Ben Folds - Song for Silverman

Posted by: woodface on 05 May 2005

I bought this album earlier this week and have to say it is an absolute cracker. Ben Folds doesn't always get the best of press but I have always found his music to be different and engaging. The album is packed full of good melodies and sharp lyrics. I think, because he does not take himself too seriously, he is much maligned as a novelty act; be assured this guy is serious musician but he is just not po faced about it! Go and buy it, you will not be dissapointed.

Posted on: 05 May 2005 by Bruce Woodhouse

Thanks for that, might have a punt on it. Had not realised he was now a solo act. Seem to have lost the Ben Folds Five album I owned, but I remember it as being a bit different and interesting.

I'll return the favour by saying-go buy the eponymous Hal album. Joyous friendly puppy of a record, poppy, jangly, sparky and fresh. Like Grand Drive but faster with a hint of Beach Boys and a smidge of mid-era Blur.

Does that make any sense?

Samples here.
Review here.

Bruce

BTW the Aimee Mann album seems a bit uninspired;
listening on the website lost them a sale.

Posted on: 06 May 2005 by fred simon

I've loved Ben Folds since Whatever and Ever Amen. Smart sense of humor, yes, but so tuneful, and outstanding songcraft. I thought Rockin' the Suburbs was flat out brilliant, and I'm really looking forward to Songs for Silverman.

Posted on: 06 May 2005 by woodface

Hi Fred, Rocking the Suburbs is a great album; 'it hurts to grow up' is quite possibly the saddest most moving song I have heard in the last 10 years! Bruce: sorry to hear your not buying the the new Aimee Mann; I have not really had a proper listen myself but I always find her music very layered so it takes a bit of time to appreciate. As an aside the new Ryan Adams record (a double CD) is superb and is cheap at around a tenner. I will have a listen to the Hal samples, cheers.

Posted on: 06 May 2005 by fred simon

quote:
Originally posted by woodface:
Hi Fred, Rocking the Suburbs is a great album; 'it hurts to grow up' is quite possibly the saddest most moving song I have heard in the last 10 years!

Or ever, as far as I'm concerned. That's one of the best things about Folds: his ability to express darker emotions without getting maudlin ... it's the bittersweet thing.