldn't it be funny if that was Bright Eyes part on the album?  I can just see the linear notes:
Conor Oberst - backwards mumbles

THIS IS :( ALL WRONG

ok, there's no way that I'm downloading the leak, especially after finding out that its not mastered. so how bad will playing a record screw up your needle/record?

QuoteWhen all is said an done...I think this will be a dissapointment...

I have listened to it several times now...All the way through...This may be the last MMJ cd...

I'm thinking the same...really haven't heard that much praise over the new album.

Could be M.Ward on the reverse. & Yes, that isn't the finished record, so delete that mofo.

I really don't see what the point of deleting it is.  It might be cool to have an alternative mix of the album once the real thing comes out.  If you don't want to listen to it until then then don't press play.  I think it's a little silly to delete it, but that's just my opinion.

An unmastered disc isn't an alternative mix.  :P

Could someone please post this album on torrentspy.com or something.  Everyone should chill out about listening to it early.  Were all fans here.  Were all gonna buy the album.  Or could someone please send me the album or a link to get it. My email adress is gunsnro857@AOL.com.

can anyone send me info on how to get the leaked cd??  like everyone has said, were all gonna buy it when it comes out, especially if its truly not mastered  - any help is appreciated  bweil1@ithaca.edu

thanks

just wait guys, it's not even mastered, so it won't sound like it should. There's a reason it's not out yet, so don't worry.

The sound quality on the leak apparently blows, or is not right. So just download some bittorrents of the bonnaroo show and some others and enjoy those...their just as rockin (if not moreso) as an unmastered bootlegged early copy of an MMJ masterpiece

Perhaps this shitty leak version really is the unmastered one - can't see how that could happen, but maybe it really is so. Still, you guys are kidding yourselves if you think the album hasn't yet been mastered. The album has been mastered for some time now.

The new album rocks!!! I don't care if it's unmastered or not, it's pretty damn good. If this isn't the final version, great, I'm buying the new album when it comes out either way because I believe in supporting my favorite band. Downloading it and then deleting it is stupid, give it a listen, satisfy the curiosity and get a taste of it. I'm certainly  not deleting it, I'll be jamming it until the new one comes out.

I think every song is pretty solid, "into the woods" is one of the best songs on this album. "off the record" is an all around mind blower and the type of song you won't be able to get out of your head. This album seems a lot more detailed instrumentally, just so many different sounds and lil things you notice each time you listen. I think this album will fit in quite well with the rest of the MMJ albums.

WHERE THE HELL IS EVERYONE GETTING THE NEW ALBUM FROM. I CAN'T FIND IT ANYWHERE.  PLEASE HELP!

son of a bitch... I am so mad that I'm listening to the new album 3 months ahead of release date... I feel like I'm cheating on my girlfriend or something... oh well... It feels so good.

Quoteson of a bitch... I am so mad that I'm listening to the new album 3 months ahead of release date... I feel like I'm cheating on my girlfriend or something... oh well... It feels so good.

this reminds me of a harley shirt they used to make that said:  
riding a honda is like fucking a fag, it feels good until someone sees you doing it.

best.t-shirt.ever.

??? wtf? I just don't get that shirt? I don't care if someone saw me fuck a fag or not, i'm not going to get any enjoyment out of that no matter who sees it. I thought the saying was "fat girls are fun to ride until your friends find out or something"

the one i saw was about having sex with a fat girl and riding a moped

What is the big secret.  How did you all get the new album.  Could someone please tell me where they got it.  I know i'm new to this board but i have been a MMJ fan for a while now and I really want to hear the new album mastered or not i don't care.

kazaa,soulseek. but i would just wait it out for the mastered versions. i've heard half off the new album at their shows so i can wait a couple months for 5 more. you should too.

damn this album complete surpassed my expectations.

Bo and Carl contributed some interested changes and Patrick's gone in a really great direction with the drums.

So is this the final mix or are they making some changes? I've seen mentions that this is an early mix but it sounds really clean to me. I wonder if this will force them to move up the release date.  

would that be Tommy talking backwards at the end?? yes it would be.....

wow.  I took about a month and about five times through the album, but I have fallen in love with 'Z'!  Some parts are still a little hard for me to stomach ("babies in blenders" and whatnot) but it's a masterpiece!  Great guitar work.  I wonder how much is Carl and how much is Jim, but we'll probably never know.  I also wonder if they used Carl vocal or if they stuck with Jim's harmonies.  Give her another listen.

 ;D

only five times?  im not sure how many times ive gone through the entire thing, but i think i listen to lay low at least once a day.  i just told my wife last night in the car i wouldnt mind if that song were about 37 minutes long.  i think in general im expecting to hear a lot of shit if people post first-time listening thoughts before they think about it.  im still trying to digest anytime and even, what a wonderful man, but the album unfolds more with each listen.  

glad to hear people are digging it, i'm unfortunately disappointed...definitely a step back for them imo.  

"knot comes loose" is brilliant.  i wish he stick with more songs like that.  

"off the record" sounds like hawaii five o.  

i miss the silo.  

Okay, I'll admit as I was disappointed at first, especially with "Anytime" and "Gideon" (reminds me of MMJ covering Coldplay, for some reason).  The album as a whole, though, is starting to grow on me and I know once I see all of these songs live I will finally fully appreciate it.  

Little things I love about the album:

- When everything drops out after the whistling in "It Beats For You."  Just drums and bass.  Awesome. (By the way, can anyone confirm that that is Andrew Bird?)

- The Dracula impression at the end of "What A Wonderful Man."

- How everything builds and builds to the finale of "Into The Woods."  Very spooky.  It seems like the tail-ends of all the tracks are just so strong on this album.

Serious question for everyone who's listened: How many of these songs can you see cracking your Top Ten MMJ Tracks?  I definitely enjoy Z but I'm not sure if I can say that any song (save "Don Dante" possibly) is up there.

Fuck, why am I in here?

Fuck fuck fuck.

I am SO jealous.  DAMN IT.

Oh you cold October, get your ass a-comin'!!

QuoteSerious question for everyone who's listened: How many of these songs can you see cracking your Top Ten MMJ Tracks?  I definitely enjoy Z but I'm not sure if I can say that any song (save "Don Dante" possibly) is up there.

yes personally, Dondante and Lay Low would be in my top 10.

QuoteFuck, why am I in here?

Fuck fuck fuck.

I am SO jealous.  DAMN IT.

Oh you cold October, get your ass a-comin'!!

EC!  all i can say is, youve already officially crossed over to the dark side, whether you realise it or not! mwhahahaha!  
 :o

QuoteFuck, why am I in here?

Fuck fuck fuck.

HAHAHA.  I knew you woudn't last!! How long have you secretly been reading this thread, EC?  

aMillionDreams, werent you and I discussing our bets on how long she'd hold out when we were first getting album?  i dont know if we gave specifics, but lets call it a draw.   ;)

QuoteaMillionDreams, werent you and I discussing our bets on how long she'd hold out when we were first getting album?  i dont know if we gave specifics, but lets call it a draw.   ;)

Sounds good.   ;)

Shall we go for round 2: John Conaway!?!

Quote

Sounds good.   ;)

Shall we go for round 2: John Conaway!?!

youre reading my mind, dude.   ;D

WOAH!  Now listen.  Nobody won any damn bets.  I have NOT heard the frickin record yet.  

And of COURSE I've been reading this thread, are you kidding me?  When it gets a little too specific, I skip it.

My favourite section was when someone suggested that you guys talk about me in here.  I was really hoping that someone would say something.  

;)

QuoteWOAH!  Now listen.  Nobody won any damn bets.  I have NOT heard the frickin record yet.  

And of COURSE I've been reading this thread, are you kidding me?  When it gets a little too specific, I skip it.

My favourite section was when someone suggested that you guys talk about me in here.  I was really hoping that someone would say something.  

;)

Don't think I wasn't tempted, EC.  ;)  Joking, of course.

I knew you couldn't resist to read one of the best threads of the forum.   ;D  

btw, "Lay Low" is my new favortie on the album.  I can't understand a word of it but it's the meaning that I understand.

yeah i never thought id say this, but i think i like lay low more than don dante, i mean theyre both fucking incredible 'steam engine' quality songs.  i dont understand much of lay low either, but i can hear a few bits, i think

a few times i hear 'all i got that i want in you tonight'

and then 'what you want and what you need is not ?????? and a headful of amphetamines'

you know, I was making out some of the words of some of the other songs.  And I remember Patrick saying in that one interview that this album is a reaction to the what is going on in the world.  Is anyone else picking up on these?  It's not too preachy (which is good) but there are some lines here and there that seem to comment of modern situations.  I'll post some particluar lines as they come to me.

Quoteyou know, I was making out some of the words of some of the other songs.  And I remember Patrick saying in that one interview that this album is a reaction to the what is going on in the world.  Is anyone else picking up on these?  It's not too preachy (which is good) but there are some lines here and there that seem to comment of modern situations.  I'll post some particluar lines as they come to me.

i've only heard four of the new songs, but i have picked up on this...i figure i'll wait until Z comes out to hear the others and be surprised. this was my resolution.

anyway, Gideon is one song i've heard and i LOVE it. i really think it's gonna be amazing live.  it doesn't seem like too many people like it, but i'd include it as one of my mmj favorites.

it's lyrics are most definitely about what's going on in the world right now...here are a few i picked up:

"religion..___________...who are you, what have you become"
-questioning religion and what it has become in the world, maybe how it has warped into something that causes more bad than  good

"what does this remind you of"
-kind of some garbled lyrics around this phrase, but it seems like jim is saying the current state of the world is similar to something else bad that has happened in the past

"hated and feared for something we don't want...listen, LISTEN, most of us believe that this is wrong"
-jim's plea to the world that many of us here in the U.S. don't like what our government is doing.

those are just my guesses.

Quote

"religion..___________...who are you, what have you become"
-questioning religion and what it has become in the world, maybe how it has warped into something that causes more bad than  good

"what does this remind you of"
-kind of some garbled lyrics around this phrase, but it seems like jim is saying the current state of the world is similar to something else bad that has happened in the past

"hated and feared for something we don't want...listen, LISTEN, most of us believe that this is wrong"
-jim's plea to the world that many of us here in the U.S. don't like what our government is doing.

those are just my guesses.

Good work, October.  That was one song I had in mind.  I believe the line is, "Religion should appeal to the hearts of the young, who are you, what have you become".  I think might be addressed to the Catholic Church.

"What does this remind you of" made me think of Iraq reminding a lot of us of Vietnam.  

and "Listen, most of us think that this is wrong"  I thought may be addressed to George 'W'.

I think that these are pretty good insights, but it's still not my favorite song.  I don't listen to the jacket to be politically enlightened, but I think Jim has incorporated these ideas in ways that don't interfere with the music and are still up for interpretation.  Well done, Jim! ;)

Another song with a statement that may be relevant to what's going on in the world is 'Off the Record'.  "You I just ain't the type / to get wrapped up in the illusion / of something that you know ain't right."

OK....I stand corrected....the version of Z I downloaded of the net was NOT the mastered version...however the promo copy I got off EBAY is....big difference in sound.This is the same version everyone will get October 4,cepting maybe they will add some liner notes and pics and stuff.
 It is also an enhanced CD,when you play it on your computer..it has it's own screen that comes up and shows the album art and buttons to click to either play,burn a copy or rip a copy to your puter.It also has a link to the artist of the album cover.Now get this...I can burn a backup copy to this disc...but just one copy...that's it...and the backup copy can't be copied either.....some really serious security features on this disc that I have never seen before.

QuoteNow get this...I can burn a backup copy to this disc...but just one copy...that's it...and the backup copy can't be copied either.....some really serious security features on this disc that I have never seen before.

Dude... welcome to the New World Order that is SonyBMG (special thanks also the EMI). Copy-control is such BS. Some computer dork (no offense to anyone, please) always finds a way around it, and then it's available to download illegally anyway. Meanwhile, us hardcore fans can't rip the CDs to iTunes, can't play them in the car, in an older player... I remember buying the latest Coldplay (i know, i know...) and not being able to play it anywhere in my home. Even the DVD player couldn't read it. I couldn't rip it onto iTunes so listening to the album on my iPod was out, too. So, I paid full money for a CD that was basically useless. I know I could have just paid for the download, but i like liner notes. I like album art. I like to see the band's vision, not some ether-based musical notes. So i had to have a friend download it from Limewire. So that makes me sad. And on a side note, I'm pretty sure that dude selling Z on E-Bay works for BMG. He was also hawking the new David Gray which isn't out for a few weeks. And they're all promo copies...

It seems to me with all these security features that the price of CD's would go up to cover the costs.One thing I will say is I have no problem playing the disc in any of my components.I really don't care about not being able to make multiple copies .

QuoteI really don't care about not being able to make multiple copies .

To me, it's not a matter of making copies or not. It's a matter of, hey there record company, I [aid for this CD, why can't I play it in my home? And the worst part is that the copy-control CDs aren't actually CDs. Phillips, who patented the compact disc format, won't even put the Compact Disc and Phillips logo on these things because they are so far off the original manufacturing specs, and are so bug-and-defect-prone. It's quite shameful, really. And it seems to me that this copy-control business is kind of like the war on drugs where we try to remove the drugs instead of finding out the cause of drug addiction. It's trying to fight the symptoms instead of the underlying cause. The record companies should put out better products. If they release a record that is simply a vehicle for one or two singles and 12 filler tracks, let them not cry foul when people download. Rant!!

Bump.....I thought people that didn't read this thread at first might like to check it out now.

It's fun to actually be able to read it now.  

It IS Tom talking backwards on the album.  That makes sense from the little movie, too.  

God, that was JULY?!  That's fucking crazy.  That's a long time ago.

aaaaaaaahhhhhh... the evil *Spoiler* thread!  The board's guilty pleassure.  seems almost archaic now doesn't it?

 :)

horrible downloaders, whaddya think?  im definitely hearing loads of things on the official cd version that i never heard on the leaked version o'things.  niiiiiiiiiiice surprises, indeedy.   ;D

hey, so what wasn't on the leaked version thats on the album? is the sound quality better, too?

Quotehey, so what wasn't on the leaked version thats on the album? is the sound quality better, too?

some of the more atmospheric weird noises are more noticeable.  i think overwall it sounds much better than the leaked version.  the keyboards shine through much more.

is it just me or do the little guitar twidlings before the explosion in don dante sound different in the album version?

hey jellyfish, i think that our japanese promo cd is different than the actual cd.. i've noticed a big difference in the overall sound quality and noticed that there's an extra 3 seconds on the actual release.. or maybe it's just in my head.

i think tommy's bass playing on 'it beat 4 u' shines out a lot more on the cd version as well.  

bump.  ;)

I was confused when I first saw this and quickly realized that its from Z.  I was actually wondering what the initial reactions to Z were so hopefully soon I'll be able to actually read through all of it.  Thanks for this.

That being said, Evil Urges anyone?  

I'm hoping it grows on me.  There's some great parts, some good parts, and some parts that I flat out don't like.  

I posted this on another forum, but here goes again.

So I've given this 4 listens, all the way through at various points between last night and today.

Here are my thoughts... Just to give you some perspective, I became a big MMJ fan when It Still Moves came out, and I have been a huge (rabid I'd even say) fan since then. Some of my other favorite contemporary bands are Wilco, Radiohead, M. Ward, Animal Collective, Wolf Parade, Band of Horses..

"Evil Urges" is incredibly flawed. While there are moments of brilliance, which I'll get to, many of the disastrous experimentations almost overshadow these triumphs. The title track really kicks things off into high gear and hints at the experimentation yet to come. It's a very nice medium of the new and the old. However, it's followed by two atrocious tracks that disrupt the entire flow of the album, and are laughable musical compositions in themselves. "Touch Me Part 1" in particular seems out of place. The synths that squiggle throughout sound like something from the fucking Thompson Twins, and the "I can tell by the sounds you make when you are pleased" robot-voice Jim James puts on is particularly egregious. From then on the "I need a human by my side, untied" treads on space-schmaltz. Moving on, "Highly Suspicious" continues the trainwreck. The deep background vocals make this track virtually unlistenable. In addition, the song feels anemic. It lacks all of the energy the live version had, and just feels flat and without any sense of dynamic. People compare this song to Prince, and that's an insult to "the artist."

Luckily, the record jumpstarts with "I'm Amazed." Although the lyrics aren't the most cerebral to come out of Jim James' mouth, they're sung with conviction (often absent on this entire record) and the band is right there making every note and snare-hit count. The production really shines on this song - Chiccareli does a fine job giving the track a live feel. The one-two punch of "Thank You Too" and "Sec Walkin'" showcases two well-written songs that border on complete adult-contemporary, albeit in an endearing way. The strings on "Thank You Too" turn it into a complete sap-fest; luckily, the melody and the band sound great here. "Sec Walkin'" sounds like something I'd here at a truckstop in West Texas circa 1978, but it provides a nice intersection of country and soul that I find appealing.

Then there is "Two Halves." This is the point where I just start to shake my head. The lyrics in this song are inane, the doo-wop background vocals are contrived, and Jim James seems to be phoning this one in. In other words, it's another one that should have been left on the cutting room floor. Luckily it's followed by the lovely and perfectly arranged "Librarian." "Look At You" rides on a beautiful melody; unfortunately, the lyrics border on Christian rock. From here on, the record seems to kick. "Aluminum Park" finally shows Jim James singing/screaming his heart out while the band kicks with him the entire way. "Remnants" is Pearl Jam-lite, but manages to throw in some good riffs. Thankfully the record ends with two of the best songs. "Smokin' From Shootin" has great lyrics, is masterfully produced (the kick drum sounds like it's blowing wind), and climaxes in a moment of beauty and vocal-centric beauty. The lead-in to the groovy and climactic "Touch Me Part 2" is also one of the only times this feels like a cohesive album.

Essentially, MMJ threw a bunch of ideas at a wall, and unfortunately, many of them did not stick. Although I applaud the band's willingness to experiment and shed its skin, it has had some alienating consequences. Much of this exploration seems poorly thought out. This band has ventured into uncharted territory at risk of losing so much of what made them great in the first place. It's one thing to let the essence of your sound remain intact while trying new things, but this is not the case with "Evil Urges." While they may be the best live band in the world, their stake at claiming the title of best American band is in vain because of this new LP.

Although my views of this record are mostly negative, I allow room for this album to be a grower. When "Houses of the Holy" came out it got a lot of shit for the James Brown-aping "Crunge" and the reggae-tinged "D'yer Maker," but in retrospect those were bold choices and a lot of the Zeppelin's audience wasn't ready for it. The same could happen with MMJ. Evil Urges might be remembered as a classic in the years to come. Time will tell.

Rating: 6.2/10

QuoteCould someone point me in the right direction with a pm?

no, you're going to get this thread shut down.  please down posts pm requests in this thread.  it is for discussion only.

This album ain't bad at all.

i think it sounds like they just wanted to write some songs, and MOST of them are great.

it's definitely not "it still moves" but what is??

i just can't complain about a good band releasing an album of 12 to 14 good songs.  

and honestly, it does feel like the next step from Z if you listened to them like this:

ttf > at dawn > it still moves > Z > evilurges

anyways, do you guys like how i double space??

I love every second of this record so far.



Not what I was expecting from them, but it's really really great.

Quote"Look At You" rides on a beautiful melody; unfortunately, the lyrics border on Christian rock.

I disagree with this statement....the song could be about anything.  God or a strong, great girl.  

I think the album is great and a natural progression from Z.  I don't know if it will get the critical acclaim of Z, but who gives a shit....the album is a grab bag of awesome songs.  Perfect for one listen, or perfect for picking out one song.

"Highly Suspicious" is a fun track too....its not supposed to be Steam Engine.

QuoteI posted this on another forum, but here goes again.

So I've given this 4 listens, all the way through at various points between last night and today.

Here are my thoughts... Just to give you some perspective, I became a big MMJ fan when It Still Moves came out, and I have been a huge (rabid I'd even say) fan since then. Some of my other favorite contemporary bands are Wilco, Radiohead, M. Ward, Animal Collective, Wolf Parade, Band of Horses..

"Evil Urges" is incredibly flawed. While there are moments of brilliance, which I'll get to, many of the disastrous experimentations almost overshadow these triumphs. The title track really kicks things off into high gear and hints at the experimentation yet to come. It's a very nice medium of the new and the old. However, it's followed by two atrocious tracks that disrupt the entire flow of the album, and are laughable musical compositions in themselves. "Touch Me Part 1" in particular seems out of place. The synths that squiggle throughout sound like something from the fucking Thompson Twins, and the "I can tell by the sounds you make when you are pleased" robot-voice Jim James puts on is particularly egregious. From then on the "I need a human by my side, untied" treads on space-schmaltz. Moving on, "Highly Suspicious" continues the trainwreck. The deep background vocals make this track virtually unlistenable. In addition, the song feels anemic. It lacks all of the energy the live version had, and just feels flat and without any sense of dynamic. People compare this song to Prince, and that's an insult to "the artist."

Luckily, the record jumpstarts with "I'm Amazed." Although the lyrics aren't the most cerebral to come out of Jim James' mouth, they're sung with conviction (often absent on this entire record) and the band is right there making every note and snare-hit count. The production really shines on this song - Chiccareli does a fine job giving the track a live feel. The one-two punch of "Thank You Too" and "Sec Walkin'" showcases two well-written songs that border on complete adult-contemporary, albeit in an endearing way. The strings on "Thank You Too" turn it into a complete sap-fest; luckily, the melody and the band sound great here. "Sec Walkin'" sounds like something I'd here at a truckstop in West Texas circa 1978, but it provides a nice intersection of country and soul that I find appealing.

Then there is "Two Halves." This is the point where I just start to shake my head. The lyrics in this song are inane, the doo-wop background vocals are contrived, and Jim James seems to be phoning this one in. In other words, it's another one that should have been left on the cutting room floor. Luckily it's followed by the lovely and perfectly arranged "Librarian." "Look At You" rides on a beautiful melody; unfortunately, the lyrics border on Christian rock. From here on, the record seems to kick. "Aluminum Park" finally shows Jim James singing/screaming his heart out while the band kicks with him the entire way. "Remnants" is Pearl Jam-lite, but manages to throw in some good riffs. Thankfully the record ends with two of the best songs. "Smokin' From Shootin" has great lyrics, is masterfully produced (the kick drum sounds like it's blowing wind), and climaxes in a moment of beauty and vocal-centric beauty. The lead-in to the groovy and climactic "Touch Me Part 2" is also one of the only times this feels like a cohesive album.

Essentially, MMJ threw a bunch of ideas at a wall, and unfortunately, many of them did not stick. Although I applaud the band's willingness to experiment and shed its skin, it has had some alienating consequences. Much of this exploration seems poorly thought out. This band has ventured into uncharted territory at risk of losing so much of what made them great in the first place. It's one thing to let the essence of your sound remain intact while trying new things, but this is not the case with "Evil Urges." While they may be the best live band in the world, their stake at claiming the title of best American band is in vain because of this new LP.

Although my views of this record are mostly negative, I allow room for this album to be a grower. When "Houses of the Holy" came out it got a lot of shit for the James Brown-aping "Crunge" and the reggae-tinged "D'yer Maker," but in retrospect those were bold choices and a lot of the Zeppelin's audience wasn't ready for it. The same could happen with MMJ. Evil Urges might be remembered as a classic in the years to come. Time will tell.

Rating: 6.2/10

Did the Pitchfork review leak in addition to the album?

Quote

QuoteI posted this on another forum, but here goes again.

So I've given this 4 listens, all the way through at various points between last night and today.

Here are my thoughts... Just to give you some perspective, I became a big MMJ fan when It Still Moves came out, and I have been a huge (rabid I'd even say) fan since then. Some of my other favorite contemporary bands are Wilco, Radiohead, M. Ward, Animal Collective, Wolf Parade, Band of Horses..

"Evil Urges" is incredibly flawed. While there are moments of brilliance, which I'll get to, many of the disastrous experimentations almost overshadow these triumphs. The title track really kicks things off into high gear and hints at the experimentation yet to come. It's a very nice medium of the new and the old. However, it's followed by two atrocious tracks that disrupt the entire flow of the album, and are laughable musical compositions in themselves. "Touch Me Part 1" in particular seems out of place. The synths that squiggle throughout sound like something from the fucking Thompson Twins, and the "I can tell by the sounds you make when you are pleased" robot-voice Jim James puts on is particularly egregious. From then on the "I need a human by my side, untied" treads on space-schmaltz. Moving on, "Highly Suspicious" continues the trainwreck. The deep background vocals make this track virtually unlistenable. In addition, the song feels anemic. It lacks all of the energy the live version had, and just feels flat and without any sense of dynamic. People compare this song to Prince, and that's an insult to "the artist."

Luckily, the record jumpstarts with "I'm Amazed." Although the lyrics aren't the most cerebral to come out of Jim James' mouth, they're sung with conviction (often absent on this entire record) and the band is right there making every note and snare-hit count. The production really shines on this song - Chiccareli does a fine job giving the track a live feel. The one-two punch of "Thank You Too" and "Sec Walkin'" showcases two well-written songs that border on complete adult-contemporary, albeit in an endearing way. The strings on "Thank You Too" turn it into a complete sap-fest; luckily, the melody and the band sound great here. "Sec Walkin'" sounds like something I'd here at a truckstop in West Texas circa 1978, but it provides a nice intersection of country and soul that I find appealing.

Then there is "Two Halves." This is the point where I just start to shake my head. The lyrics in this song are inane, the doo-wop background vocals are contrived, and Jim James seems to be phoning this one in. In other words, it's another one that should have been left on the cutting room floor. Luckily it's followed by the lovely and perfectly arranged "Librarian." "Look At You" rides on a beautiful melody; unfortunately, the lyrics border on Christian rock. From here on, the record seems to kick. "Aluminum Park" finally shows Jim James singing/screaming his heart out while the band kicks with him the entire way. "Remnants" is Pearl Jam-lite, but manages to throw in some good riffs. Thankfully the record ends with two of the best songs. "Smokin' From Shootin" has great lyrics, is masterfully produced (the kick drum sounds like it's blowing wind), and climaxes in a moment of beauty and vocal-centric beauty. The lead-in to the groovy and climactic "Touch Me Part 2" is also one of the only times this feels like a cohesive album.

Essentially, MMJ threw a bunch of ideas at a wall, and unfortunately, many of them did not stick. Although I applaud the band's willingness to experiment and shed its skin, it has had some alienating consequences. Much of this exploration seems poorly thought out. This band has ventured into uncharted territory at risk of losing so much of what made them great in the first place. It's one thing to let the essence of your sound remain intact while trying new things, but this is not the case with "Evil Urges." While they may be the best live band in the world, their stake at claiming the title of best American band is in vain because of this new LP.

Although my views of this record are mostly negative, I allow room for this album to be a grower. When "Houses of the Holy" came out it got a lot of shit for the James Brown-aping "Crunge" and the reggae-tinged "D'yer Maker," but in retrospect those were bold choices and a lot of the Zeppelin's audience wasn't ready for it. The same could happen with MMJ. Evil Urges might be remembered as a classic in the years to come. Time will tell.

Rating: 6.2/10

Did the Pitchfork review leak in addition to the album?

WOAH! THE NEW GUY WITH A BURN!

YES!!!

(http://theartofbradsmith.com/rock.gif)

so hearing the whole album now what do you think they'll play at snl? (remnants and evil urges)

Yep, that was raaazzzzor sharp.  With as much pub as MMJ is getting you just know Pitchfork is going to slam them with a 5.7

QuoteYep, that was raaazzzzor sharp.  With as much pub as MMJ is getting you just know Pitchfork is going to slam them with a 5.7

yeah it was a good one, indeed.  you're right though.  pitchfork has never been kind to the jacket, i don't see why they would start now.

Quote

QuoteYep, that was raaazzzzor sharp.  With as much pub as MMJ is getting you just know Pitchfork is going to slam them with a 5.7

yeah it was a good one, indeed.  you're right though.  pitchfork has never been kind to the jacket, i don't see why they would start now.

Nope, well not in their reviews of the albums anyway.  They started to give them quite a bit of attention after Z caught on, just posting news about the band and diffrent links, tour dates and stuff.  

Quote
Did the Pitchfork review leak in addition to the album?

wow, I wish I had said that.

raaaaazor sharp indeed!

plus 2 Wilford Brimleys!

(http://scifipedia.scifi.com/images/thumb/a/a1/Wilford-brimley.jpg/270px-Wilford-brimley.jpg)
(http://scifipedia.scifi.com/images/thumb/a/a1/Wilford-brimley.jpg/270px-Wilford-brimley.jpg)

Quote
Although my views of this record are mostly negative, I allow room for this album to be a grower. When "Houses of the Holy" came out it got a lot of shit for the James Brown-aping "Crunge" and the reggae-tinged "D'yer Maker," but in retrospect those were bold choices and a lot of the Zeppelin's audience wasn't ready for it. The same could happen with MMJ. Evil Urges might be remembered as a classic in the years to come. Time will tell.

Rating: 6.2/10

Pretty much on point here. Well said.

Quote

Quote

QuoteI posted this on another forum, but here goes again.

So I've given this 4 listens, all the way through at various points between last night and today.

Here are my thoughts... Just to give you some perspective, I became a big MMJ fan when It Still Moves came out, and I have been a huge (rabid I'd even say) fan since then. Some of my other favorite contemporary bands are Wilco, Radiohead, M. Ward, Animal Collective, Wolf Parade, Band of Horses..

"Evil Urges" is incredibly flawed. While there are moments of brilliance, which I'll get to, many of the disastrous experimentations almost overshadow these triumphs. The title track really kicks things off into high gear and hints at the experimentation yet to come. It's a very nice medium of the new and the old. However, it's followed by two atrocious tracks that disrupt the entire flow of the album, and are laughable musical compositions in themselves. "Touch Me Part 1" in particular seems out of place. The synths that squiggle throughout sound like something from the fucking Thompson Twins, and the "I can tell by the sounds you make when you are pleased" robot-voice Jim James puts on is particularly egregious. From then on the "I need a human by my side, untied" treads on space-schmaltz. Moving on, "Highly Suspicious" continues the trainwreck. The deep background vocals make this track virtually unlistenable. In addition, the song feels anemic. It lacks all of the energy the live version had, and just feels flat and without any sense of dynamic. People compare this song to Prince, and that's an insult to "the artist."

Luckily, the record jumpstarts with "I'm Amazed." Although the lyrics aren't the most cerebral to come out of Jim James' mouth, they're sung with conviction (often absent on this entire record) and the band is right there making every note and snare-hit count. The production really shines on this song - Chiccareli does a fine job giving the track a live feel. The one-two punch of "Thank You Too" and "Sec Walkin'" showcases two well-written songs that border on complete adult-contemporary, albeit in an endearing way. The strings on "Thank You Too" turn it into a complete sap-fest; luckily, the melody and the band sound great here. "Sec Walkin'" sounds like something I'd here at a truckstop in West Texas circa 1978, but it provides a nice intersection of country and soul that I find appealing.

Then there is "Two Halves." This is the point where I just start to shake my head. The lyrics in this song are inane, the doo-wop background vocals are contrived, and Jim James seems to be phoning this one in. In other words, it's another one that should have been left on the cutting room floor. Luckily it's followed by the lovely and perfectly arranged "Librarian." "Look At You" rides on a beautiful melody; unfortunately, the lyrics border on Christian rock. From here on, the record seems to kick. "Aluminum Park" finally shows Jim James singing/screaming his heart out while the band kicks with him the entire way. "Remnants" is Pearl Jam-lite, but manages to throw in some good riffs. Thankfully the record ends with two of the best songs. "Smokin' From Shootin" has great lyrics, is masterfully produced (the kick drum sounds like it's blowing wind), and climaxes in a moment of beauty and vocal-centric beauty. The lead-in to the groovy and climactic "Touch Me Part 2" is also one of the only times this feels like a cohesive album.

Essentially, MMJ threw a bunch of ideas at a wall, and unfortunately, many of them did not stick. Although I applaud the band's willingness to experiment and shed its skin, it has had some alienating consequences. Much of this exploration seems poorly thought out. This band has ventured into uncharted territory at risk of losing so much of what made them great in the first place. It's one thing to let the essence of your sound remain intact while trying new things, but this is not the case with "Evil Urges." While they may be the best live band in the world, their stake at claiming the title of best American band is in vain because of this new LP.

Although my views of this record are mostly negative, I allow room for this album to be a grower. When "Houses of the Holy" came out it got a lot of shit for the James Brown-aping "Crunge" and the reggae-tinged "D'yer Maker," but in retrospect those were bold choices and a lot of the Zeppelin's audience wasn't ready for it. The same could happen with MMJ. Evil Urges might be remembered as a classic in the years to come. Time will tell.

Rating: 6.2/10

Did the Pitchfork review leak in addition to the album?

WOAH! THE NEW GUY WITH A BURN!

YES!!!

(http://theartofbradsmith.com/rock.gif)

Ha, glad you enjoyed that.  I sure don't post here too much, but I lurk quite often, especially lately with all the excitement and tumult going on as we approach Evil Urges' [official] release.

QuoteI posted this on another forum, but here goes again.

So I've given this 4 listens, all the way through at various points between last night and today.

Here are my thoughts... Just to give you some perspective, I became a big MMJ fan when It Still Moves came out, and I have been a huge (rabid I'd even say) fan since then. Some of my other favorite contemporary bands are Wilco, Radiohead, M. Ward, Animal Collective, Wolf Parade, Band of Horses..

"Evil Urges" is incredibly flawed. While there are moments of brilliance, which I'll get to, many of the disastrous experimentations almost overshadow these triumphs. The title track really kicks things off into high gear and hints at the experimentation yet to come. It's a very nice medium of the new and the old. However, it's followed by two atrocious tracks that disrupt the entire flow of the album, and are laughable musical compositions in themselves. "Touch Me Part 1" in particular seems out of place. The synths that squiggle throughout sound like something from the fucking Thompson Twins, and the "I can tell by the sounds you make when you are pleased" robot-voice Jim James puts on is particularly egregious. From then on the "I need a human by my side, untied" treads on space-schmaltz. Moving on, "Highly Suspicious" continues the trainwreck. The deep background vocals make this track virtually unlistenable. In addition, the song feels anemic. It lacks all of the energy the live version had, and just feels flat and without any sense of dynamic. People compare this song to Prince, and that's an insult to "the artist."

Luckily, the record jumpstarts with "I'm Amazed." Although the lyrics aren't the most cerebral to come out of Jim James' mouth, they're sung with conviction (often absent on this entire record) and the band is right there making every note and snare-hit count. The production really shines on this song - Chiccareli does a fine job giving the track a live feel. The one-two punch of "Thank You Too" and "Sec Walkin'" showcases two well-written songs that border on complete adult-contemporary, albeit in an endearing way. The strings on "Thank You Too" turn it into a complete sap-fest; luckily, the melody and the band sound great here. "Sec Walkin'" sounds like something I'd here at a truckstop in West Texas circa 1978, but it provides a nice intersection of country and soul that I find appealing.

Then there is "Two Halves." This is the point where I just start to shake my head. The lyrics in this song are inane, the doo-wop background vocals are contrived, and Jim James seems to be phoning this one in. In other words, it's another one that should have been left on the cutting room floor. Luckily it's followed by the lovely and perfectly arranged "Librarian." "Look At You" rides on a beautiful melody; unfortunately, the lyrics border on Christian rock. From here on, the record seems to kick. "Aluminum Park" finally shows Jim James singing/screaming his heart out while the band kicks with him the entire way. "Remnants" is Pearl Jam-lite, but manages to throw in some good riffs. Thankfully the record ends with two of the best songs. "Smokin' From Shootin" has great lyrics, is masterfully produced (the kick drum sounds like it's blowing wind), and climaxes in a moment of beauty and vocal-centric beauty. The lead-in to the groovy and climactic "Touch Me Part 2" is also one of the only times this feels like a cohesive album.

Essentially, MMJ threw a bunch of ideas at a wall, and unfortunately, many of them did not stick. Although I applaud the band's willingness to experiment and shed its skin, it has had some alienating consequences. Much of this exploration seems poorly thought out. This band has ventured into uncharted territory at risk of losing so much of what made them great in the first place. It's one thing to let the essence of your sound remain intact while trying new things, but this is not the case with "Evil Urges." While they may be the best live band in the world, their stake at claiming the title of best American band is in vain because of this new LP.

Although my views of this record are mostly negative, I allow room for this album to be a grower. When "Houses of the Holy" came out it got a lot of shit for the James Brown-aping "Crunge" and the reggae-tinged "D'yer Maker," but in retrospect those were bold choices and a lot of the Zeppelin's audience wasn't ready for it. The same could happen with MMJ. Evil Urges might be remembered as a classic in the years to come. Time will tell.

Rating: 6.2/10

Rating of this review: pieceofshit.2/10
This thing was so full of cliches it was almost entertaining (almost).  It reminds of the guy in Good Will Hunting at the bar that Will calls out for reciting from books (how you like dem apples?).  
Also, dude, when you listen to something you hear it you do not "here" it.  I'd hate for you to embarrass yourself while posing as a "journalist".

Seriously though, good read!

i've been a rabid fan of the band for a number of years and, in regard to the trajectory of their career, i was just thinking the other day that, one day, i may be one of those people that says they like "early My Morning Jacket." maybe it's because i'm originally from the country myself, but i'm in love with the hazy, psychedelic vibe of The Tennessee Fire, At Dawn and It Still Moves. now, as far as Z goes, i think a great deal of the tracks are just excellent, but it lost the abandoned grain silo feel of the first three records, probably due in part to them replacing two members, and, um, not recording in a grain silo. again, i still think it's a very good album, but i don't find myself pulling it out as much as the others. being that Evil Urges seems to have the same sound, i feel like this record will be the same for me. i mean, "Smokin' From Shootin'" and "Touch Me I'm Going To Scream, Part 2" are fucking stellar, ya know? at any rate, i'd also like to say that i suppose that's personal and it's not as if i'm not willing to follow them in the direction they are heading or that i'd be close-minded in any regard. i might even change my mind...when Iron & Wine expanded into that tribal, world-music thing he/they have going on with The Shepherd's Dog, i thought i'd forever be a fan of "early Iron & Wine." that turned out not to be the case, as i now prefer that record to any of the others. having had experience with Z though, i feel as if this will not be the case.

...and i fucking hate "Highly Suspicious." that song is dumb.

-justin

I look at the "progression" of MMJ like this... Consider what you were listening to 10 years ago... Think of how much you personally have grown in musical taste.  I enjoy the occasional trip down memory lane, but on the whole, I have moved in a different direction.  Now think about a band.  I myself think it would be borinbg if every album sounded exactly like the one before it.  (Thats when you get U2)  I will always love the "early" MMJ, but I am open to following them in whatever direction they go.  As far as "Evil Urges," I think the songs are built to be performed LIVE.  Look at "Highly Suspicious" its goofy, but at the same time it is fun.  After a couple concerts under his belt, imagine what Jim is going to do to those two solos.  Those could both go on for as minute each.  Also, I imagine Touch Me I'm GOing to Scream Pt.2 following Dondante.  Anyway, that is just my two cents.  All I can hope for is MMJ will be around for a long long time.

I'm hearing a lot of silliness about Highly Suspicious.  I'm looking forward to hearing Highly Suspicious live.  I'm especially looking forward to Jim's evil laugh as he rips into his guitar (check out the SXSW show).  I'm also waiting to here that ear peircing scream about 3:30 into the song.  God damn I can't wait.

Also, aMD, I'm glad you're still here.  On page 4 or so of this topic it reads that you are an "Ex Member."  At first, I didn't realize that this was a revived topic.  Welcome back from the dead?

QuoteAlso, aMD, I'm glad you're still here.  On page 4 or so of this topic it reads that you are an "Ex Member."  At first, I didn't realize that this was a revived topic.  Welcome back from the dead?

Thanks! It's nice to feel welcome. some people on here just don't like me and try to make me feel unwelcome, I let them win for a little bit there, but it ain't happening again.


Thanks for this debate too guys. I still don't know exactly where I fall on it.  On one hand there are songs on the new record that are great and I know will be great live.  on the other hand, I just don't know if I like the album as a whole.  It's missing almost everything I love about the band other than tight-ass melodies.  I get that it's a departure and we shouldn't wish for the band to stay stagnant but I just don't think I like the new direction. i guess i figured the "departure" would be more experimental when in fact it's quite the opposite.

listening to it again I couldn't help but think, so this is what that Dave Berman was talking about, he is just faking it. and for the first time, the lyrics were something I tried not to pay attention to.  someone said they were too literal.  that's accurate but I don't know if that's really the problem.

I think what happened is for the first time they forced out an album.  ISM was in the bag for a long time before it was recorded so they had a long time to write Z.  I just feel like it's a little forced and therefore not as heartfelt or sincere.  Jim can still write better songs than most even when he's forcing it but when stacked up next to their other work, it falls short, IMO.

I don't have to like everything they do, hell my favorite artist in the world, bob dylan, has an entire decade of material I don't really like.  mmj will still continue to be my favorite band but when it comes to this album, mark me down as one of the alienated long-time fans wishing for a return to the good old days.

I'm glad we can talk about it without people jumping down our throats for whatever trip they are on (or at least we'll see how long it lasts).

I just got the album, but I think I'm gonna wait for my friends to have a listening party.

I did have to sneak a hearing of Smoking for Shooting though. It was to good to pass up.

Quote

QuoteAlso, aMD, I'm glad you're still here.  On page 4 or so of this topic it reads that you are an "Ex Member."  At first, I didn't realize that this was a revived topic.  Welcome back from the dead?

Thanks! It's nice to feel welcome. some people on here just don't like me and try to make me feel unwelcome, I let them win for a little bit there, but it ain't happening again.


Thanks for this debate too guys. I still don't know exactly where I fall on it.  On one hand there are songs on the new record that are great and I know will be great live.  on the other hand, I just don't know if I like the album as a whole.  It's missing almost everything I love about the band other than tight-ass melodies.  I get that it's a departure and we shouldn't wish for the band to stay stagnant but I just don't think I like the new direction. i guess i figured the "departure" would be more experimental when in fact it's quite the opposite.

listening to it again I couldn't help but think, so this is what that Dave Berman was talking about, he is just faking it. and for the first time, the lyrics were something I tried not to pay attention to.  someone said they were too literal.  that's accurate but I don't know if that's really the problem.

I think what happened is for the first time they forced out an album.  ISM was in the bag for a long time before it was recorded so they had a long time to write Z.  I just feel like it's a little forced and therefore not as heartfelt or sincere.  Jim can still write better songs than most even when he's forcing it but when stacked up next to their other work, it falls short, IMO.

I don't have to like everything they do, hell my favorite artist in the world, bob dylan, has an entire decade of material I don't really like.  mmj will still continue to be my favorite band but when it comes to this album, mark me down as one of the alienated long-time fans wishing for a return to the good old days.

I'm glad we can talk about it without people jumping down our throats for whatever trip they are on (or at least we'll see how long it lasts).

this is interesting.......

there are a lot of examples like the your Dylan analogy. Neil Young, the Stones, etc. Like Wilco, too....i enjoyed the last album, but I don't necessarily pull it out to change my mood or anything...it's just a solid album....

now, I haven't heard the leak (just live stuff) and i'm planning on waiting until June 10th. I just have to think that I'm going to love this record more than most that I've heard lately. There's a lot of generic, boring music being made right now--in and out of the indie rock world.

hey...we'll always have those dark lonely nights with "At Dawn" on the turn table, lying on the floor contempating our very existence....

they can never take that away....



man....what the hell am i talking about???

Babab Booey!

I know I'm alienating myself by not being a "good fan" but so be it.  I figured I'd offer some hope against the negative reviews.  These are some of the most beautiful arrangements I've ever listened to.  This album is dripping with soul.  Is it a departure from their earlier stuff, sure, but it's fucking gorgeous.  When I read some of the negative things I really can't believe we're talking about the same album.  So, stay strong ye moral millionaires it will not disappoint.

I hope Pitchfork gives this album a horrible rating, it'll just show how out of touch they continue to be concerning MMJ.

I agree with Million when it comes to Dylan, he too is my fave but some of his catalog is piss poor. I kinda see this album as a combo of Self Portrait (Highly Sus, Remnants and Alum park) where they are trying to make bad stuff just to confound the critics and fans and Dylan's religious times(Im Amazed, Thank You and Look At You) these songs are obviously christian based songs even if you want to debate it till the cows come home. The idea of a "tweener' album is interesting also. I think these guys have such an immensly powerful body of work and a few of the new songs fit into that amazing sound like EU, Smokin and Touch Me Pt2. This may have been their album to get out of the way, reap the rewards of their long awaited recognition and then hole up for a rebirth. One thing is for sure in my mind, they are on a journey.

I have to say that Evil Urges may not be for everyone.
I honestly think it contains elements from "Z", elements from their first three albums, and something very new.
Okonokos proved to me (someone who hasnt had the gift of seeing them live, yet) that they are a great live band...and I thought that is what the band wanted to elaborate on with this record. They want to physically MOVE you.
I'm not going to rate on a scale, rather just give some thoughts.

"Evil Urges" - I feel this song is more closely related to Z than anything. Jim's falsetto is Curtis Mayfield-esque. The verses groove like "Off the Record" and the second chorus is very uplifting. The bridge breaks into an almost prog-rock jam...that I can only imagine will be killer to see live.

"Touch Me I'm Going To Scream (Part 1)" - The music reminds me of Radiohead, to tell you the truth. The electronic drums echo "Wordless Chorus" and the rhythm itself reminds me more of "It Beats 4 U". This is probably my least favorite track.

"Highly Suspicious" - I gotta say...when I saw the video on Rolling Stone for this, I wasn't sure what to really expect of this album. Jim's falsetto in this one sounds more like Prince than anything. The punchy drum/keyboard/guitar combo is right out of the 80's. I have to say though, regardless of being a departure of MMJ's past work, this song is definitely a guilty pleasure of mine. It does have a rockin' solo though.

"I'm Amazed" - This is where I feel the band starts sounding a little more familar. Jim's voice is 'back to normal'...great melody with a tinge of reverb. Great guitars. The band is just all on the same page here.

"Thank You Too" - It's kind of a sappy song...I mean, it's not bad. It's kind of soulful. I think the strings should have been left out of the first chorus to give the rest of the song a little more ethereal feeling. Again, it's not a bad song, just not the strongest track on the album. Great for a wedding or something, hahaha

"Sec Walkin'" - The band returns to it's country roots on this one. I'm a sucker for those old country western melodies, like what the band used in "Easy Morning Rebel" and others. This song's got it all. Good melody, good slide guitars. I love it, and it's probably one of my favorite tracks.

"Two Halves" - I read this was the first single? It's not a bad song, just not sure if would make a good first single, but hey, I don't make these decisions. The music sounds familar to "Lay Low" at first. The melody in the verses sounds familar to - ok, please don't kill me - Green Day's "Wake Me Up When September Ends". I know that's a crap comparison. Anyway, it almost sounds as if Jim is singing to us..."I know what you want, you want the better of two halves".

"Librarian" - Fingerpicked guitars and light strings brings Jim's vocals to the forefront. The narrator is fantasizing about the "sexiest librarian" as Jim sings "take off those glasses and let down your hair for me". This is kind of an oddly disturbing track to me, but this is coming from a band that sung about kittens on fire and babies in a blender. I like it though.

"Look at You" - A song with seemly religious references, as others have pointed out. A mellow song that could find it's home on one of MMJ's early records. Luckily, with only running at about three and a half minutes, it doesn't get too drawn out.

"Aluminum Park" - Things start kickin' again with this song. A little more upbeat, and easy to sing along to. The song brings back memories of "What A Wonderful Man" during the chorus and when Jim yelps before the guitar solo. Solid song.

"Remnants" - With a driving guitar riff, the band is rocking out again in probably the heaviest on the album. Solid, solid song. Will be great to see live.

"Smokin' From Shooting" - The song starts with a pulsing drum beat (that continues through out the entire song) with some faint laughter and the ringing of a bell in the background...enter in some slide guitar and it sounds as if the band is on it's way to create their own "Dark Side of the Moon". Great song. The song ends with some feedback and rumbling that, in classic Pink Floyd fashion, segues into...

"Touch Me I'm Going To Scream (Part 2)" - Luckily, the better half of the two part song...mesmerizing keyboards break into a disco-like beat that you can't help but move to. I feel this one will become a fan favorite, eventually. Along with the title track, this is probably my favorite of the "new" sound MMJ. Usually, I dread seeing a song over 8 minutes on my Ipod or Itunes, cause usually it's a real drawn out song that never seems to end, but I've never had a problem listening to this one in it's entirety. The last minute or so of keyboards sounds like The Big Wheel on the Showcase Showdown on "The Price is Right." I think the record should have ended here...

"Good Intentions" - But instead we get the waste-of-a-track of the band screaming. I thought it was kind of pointless.



Overall the album runs just under an hour, so it makes it a comfortable listen. I think this album will end up growing on a lot of people. But like I said, I think at least 9 of the 13 tracks (excluding "Good Intentions") are in some form or another, classic MMJ.

After the fifth listen, it just hit me.  For everyone that's a true fan, don't write this one off just yet.  It might be their best work to date! :)

QuoteI look at the "progression" of MMJ like this... Consider what you were listening to 10 years ago... Think of how much you personally have grown in musical taste.  I enjoy the occasional trip down memory lane, but on the whole, I have moved in a different direction.  Now think about a band.  I myself think it would be borinbg if every album sounded exactly like the one before it.  (Thats when you get U2)  I will always love the "early" MMJ, but I am open to following them in whatever direction they go.  As far as "Evil Urges," I think the songs are built to be performed LIVE.  Look at "Highly Suspicious" its goofy, but at the same time it is fun.  After a couple concerts under his belt, imagine what Jim is going to do to those two solos.  Those could both go on for as minute each.  Also, I imagine Touch Me I'm GOing to Scream Pt.2 following Dondante.  Anyway, that is just my two cents.  All I can hope for is MMJ will be around for a long long time.

all their albums already sound so different. i don't think thats the problem here.

(http://img100.exs.cx/img100/4372/CELINE_DION_MIRACLE-8.jpg)

QuoteI know I'm alienating myself by not being a "good fan" but so be it.  I figured I'd offer some hope against the negative reviews.  These are some of the most beautiful arrangements I've ever listened to.  This album is dripping with soul.  Is it a departure from their earlier stuff, sure, but it's fucking gorgeous.  When I read some of the negative things I really can't believe we're talking about the same album.  So, stay strong ye moral millionaires it will not disappoint.

this is good to hear indeed.....


i remember seeing Jim sing "Wordless Chorus" for the first time.....not much light, alone, no guitar....and it felt so damn soulful. The wife and I commented later that it reminded us of the footage from Otis Redding at Monterey...

so to hear how soulful you think it sounds really warms my heart!

(I'm quoting Coltrane above, but I jacked it up and can't fix it)

Speaking of Otis Redding, I have a friend who is a retired drummer of some prestige and he used to tour around in the late 50's and early 60's with all the greats.  Seriously, the greats: like Roy O. and shit. I hope I'm not speaking out of turn here.  This guy had loads of good stories, but in particular, this one time, he told me that they were somewhere in the South - I'm thinking they had driven from Nashville to Hotlanta, but I could be wrong here - and they were laying some stuff down in the studio.  At the end of the session everyone was kinda beat and ready to go but they had recorded everything they had intended so somebody said "anybody have anything else they want to record?" Nobody responded at first until they were just about to go ahead and wrap it up when the janitor made some noise in the back and said, yea, I have a song.  And Dock of the Bay was recorded for the first time.  

Seriously.  I'm not shitting you.

Quote(http://img100.exs.cx/img100/4372/CELINE_DION_MIRACLE-8.jpg)

celine dion? wow that's way too evil for my taste.

Librarian isn't sung by Jim

QuoteLibrarian isn't sung by Jim

Huh? Didn't hear it yet, but I can't see that being true.

Is it that dude from Fleet Foxes?

Quote

QuoteLibrarian isn't sung by Jim

Huh? Didn't hear it yet, but I can't see that being true.

No, no he's right.  It's Prince.

QuoteIs it that dude from Fleet Foxes?

nope...the dude from Band of Horses dueting with the dude from Fleet Foxes!

Quote

Quote

QuoteLibrarian isn't sung by Jim

Huh? Didn't hear it yet, but I can't see that being true.

No, no he's right.  It's Prince.

I actually just found out it is ghost r&b Jerry Garcia.

As with every MMJ album before it, this one is a grower for me.  After the first 3 or 4 listens I wasn't really sure what to think of it.  But now that I have a few more under my belt, it is becoming severely addicting.  I think it is never wise to review an MMJ album until you've listened to it at least 10 times as their songs almost always take a while to really reveal themselves.  My faves so far are I'm Amazed, Thank You Too (sounds sappy at first listen but, man, I love it now - great production and great playing, especially during the guitar solo), and the Smokin' From Shootin' and Touch Me Part 2 combo.  As far as Highly Suspicious, I think there are some great ideas in that song but it is poorly executed, mostly in the beginning verses.  Jim is just singing out of his range, which is understandable if you can't quite hit it live, but you shouldn't be singing something you can't hit when recording an album.  The good news is that Highly Suspicious fucking ripped live once the dual guitars came in at SXSW.  If you aren't really digging the album, give it a few more listens and it quite possibly will change your mind.