by Tyler Flynn
Beck is an alternative rock act from Los Angeles, and is known as one of the biggest names in the scene. While I’ve never been a dedicated fan, I’ve enjoyed his singles and other random songs that I’ve heard. When I was looking for some new music to listen to, I discovered that his album came out recently, and decided to give it a shot. After looking into it, I discovered that it was an acoustic “companion piece” to his 2002 release Sea Change.
Morning Phase is an incredible record. Full of folky acoustic elements, it seems to take a classic alternative look at the new acoustic folk scene that seems to be very popular nowadays. With a wide range of vocal styles, from his typical style to something that is reminiscent of Bon Iver, it gives the album a fresh new sound. It doesn’t seem like Beck is ripping off or trying to copy todays popular music, it seems that he has just taken influence from these new genres and it has changed his music.
Obviously, this isn’t his new sound, since it is just an “acoustic” album, but you can tell where his mind has gone after all of these years of releasing alternative rock records. It’s nice to get a fresh new sound, for both the artist and the listener. This gives the artist a vessel to express this type of music that doesn’t typically fit the norm of his or her releases.
Overall, this is a very solid record. Folky, acoustic, ambient and very emotional. I am very excited for Beck’s next release which is scheduled for later this year, and once the release date is set, I’ll be marking it on my calendar. Give this album a shot no matter what you listen to. It appeals to the masses. Favorite Tracks: "Blue Moon", "Unforgiven" and "Phase"
I just got around to listening to this and as a fan of Beck's more funky, eclectic style, I thought this album fell a little short. There were some catchy songs but the somber, melancholic lyrics and melodies tended to drone out even though it's a very "pretty" album. I could see how people would just listen to it and like it for what it is, but it's almost too simplistic and soft for me, especially with the tempo and amount of reverb used throughout.
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