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July 6, 2007
New R.E.M.; Vedder goes solo
If you're still a fan of alternative music with a big splash of real rock, you must be happy this week because R.E.M. debuted at least 10 new songs during a series of live "working rehearsals" held before lucky crowds in Dublin.
Here's a link to YouTube videos of the news songs, which remind me of the band's early material. R.E.M.'s new album is due out sometime later this year.
ANALYSIS: The new songs sound great and remind me of the band's early works during the late 80's and mid-90's. Each has a "Document," "Out of Time," "Automatic For The People," "New Adventures in Hi-Fi" feel to it. This is good, when you consider the band's last two albums, "Reveal" and "Around the Sun" weren't so great. They are back to rockin' the joint out.
There's also word that Pearl Jam's Eddie Vedder will release his first-ever solo album, a product of his work on Sean Penn's forthcoming film, "Into the Wild." Vedder's tunes will appear in the film, which hits theaters Sept. 21. The solo album, released sometime in September, will be distributed by J Records.
Vedder contributed music to Penn's 1995 film, "Dead Man Walking," and 2001's "I am Sam."
ANALYSIS: Vedder solo efforts are typically great, but you can always count on a clunker or two. Vedder (who wrote "Betterman") also penned the anti-war tune "No More," which feels like it could have been, well, so much more. Bottom line: If he releases, say nine songs, you can count on seven of them being four-star quality.
Have a great weekend, everyone.
— Andy
Posted by Andy Ravens at July 6, 2007 10:36 AM