SIREN

The questions this time around are very simple ones. How much do you like Elton John and Tom Petty? Okay, if you answered that with anything other than 'bunches!', then feel free to inch yourself away from the stereo. Question two: How much do you like Bryan Ferry's vocals? If you answered that with anything that isn't as powerfully positive as 'quite a damn bit', then feel free to inch yourself away from the stereo once more. Finally, how much does the idea of crossing country-western music with glam and disco appeal to you? If you answered this last inquiry with anything lesser than 'oh, it' sounds ooby dooby', then feel free to step a few inches from your stereo. Now, if you are still close enough to your stereo to turn it on and play Siren, then go right ahead. You'll probably have yourself a fine experience and we can all agree on what is both good and bad about it. Oh, don't lean on tippy-toes, that shit is cheating.

As I stated in my opening paragraph, Siren is the fifth studio album from RM and it sounds awkwardly similar to a Roy Orbison/Elton John/Tom Petty piano pop jam session, crossed with their mutual interests in country and disco music. Are you frightened yet? Well, let me alleviate some of tat dire worry by saying that my overall reaction to the album was rather positive. And nothing is as simple as that, because Ferry, at this point, would never give up his 'edge'. Which is why 'Sentimental Fool' exists. It's this slowly grinding electric sludge and bass tune that goes on for what seems to be infinity. These folks ain't no King Crimson, I say, but when his singing does break in, introducing the song, proper, it's a slick ride.

But gosh is this a step down from their usually consistent quality. It's loud for the sake of being loud, and not for the sake of really pushing any climactic musical ideas. 'Whirlwind' is just too simplistic and monotonous for me to grab on to and appreciate fully. It's your typical arena-metal song, and I don't need that when Judas Priest is around, do I? I can't be all harsh, this album's worth grabbing if you're done with the first four. 'She Sells' has a nice strut to it. I can see this influencing a lot of Jeff Lynne's eventual creations. Don't discount it because I said the word 'disco', but don't expect a wonderful trip. Take my word: try it if you're bored.

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