Better Than Ezra's seventh studio album, "Paper Empire" (released on the Mega Force Label/May 12, 2009) offers an insight into their determination to bring out a set of solid, listenable tunes that are reminiscent of past studio albums such as 2001's "Closer" and 2005's "Before The Robots". With a mix of pop ballads ( I.E., "Just One Day" and the quasi-ballad "Absolutely Still"), rebel rousing rockers (I.E., "All In" and "Hell No") and funky, danceable songs ( I.E., "Nightclubbing" and "Black Light") ---the album displays a subtle, steady -eddie strength which has defined the group since their "Deluxe" debut.
The most memorable music of "Paper Empire" seems to be contained in the ballads, especially the heart-felt, thought provoking "Just One Day"; the rocking quasi-ballad sound of "Absolutely Still" (which boasts a terrific abstract accompanying video) that showcases Kevin Griffin's strong lyrics with Tom Drummond's deft bass-playing ; and the mellow "Fit".
Light, infectious rocking songs also pepper the album: although some of the rocking songs aren't as memorable as the ballads, the track "Hell No" could easily be adopted as an anthem by a sports team, high school senior class, or just a life-in-general type of way. The playfully light, fun song "All In" (which is somewhat reminiscent of BTE's "Extraordinary" ) highlights their versatility of melding fun lyrics with the playful use of keyboards, cymbals/drums, and light bass---and will have most fans singing along for the heck of it.
"Paper Empire" rounds itself out with a few notable funk-filled, danceable songs that Better Than Ezra have been known for in the past ( I.E., "Juicy" from 2005's "Before The Robots"): "Nightclubbing" hit's the floor with a fun, strong danceable groove, yet, the most memorable dance groove can be found with the highly infectious, lyrically fun "Black Light".
Though subtle strength has helped Better Than Ezra endure for a long period of time (the band began in 1988) through some very rough waters (personal tragedies, label bankruptcies, a few member's departures), "Paper Empire" ultimately doesn't achieve the trailblazing sound that is necessary to catapult the band to further rock star status. Although "Paper Empire" may fail to catapult Better Than Ezra into the rock star stratosphere, it's a pretty solid, steady-eddie release that will definitely grab up kudos from BTE's faithful fans, the Ezralites, which garners a four star rating from this recent fan (****).
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Comments: 4
I used to love Better Than Ezra! I had no idea they were still around. I need to find some more of their stuff because I'm sure I'd like it all.
Yes, they are still around and gearing up for another tour as of this weekend ;). It's not too hard to find most of their albums---all one needs to do is look on sites such as www.amazon.com or www.ebay.com: you could even try your local best buy. You can also keep up with Better Than Ezra happenings through their website: www.betterthanezra.com. Welcome back, fellow ezralite!
How ironic... Walmart has Better Than Ezra as their free download of the week.
Although my timing with this article is highly coincidental, the free download is a great way to experience some of the album's music, and, one of the better songs from "Paper Empire". Don't be discouraged by the review---take a listen for yourself ;) !