[kj] my two cents on the album

[Alex Smith]

In the same way the Republicans strenuously scold those who critiscize the War in Iraq because it arguably shows a lack of "support for the troops," I'm somewhat retiscent to start taking potshots at HOSANNAS here simply because the band -- or at least Raven -- has been known to read these missives. For all intents and purposes, the band sounds roundly fired up about the album, I don't want to discourage them (as if I'd have that sort've influence), especially given the fact that we shouldn't *really* be privvy to hearing it just yet anyway.

That said, as I much as I resisted all the offers and links and covert outlets to hear the record -- wanting, instead, to, as a fellow Gatherer suggested, let the tension build and hear it properly upon its intended release in March  --- I caven in and downloaded the entire fucker. Another reason for not wanting to hear it -- like anyone cares -- is that I've just started (as I've labouriously pointed out) a new job, and I'm finding it hard to concentrate on anything else. That said -- a Killing Joke is not just another workaday happening. How can I resist? So, at this risk of mentally associating the record with this awful malaise I'm experiencing (new kid in a clique-ridden school, etc.), I gave the album a spin on my walk to work this morning. 

I'm going to hold back on the critiscisms (I can't be the only one who wants to remain open-minded about the disc). I think "Majestic" and "Walking With Gods" are closest to what I expect from the band in terms of sound and greatness. If these aren't the final mixes (anyone?), I'd like to hear a *bit* more clarity and definition (it'd be nice to hear more of Raven's bass, for example).

And I'm concerned for Jaz's voice. Sing that way for too long and you're not going to have much of a voice left to speak of.....pardon the pun.

Alex in NYC