Idaho music Message boardfavorite? | from RossJul 24 2001 - 08:41
That's a tough one. I couldn't exactly pick out one favorite, but here's my thinking about some of my favorites:
1) This Way Out
This was the first Idaho record I bought. Two things about this record amazed me (aside from the obvious song quality): the first being this atmosphere of vastness and isolation, that is carried out with equal effectiveness through all the songs; the second being the lyrics. I am not a lyric guy, not to say I don't care about or enjoy lyrics -I just can never remember them. Whether it was the repetitive listening, or a subconcious thing, I could sing along every word before I was even aware of it.
2) Bayonnette E.P.
This, my second Idaho record, was when I realised the genius of Jeff's writing. Upon my initial listen 'Only Maybe', I was floored at how I couldn't even begin to figure out where the melody, vocal line, and lyrical story was going. I've read it where Jeff has stated that his lyrics are somewhat haphazardly conceived, and I've even read him to say that he's amazed at how people are affected by them. I guess that's why he's the artist and we his audience. Listen to 'Sliding Past' and tell me that you don't feel something, that there's not a story there. Although, I could just be talking out of my ass, here.
3) Forbidden E.P.
Strictly from a production values stand-point, this is the most perfectly recorded record of all time. That's not lip service, either. Never have I hear such an organic sounding record that is, at the same time, gloriously rich sounding, hi-fi. Everything is perfect here, drums, bass, guitars, and especially vox. On a content level, I have to say that there isn't a song on there that isn't a gem. This album was, and is, a complete and total inspiration to me and my then girlfriend, and now wife. I wouldn't be exaggerating if I said that the album and the other were directly related. Oh, the song sequencing was also perfect.
4) People Like Us Should Be Stopped
For two reasons. One, Idaho puts on the most awesome and powerful show I've ever seen. There's something engrossing about music and the liner-notes. You can really sit there and try to picture it the scene. I also love the segues and "Tear".