Many rock music fans are disenchanted with the lack of creativity in the current mainstream, and it's easy to see why. The alternative bands of the '80s and '90s have surfaced and become the norm, leaving a large void of creative and independent bands. Even once redeeming local "underground" acts too often are disappointing second-rate punk and metal bands.
Experimentation in music has now become daring and risky. Outside of a select few R&B producers and artists, it's almost impossible to find an artist that experiments and succeeds. The latest release from Sparklehorse, It's a Wonderful Life, does just that.
A heavily-textured melancholy landscape, It's a Wonderful Life is a very good album. It's filled with interwoven melodies and sounds that are fresh and relaxing. Lyrical and musical mystery tie the album together, and keep the listener curious. The album fails in only one aspect. With a little bit more pop sensibility, it could have been a landmark album and commercial success.
The album starts with the title track, which introduces songwriter and singer Mark Linkous' soft and sweet vocals and his knack for odd and dark string arrangements. The next song, "Gold Day," brings it up a notch, adding a thumping bass line and a harder drum beat.
The best song on the album is "Piano Fire," which has a much more upbeat approach and a great chorus. P.J. Harvey adds harmonies to the track and makes the song that much better.
There are no bad songs on It's a Wonderful Life, yet there are some that seem too slow, and challenge the listener's patience. Still, each track has a solid vocal melody and unique instrumentation. There are no standard guitar, bass, and drum tracks. Every song is thickly layered and is a creative attempt at something bigger.
It's a Wonderful Life shows that Sparklehorse has something to offer along with more successful experimental bands such as Radiohead, Moby, and the Flaming Lips. Sparklehorse likely won't share these bands' commercial success, but will definitely be a treat for those who discover them.
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