THE HAZARDS OF LOVE

I have persevered with this album for a long time, always re-returning to see what all the fuss is about. Each time I have to admit I end up even more perplexed than the last time. Yes there are elements of folk to be sure, with tons of alternative/indie nuances. Yes it is a throughly well thought out conceptual work with a great storyline reminiscent of one of those great 70's band that sang about hermaphrodites and Salmacis, and finally, yes, great musicianship. As far as the album goes it is far too predictable, cliched and a tad bit plagiaristic. I ask myself how did 70's/80's bands manage pompous storylines, in your face pretentiousness and downright self indulgence. The simple answer is: Musically superior. Hazards of Love whilst being an OK work just does not hold up musically in terms of depth. Reading some of the reviews it is obvious that this reviewer is in the minority. Oh well, we can't like them all.