JJLara

Despite being an obvious let-down, Second Coming is not as bad as its reputation suggests.

There are several problems with this album the biggest one being the hype and expectations. The band getting a more guitar-oriented bluesy approach does not help those craving a replica of their debut album. The band sounds too self-indulgent at times and the songs feel shallow. While John Squire's guitar shines, Ian Brown's vocals are beyond laughable. The intro of "Good Times" redefines the ... read more

Fresh and straightforward, Violent Femmes' debut album represents like no other the angst and insecurities of adolescence.
Gordon Gano might not be a great vocalist but sounds so raw and authentic he completely sells it. The acoustic bass of Brian Ritchie pushes songs like "Promise" to the next level and the hilarious xylophone-driven "Gone Daddy Gone" is just too catchy and quirky it's impossible not to love it.

Difficult to label, although Folk Punk is arguably the ... read more

America's debut album is a feast of beautiful vocal harmonies and intertwined acoustic guitars. The evoking hit "A Horse With No Name" barely sticks out on an album full of tasty deep cuts.
Listen feels gloomy and cozy throughout. An album that is easy to often come back to. A testament of the highest quality 70s Folk Rock that would influence so many bands on the following decades.

Verdict: Discover America

An album so massively praised that humble non-habitual Jazz listeners like me feel guilty downrating.

Basically we have some great musicians jamming in here. The album starts with the Cool Jazz anthem "So What" which is a great song with a ridiculously catchy double bass line. Unfortunately, from there on the record melts into pleasant but tasteless background music that makes you feel like multitasking.

And, as a matter of personal taste, I find the trumpet an annoying instrument ... read more