--- In audities@yahoogroups.com, "Kevin Mathews" <kevin@...> wrote:
>
> Y'know, I have to confess that I had unconsciously decided to not 
like Belle 
> and Sebastian due to some of the hype that surrounded them but have 
to say 
> that I've changed my mind after listening to the new album, The Life 
> Pursuit. I've posted my review up to www.powerofpop.com if any one 
likes to 
> know more...


I have only downloaded 3 songs off the new one via Emusic. Thus, I 
admit, this isn't a fully informed opinion regarding the current disc. 
FWIW: I really liked last years disc as it branched out from the prior 
stuff (but I also have liked much of the prior albums too).

But to me, two of these songs are mining other groups influence a 
little to close for comfort.

"The Blues are Still Blue"--I hear T.Rex big time.
"Song for Sunshine"--Sly and the Family Stone.

It's subject, I know, all bands have influences and so on, but these 
songs while very listenable, just don't strike me as very inspired.  
That said, I do think Belle and Sebastian need to expand on what they 
are doing but I'm not sure this really works, for me. I get the 
feeling I'm in the minority. 
Again, I started with these tracks per reviews..I still need to dig 
deeper.

Steve D.