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Rating: THE REVIEW
The return of Pearl Jam in 2006; the energy, the strength, the sounds of the concert I saw in 1996 in Milan are kept in a little corner of my heart among the best memories, and since then I am always anxious when I await each of their new albums.
At first listen, something has changed in the sounds compared to the modest "Riot Act": the sound of the guitars is full, aggressive and seventies more than ever, and it's a good start since the first three tracks are fast-paced and give the impression that the Seattle group hasn't forgotten how to break down the rock sound barrier.
Certainly, the composition of the pieces is classic (see the single "World Wide Suicide"), let's say respectful of tradition, but thanks to a Mike McCready in a state of grace, the guitar slices through banality with killer riffs and noisy flourishes that break up the unfolding of the songs. When the initial outburst subsides, you move on to pieces like "Marker In The Sand" and "Parachute": a delicate ballad with an unexpected final solo in the style of Bowie's "Ziggy Stardust."
After two captivating tracks: "Unemployable" (with music by Matt Cameron and socially engaged lyrics) and Big Wave, you get to "Gone" with a slow and obsessive pace that leads to a stadium-like chorus, which I would say is the best track on the album, destined to rise to the encore hall of fame at the end of concerts. Certainly, the good news about the band's state of health continues with the final two tracks: "Come Back" and especially "Inside Job," a long ballad enriched with psychedelic sounds and a violin to underline its melancholy. Truly great.
Eddie Vedder and his choked and warm voice, enveloping and overwhelming, continues to mark the generations that grew up in the years of Kurdt's death, sweeping away, year after year, the poor attempts of the clones, poorly achieved in results but well paid by the record companies.
Now after the rush for tickets, I'll let you know about the live shows in Italy in September very, very gladly.
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Summary by Bot
This review highlights Pearl Jam's strong 2006 album, emphasizing its aggressive and seventies-inspired guitar sounds. The album balances fast rock tracks with delicate ballads, showcasing Mike McCready’s standout guitar work and Eddie Vedder’s expressive vocals. Memorable songs like 'Gone' and 'Inside Job' underline the band’s continuing vitality and connection to their roots. The reviewer fondly recalls past concerts, eagerly anticipating their live shows.Tracklist Lyrics Videos
Pearl Jam
Pearl Jam is an American rock band formed in Seattle in 1990, fronted by Eddie Vedder, known for landmark early albums and a reputation for intense live performances.71 Reviews
Other reviews
By antuana
"Come back... yes, they have made a great return... without a doubt."
"Inside Job has at least three climaxes with significant variations and a massive presence of guitars... a great closing track that wants to emphasize the incredible health of the best ROCK band on the planet."
By puntiniCAZpuntini
Pearl Jam’s self-titled album is a return that doesn’t leave a mark.
These Pearl Jam are harmless, they don’t give us any memorable track, but rather a carefully crafted aurea mediocritas.
By franza
Fans most attached to the band’s early works say that Pearl Jam is back... I say they never left and I hope they continue to make great music with simplicity.
"Come Back"... This song makes you daydream. So close your eyes anyway... and listen.
By satavtar
Pearl Jam is certainly not innovators; neither the style, nor the artistic solutions... It’s their passion that infects, that makes them one of the best bands in activity.
The passion in this latest release never excites, but it will guarantee us a great sweat in the live performances in September in Italy.
By Meleodocinio
Pearl Jam is a group that uses music as a means of communication. Of an idea, of an emotion.
One cannot have the presumption to imagine what an artist can give us and—fatal flaw—remain disappointed if expectations are unmet.
