Faith No More
The Real Thing

THE REVIEW

"Introduce Yourself" might have already seemed like a pinnacle for Faith No More. But the entry of Mike Patton into the group revolutionized the group's dynamics.

All the charisma of the new singer explodes in the 11 tracks of "The Real Thing," which does not improve the band's sound, but simply makes it more appealing. This fact is not of secondary importance, especially considering the popularity of Crossover. Tracks like "Epic" are fundamental in the evolution of the genre; not for any special qualities, but because they exemplify a formula. In this case, it's a simple furious rap and a majestic chorus, which are nonetheless set in an exhilarating musical frame; irresistible rhythm, prominent bass lines, great atmosphere, keyboards and guitars in unison, unmatched momentum, and even a pianistic finale.

The opening track is "From Out Of Nowhere"; the start is unrestrained. We are faced with something profoundly different, in intent, from the previous album. If before they aimed to hit hard and daze, now the band seems aimed at enchanting and captivating. The initial shower of guitars makes this clear; synth effects, impeccable melody, stretched chorus. The content is there, only the form changes. Faith No More can afford much more than they thought with Patton and essentially gift us impeccable rock tracks; it may be mainstream, it may lack originality, but the quality reaches extraordinary levels. "Falling To Pieces" does nothing but reinforce this idea because it is, in essence, a modern rock ballad, where melancholy is only glimpsed, well disguised by epic tones and compelling rhythms.

With "Surprise! You’re Dead!" we find something different; it seamlessly shifts from hardcore influences to metal ones. An excellent Patton does much of the work, launching into an angry and wonderful song, completed by a very vehement guitar riff. All packaged in a standard alternative rock package, which becomes all too evident with "Zombie Eaters"; it's fine that the new singer is a marvel, but here perhaps they push things a little too far. Despite being a perfectly composed track, it seems a bit artificial. The change in rhythm is quite banal. Nothing really bad, just a drop in originality.

It continues on decent levels with the title track, a constant evolution, through Patton's various vocal timbres and diversified rhythms. One can trace here the origins of nu metal, something that can be a positive or not. "Underwater Love" is a pleasant drop in tension that leads us to the remarkable "The Morning After", a disorienting mixture of intense atmospheres, intense singing, and engaging rhythm.

Another gem is "Woodpecker From Mars"; an Arabian violin that etches itself onto raw bass, giving life to something unique. A ride in the desert with a blazing sun that burns our skin. "War Pigs" is yet another excellent showcase for Patton, who truly performs miracles on this album, reviving even the less interesting tracks. The conclusion is atypical; the wonderful serenade "Edge Of The World", a demonstration of how Faith No More travel on transverse tracks, also thanks to Patton who, for a change, pours his soul into it.

"The Real Thing" is, in short, a more accessible work than its predecessor; it doesn't reach its quality due to some small imperfections and moments that verge on tediousness. Nonetheless, the beauty of these songs is undeniable, which manage to captivate immediately without giving up their fiercest soul.