YoYoMan wrote: Since you also got into their stuff after their reunion, question for you - did you not also notice the band sounded totally different in the 80's? I found it crazy how different their 80's stuff sounded from Evergreen - and their stuff after. If one was to get into the Stone Roses through this last single of theirs, I don't think they'd be shocked by what they sounded like in 89. Consider they had 21 years between albums, and EATB only had 10. What did you think?
I’ve started my acquaintance with EATB by listening to some Greatest Hits compilation which consisted of both 80’s and 90’s more commercially successful, but less inventive songs (no tracks like Over The Wall or With A Hip). At this stage, I didn’t notice that much difference between 80’s and 90’s material.
When I turned my attention to proper albums, I obviously noticed the difference and I totally agree with Mr. Brian’s points about how Ian’s singing style has changed and the difference in songwriting approach based on all band members’ participation or lack of it. But somehow, I don’t consider this change shocking or disappointing. I prefer bands that change from album to album – it’s all about progress and development. And there was plenty of it during the original band’s existence – e.g., isn’t there a world of difference between HUH and Ocean Rain, which are only 3 years apart?
As I joined the club so much later than anybody else, I try to enjoy what I can get rather than grieve over things I missed. So I’m glad that Ian is in better vocal and physical form now than a few years ago and that last year EATB added an extra concert in Liverpool instead of cancelling the one first announced.
Also, for me personally, lyrics is possibly as big (if not bigger) an attraction of EATB as their music. And all through the years Ian’s lyrics are full of recurring images (stars/rain/sea and other marine themes/ Heaven & Hell, etc.) and twisted coined phrases and other wordplay. So from my point of view lyrics tie 80’s and later material together.