I don't understand how Cursive can not be the most critically acclaimed band in the world. I can understand why they are not popular in mainstream music, namely people are stupid and record labels aren't interested in artistic creativity. They are the second coming of Fugazi or the Pixies yet totally original in every sense of the word, the most creative band in years and this album proves it. I desperately tried to avoid hearing these songs, knowing I'd ruin it for myself before the album was released. I was unsuccessful obviously and I hate hyping things up but I'm floored. These songs absolutelty ooze with environment and mood. Tim Kashers voice is even more harsh and beautiful, his lyrics more clever and revealing than any one man need be. If this cd and this band doesn't get the recognition it deserves from whoever, I. . . I . . . I'll do nothing at all. But, I won't be happy about it! I dunno, buy the album.
my friend and i have long conversations about cursive. i dont prefer them too much, he doesnt prefer pearl jam too much. we both like the respective bands alot. it is fun to turn it into a big extravaganza of an argument. I dunno about mainstream. They are OK, and I would rather hear their stuff rather tahn alot of what is on the radio now, but i dont think that they will eve be "mainstream" Being unique, sadly, sort of disqualifies you from being so. But i dont think they are unique. Tim kashers voice pisses me off. But i like that you like the pixies. And Fugazi So you cant be that bad.
Um. Don't you think they would need to work on their lyrics a bit to be compared to Fugazi? Regardless, I actually like the good life (side project) more than cursive.
Two days ago I would have agreed with you all, regarding Fugazi/Pixies et al. being better bands in their respective times. But after hearing Cursive's new songs I can't honestly say I've ever heard more well crafted, artistic, innovative songs in my lifetime. I would never take anything away from those bands, not at all. Rather, it seems like every generation has a few bands, maybe even one, that inherit this spirit of creativity that changes every band in their genre thereafter. Cursive, it seems is that band right now. The rhythm section are constantly stopping and starting, the guitars exploring different sounds through harmonics and plucking techniques and the cello is dynamic; be it by backing the music, following the rhythm section or in the forefront like a lead guitar. Lots of organ, bells, piano and what not give the tracks a darker more ethereal aesthetic. There’s also a guest appearance by Conor Obherst on one song where he and Tim harmonize and it comes off flawless. I really like Tim Kashers voice, it has grown on me. I don't think you can question his lyrics, they aren't political but in terms of defining a bad relationship (read: divorce) or exposing ones soul in earnest he is really good. On the track "Driftwood" he equates himself to Pinocchio in an interesting way. I think he's very clever actually. The Good Life's last cd is really great too; I just heard it a few days ago. Actually, many of these songs remind me of the Good Life in that they are less post hardcore and more artsy American indie rock with tons of effects and sounds that accentuate the songs. I always liked this band, but this cd just put them at the top of my personal queue.