The Beginning of a Legend...
Posted July 31, 2007
By Epilogue,
Switchfoot, quite arguably Christian Rock's most popular band, started off with a somewhat surprising album. Sure it contains lots of evidence as to what Switchfoot would eventually become, but overall, it's a different flavor - although some might argue, it is Switchfoot's true flavor.
Vocals/guitarist Jon Foreman, bassist Tim Foreman, and drummer Chad Butler bring together a set of tunes that contains some excellently crafted songs, but unless you are a Switchfoot fan, there might not be much here for you to enjoy.
The album showcases Jon Foreman's excellent songwriting and quirky humor almost right away. Chem 6A comes bopping in with a hokey riff, witty lyrics, and silly opening. You can almost hear the guys laughing throughout this song - they don't take themselves too seriously, which is good. A few so-so's follow in the form of 'Underwater', 'Edge of my Seat,' and 'Home.' Decent lyrics, decent music, and that undeniably catchy voice make them entertaining but passable. 'Might Have Ben-Hur' is another one of those silly songs that, once again, Switchfoot seems not to take to seriously.
Then comes the three best songs of the album with the catchy melancholy rocker 'Concrete Girl,' the expansive 'Life, Love, and Why?' and the beautiful 'You.' Switchfoot demonstrates their ability with lyrics, their diversity in music, and their seriousness best here. 'Ode to Chin' is somewhat obnoxious but their finale 'Don't Be There', while being cryptic, has a very beautiful chorus, though I've yet to figure out exactly what he's singing so earnestly about. The albums only total down point is the album opener, 'Bomb.' For an album as jumpy and interesting as this one is, I am clueless as to why such a dull, bland, and quiet song would be the opener - Chem 6A would have done much better.
So, if you're a Switchfoot fan, definitely pick this album up; its great to see their evolution from this excellent garage band to superstar band. If you're not, I'd advise you not to spend your money; although it contains some excellent songs, it probably won't be enough to warrant a non-Foot to spend cash this album.
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