Reviews (page 9 of 13)
I cant even objectively OR subjectively rate this so
Yes! What can I say I like sad…
i really enjoyed this album i didn’t think i would enjoy it but my favourites are definitely you can’t always get what you want and gimme shelter. there were a few songs which were more country style but they are still good songs, but not my favs.
Overall: 6/10 There are moments in here that I enjoy, but listening to this kind of felt like listening to one 50 minute song. Hopefully one day I can come back to it and learn to appreciate but for now it's kind of bland. Slight Update: I had time to listen to this more than once so I took advantage of that. Upon relistening I definitley enjoyed it more, I still think it's way too long and I don't think Beck has a great voice for the type of sadboy vibe he's going for but it's a solid effort. Fav Song: Lost Cause Least Fav Song: Round the Bend
Actually quite enjoyed this one. Surprisingly.
Sad!
I am not a beck enjoyer. I thought it was extremely medium
Pleasant but fairly boring. Other Beck music that I know is more interesting, but I like it for work background music
A little slow for my taste but good background music
A 90s slacker alt rock take on Nick Drake. Slow and somber songs with folksy acoustic guitar at the center of understated and tastefully lush arrangements that sound a bit like Beta Band. Beck delivers a sensitive and hushed vocal performance. Their whole thing has a melancholy wistful mood. Nothing especially original, but all extremely well crafted and executed, it's comfortingly familiar sounding even though I never (consciously) listened to this when it came out.
Great album
Nice and sad album
Completely different style, with this clearly being a breakup album with more sentimental lyrics (albeit abit cliche). Liked it but not sure if I’d listen again as it feels somewhat generic
Dark but still Beck. Slower, Americana-tinged breakup songs pull you into a world of hurt. But little glimpses of optimism percolate up here and there. Like life. Beck is always a good listen.
Okay, okay! Took a minute, but three albums of Beck under the belt and we're finding common ground. ✅✅ The Golden Age ✅✅ Guess I'm Doing Fine
I'm over 650 albums into this project, and this will be my first Beck album to review (still no sign of any of the Madonna albums though). I know a handful of Beck's songs, but the only whole album of his that I've listened to is Colors, which I really enjoyed. Based on the reviews for this album, I'm expecting to enjoy it, so let's get this party started! This album wasn’t really my jam, but from an objective standpoint, I thought it was good. The songwriting, while pretty abstract at times, had a level of sincerity and vulnerability to it that I wasn’t expecting from Beck. Musically, the arrangements were great, and I loved the orchestra playing that was present throughout the album. Beck clearly knows his stuff when it comes to making music, and this album showcases his skills really well. I think I went into this expecting something that had the more upbeat pop sounds of Colors, but with deeper lyrics, but this album was definitely more melancholy in its sound. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, but I didn’t really expect it. “Sunday Sun” was my favorite song on the album. I loved the dreamy sound, and the piano and guitar sounded great together. I wish I would have had the opportunity to listen to this album again, but unfortunately, I didn’t. Had I had the chance, I might have ranked this album a little higher, because I think my expectations for this album were so far from reality that it threw me off. I’m still looking forward to more of Beck’s music, and I’d be open to revisiting this one someday as well.
Albumi #137, 17.12.2024 Surullinen albumi, jonka Beck tiettävästi teki pitkän parisuhteen loppumisen mainingeissa. Hieno albumi kaikessa melankoliassaan, mutta ei lukeudu Beckin parhaiden joukkoon.
6/10
A very pretty, very low energy album. Some days I really like it, and other days I’m just not in the mood. Lost Cause truly is a beautiful song.
Different sound to what I remember Beck being like, and I'm not sure I liked it
I’m not sure how Beck manages to have multiple albums on this list. It’s ok music, nothing special. Middle of the road music. Would have preferred something a little more meaty for a weekend listen. 2.5 rounded up to 3
Dreamy and dull - this was ok, nothing really captured me Great name though
this is so frustrating because he can make some absolutely BEAUTIFUL sounds and then uses them to make nothing songs. idk it just does not hit. A lot of gorgeous instrumental passages though
It is a good album, but it is more noteworthy as a stylistic change than it is impressive on its own
Easy listening / indie rock. Some songs had great sound scapes.
Very 2000s, nostalgic folksy rock, no stand outs.
Yeah good, dude is going through some stuff and it’s quite melancholic and chilled. Solid 3 I’d say
A fine, gentle album.
Somber, sad, lush string sections, gentle guitar-picking. It all sounds beautiful, but at times, the songs morph into one sorrowful mush. It feels like the record could be a couple tracks shorter and still fully convey the heartbreak and emptiness that Beck experiences. Standout Tracks: Golden Age, Paper Tiger, Lonesome Tears, Sunday Sun
Mixed feelings, maybe I need to listen to it again. Some nice sounds though
Okay-ish
Enjoyed this, but maybe not as much as I did the previous Beck album. Simpsons: Yes (and Futurama etc)
Good monging out music. But generally it's just OK.
Sad music can be quite beautiful, but this isn't quite there. There's something about it that's missing but I can't quite put my finger on what. I thought 'Paper Tiger' and 'Little One' were the best tracks for their use of strings and they build up nicely to an epic ending. I find Beck's vocals to be quite pleasant to listen to. Not bad by any means but it's a bit long for an album where every song sounds very similar to each other. Some good moments, but a little boring in places.
Not bad but pretty boring from the usual Beck music.
ok
The beauty is definitely there, e.g. Lost Cause, but - I hate to say it - the album as a whole tends to boredom.
I'm a big fan of Beck but this one is a little too sappy and melodramatic for me. It lacks so much of his unique creativity that sets his music apart from any other artist. It's clear that a lot of this was written from a place of pain and despair as it doesn't sound like Beck is having fun at any point on this album. In a vacuum Sea Change is a pretty good album, its just my least preferred version of Beck. I much prefer when he is integrating strange sounds and cryptic lyrics in an alt-pop rock style. I can see how it could be a critical darling, but for me it gets shelved as there are so many other Beck albums I'll reach for before Sea Change. I can take it or leave it personally. 2.59 stars
Decent depending on the mood
Nice background music
This was not what I was expecting at all. I haven’t listened to much Beck except for his mid-90s stuff, but this was great with a hint country in there. Sad and moving music. I liked it just enough.
Tough album for me to rate. I wasn’t familiar with this album prior to the listen, so, like others, I was thrown off by the lack of breakbeats and samples. The obvious theme and feel of the album is melancholy. It’s a sad one to sit through, but it is a shockingly beautiful album at the same time. In some ways, I think it may be better than anything I’d heard from him in the past. There’s so much emotion, and the songs have so much tension, especially with the layering strings. But, I just don’t know how much I’ll revisit this album, as I usually prefer more upbeat music. I’m at like a 3.5
Oh, a sad album. Plodding and a bit forgettable. Not for me, I am afraid so not something I'll play again.
I never really enjoy Beck’s downtempo stuff as much. This has some great songs for when you’re just in that kind of mood, but there’s a ton of filler that all sounds like each other. Cut the run time by a third, and gain a star.
There are a couple of interesting songs here but overall I find it pretty dull. 3 stars or C-.
Wenn ich beschließe mein irdischen Dasein zu beenden, werde ich zur Sicherheit nochmal diese Platte hören. Erinnert mich an Nick Drake. Und der hat es ja geschafft.
Good, but the alt rock that leaves my brain as soon as the song ends
pretty good album, it is mastered beautifully, but overall it goes on for too long... Favourite Song = Its all in your mind
The album can feel a bit repetitive, and some tracks blend together in a way that makes it hard for them to stand out. I found myself zoning out at times, which makes it harder to stay engaged. It’s a good album for when you’re in the mood for something mellow but it might not be one I’d put on repeat.
This was fine for a chill album. Certainly more accessible than some of Beck's other stuff. 3.1
Easy album to listen to. I've never paid much attention to Beck but this is decently done. Hard to give it notes. I'm not the target but I can't see anything wrong with it.
chill folk music. feels a bit too barebones for me. almost like background music in an open world game sometimes
Lovely but it drags just a bit. His monotone voice without any range gets tiresome.
When autoplay continued after this album completed, and played Missing from Guero. I didn't realise it had changed albums and thought "ah, I like this one more than the other tracks.". So yeah, I prefer Guero (and Odelay). This is good, but not great. I prefer slightly livelier Beck.
I do like the style but none of the tracks really spoke to me that much I think I'll give it another listen
After a single play through this hits along the high 3, low 4 territory. Something like a 7.7/10. Compared to the other Beck albums on the list, this is my least favorite. It is also the most melancholy and "mature" sounding of the bunch. Beck trades in his breakbeat samples and electronic effects for acoustic guitar, sweeping strings, and occasional southern twang. Across all of it, Beck's sleepy vocals drone away. The effect is a placid album that holds a middle line all the way through with only a few notable exceptions. Of those exceptions, Paper Tiger calls to a similar vibe that late-career Radiohead conjures with a clean shifting drum beat, sweeping strings, and echoey vocals. Little One (possibly the best track here) is another standout for its brighter/psych feeling production. I could see this being a good album for a long car ride on a sunny day. The whole thing feels like a sad smile.
Very different Beck album compared to his others. This one reminded me a lot of Radiohead; maybe Kid A? Gloomy for sure, not quite my cut of the jib, but I enjoyed it as a whole. Could see this being a 4 in the right environment, but it'll settle for a 3 today.
3/5 - slow and sad but enjoyable Standout tracks: - End of the day 4/5 - I like Beck's voice in this and guess I'm doing fine
Sad rock music. Not bad, but nothing particularly interesting either. Stand-out: Lost Cause
I enjoyed listening to these mellow grooves. 3
Sad montage music.
Kaks ja puol tähteä, joka voisi päivästä riippuen keikahtaa kumpaan suuntaan tahansa. Tänään oli ankean harmaa aamu, johon levy sopi tunnelmaltaan - lyödään siis kolmonen.
decent but it's a tad bit wishy washy
Pleasant enough, but nothing really stood out
Great background, lazy voice that didn’t do anything exciting. Basically took a trip to mid city and brought back a keychain. 3 stars, should be 2.5.
Meh. Nothing really distinguishes one track from the next.
Another day I think I would have really felt this, but today it’s a 3.
was alright, it was a very calming album, but not something i’d listen to again.
I've listened to Becks earlier stuff (Odelay, One Foot In The Grave, Mellow Gold) and read a bit about him and Calvin Johnson recording One Foot In The Grave. But I've never gotten super into him. This album is a pretty big departure from what Beck's known for, pretty cool and not what I was expecting. I read it's a breakup album for him, so that makes sense. Sunday Sun is my favorite track on first listen.
This album is definitely passing me by a little. It's a little too slow paced and understated to really grab me. "Lost Cause" is the first song I'm actively enjoying. I didn't tab over and check out many individual songs. The album was a bit of a same-y blur. It wasn't an unpleasant blur but it didn't have much to offer for me. 6/10
I remember beck from eternal sunshine of a spotless mind, and this album definitely sounds like the same style, and that's a good thing
Good musicality but gloomy feeling to me
Ok
Good chill music. Really liked the directional audio. Not super memorable though because of the amount of chill. Kind of a double edged sword. Nice because I can relax to it, but because it is relaxing it isn't super memorable.
Beck looks like Michael Cera on the cover of “Sea Change.” On the album itself, he sounds like something that Paulie Bleaker or Scott Pilgrim would mope to. While it may display a lot of maturity and artistic growth, it’s just not very interesting most of the time. Late on “Lonesome Tears” we finally get some build and rise, but it never quite fulfills its possibility.
It’s like Beck decided to make an Elliott Smith album. It’s not bad, it’s just not Beck-y. Sad Beck is pretty but maybe not as interesting.
The songs were pretty and they all sounded exactly the same
Emo Beck, I feel you bro.
man, i really wanted to like this one more! i think i prefer a jazzier beck. i was excited to see this one but it was just okay to me.
hmm, not sure how to feel about this. it's basically only beck in name alone and sounds nothing like his other work (whether that's good or bad, I'll leave up to you). this is just beck being a sad boy for... 52 straight minutes??? ok damn dude we get it, you had a rough breakup, there's no need to record twelve nearly identical 4-5 minute songs about it. just bottle those emotions up and/or turn to mind-altering substances like the rest of us, sheesh. favorites: i didn't *love* any of these, but paper tiger, guess I'm doing fine, lost cause, sunday sun, and little one all had parts i enjoyed
nice album, nothing special
Alright. Not my favourite but alright enough.
i liked it a lot - but after a while, some of it sounded real similar to itself.
Great wallowing in sadness album. Great sonic production by Nigel Godrich. Not what I expect from Beck based on his earlier, popular work. I guess I’m more of a “two turntables and a microphone” guy. 3⭐️
First two songs are really good. Some boring songs in here but overall not too bad.
I'm not a Beck fan so I may be wrong about this but isn't this album just Beck music with all the interesting bits removed? 3.07
+: Paper Tiger, Lonesome Tears, Lost Cause, It's All in Your Mind, Round the Bend, Sunday Sun, Little One, Side of the Road +-: The Golden Age, Guess I'm Doing Fine, End of the Day, Already Dead 6,1/10
It’s fine sad beck is sad
Sad Beck
Guero was an interesting record for sure. It appeared early on enough for me that I hadn’t really figured out my style yet, and those old reviews aren’t very pretty. I actually remember more of where I was when I first heard the record than the record itself. It entertained me for 50 minutes of a very long and boring car ride to a very boring place. But I didn’t come out of it thinking I needed to hear more Beck any time soon. It’s been nearly a year, so I guess I got what I wanted. Beck has had a slightly quirky sense of songwriting from the beginning of his career. But there have been times, such as with this particular album, where he chose to abandon that aspect of himself for something more serious. I respect him as a musician. Because he is capable of switching things around so often and still sounding competent at the very least. This album sees him under the lens of alt-country and folk. It’s like he’s trying to be Wilco. Or Neutral Milk Hotel. Or Radiohead. Or more like all of them at once. Except the latter most of those could really go both ways. If someone told me Thom Yorke and company used this record as inspiration for A Moon Shaped Pool, I’d probably believe them. Why I say it’s all of those at once is because almost all of these folk songs are accompanied by some form of synth or string arrangement. Which are intended to add some level of emotion and intensity to the music. And when they successfully do so, they are quite evocative. But when they don’t, it’s like “Ehh, okay, cool I guess”. Where I began to take issue is the structuring of the songs themselves. Every track follows what feels like a very uniform, cut and dry pattern. They all sound the same, and most don’t get interesting until around the end. And some of them are too long to justify listening to the whole thing to get to the good parts. I don’t hate any one song, but I also don’t know I need 50 minutes of this album. It’s supposedly about a break up. So I don’t know, maybe if I’m going through a particularly rough split later on in life, I’ll give this a second shot and gain a new found appreciation for it. Rating: 5/10
Fine album, probably needs a relisten. I found it a bit forgettable at times but it had nice moments.
Is it possible that Beck is both underrated and overrated at the same time?
Of all the albums by Beck to make this list, this is the one? It's fine and represents his lyrics well enough, but this is no Odelay. 3/5
Relaxing sound
I couldn't tell you the name of a single song on this album, but I would describe the sound as lo-fi country? Honestly good work music, I enjoyed it and even threw it back on for the ride home. Acoustic albums are always a nice change of pace to all the synthesized stuff that's more popular. Best song: Idk it's all the same in my head Worst song: Lonesome Tears kept ringing in the left side every 4th beat and was annoying as hell 3/5 decent, would consider throwing it on when I need some background noise
Good, chill, but too slow for me
I remember this album being lauded when it came out, and I always meant to listen to it. I can't believe it took me 22 years to finally do so. I prefer Beck's more fun and upbeat stuff (e.g. Midnite Vultures) but I can see why this resonated with critics and listeners alike. I think I'd have to listen to it a few more times to fully appreciate it. This was a bit hard for me to fully get into considering I haven't experienced a breakup in 15+ years, but I did like "Little One" a lot.
I was surprised how funky it was, rather enjoyable.
Missed opportunity to title it Mellow Gloom. I like "Lost Cause" every time I hear it on the radio but an entire album like this is a bit much for me most days. I liked the subtly unconventional songwriting and his voice has more technique and range than I expected, but I'm still not fully recovered from overplaying "Loser" at the record store where I worked when it came out almost 30 years ago (yeesh!).
An interesting choice of albums to represent Beck, but certainly not the one I'd have probably chosen for him ("Odelay" would be the most obvious, although I also really enjoyed his much later "Morning phase"). I always enjoy listening to Beck, and this album has the distinction of being surprisingly cohesive, style- and soundwise, and also being pretty somber. There are a few really nice tracks--"Golden age", "Lost cause" (with a hypnotic video), and "It's all in your mind" (in part because it predates his melancholy turn)--but I'll admit it's hard to distinguish most of them from each other, and I doubt I'd listen to this album again. Even the review/summary of the album in the 2005 "1001 Albums" book seems to be at best lukewarm to Beck's "left turn" to emo-ballads...
I hadn't listened to this in 20 years. It sounds like sad, pretentious past me. Nothing here really stood out, I don't know that I'm picking this one back up.
Very calm music. Sounded a lot like a a Nick Drake album at times. Very different from the other Beck album I got way back when.
The world wasn't ready for Sad Beck.r
beck is sad :(
Nothing special
Sad sad Beck. A bit boring with it being so slow and each song sounding very similar. 4/10
I’ll be honest, it’s hard to listen to Beck because I believe that he puts subliminal Scientology messages in his songs. At the same time, I have always wanted to like Beck. Let’s see… Well, it’s mostly one tone throughout the album. Basically a slow burn. It’s Beck. Worlds jumbled together to make a sort of poetic verse collection. Honestly, Lost Cause is a generational song and would result in me buying the album if I had to do that anymore. Not great but not a terrible album. Choice Cut: Lost Cause
It is cool how much beck can do. I prefer the James Brown imitations, and the musical collages though. While competent the market on acoustic guitars and heartbreak is long saturated.
Geez more Beck. This is probably my favourite of his so far. Do I think he needs this many here, fuck no. But hey this is a pleasantly sad listen, some emotional tracks. Too long and follows a similar format all throughout tho. Fav songs: - The Golden Age - Lonesome Tears - Lost Cause
My second Beck album in two days! Let's go The golden age - really liked this. Nice and calm and a good song to walk to at night Paper tiger - don't like the vocal quality here, but that's okay. Like the strings. Really like the ending Guess I'm doing fine - nice intro. Giving me early counting crows. Enjoying this. Moody and good Lonesome tears - Beck's a sad boy isn't he. Lost cause - instinctively went to skip this. Idk why. Not bad now I'm listening to it. A bit badly drawn boy, but not as upbeat. Very sad walking in the rain end of relationship song End of the day - listening to this album in two parts so this will be my last half before I stop. Also sad. I'm sensing a theme. All in your mind - I like this. Melancholy. I like the strings a lot. That was good Round the bend - promising intro. Not mad keen on the vocals. Strings are lovely. Feels a tiny bit Bond Already dead - this is fine. Feel like I've heard it in 100 student films Sunday sun - is that a sitar? Little one - not feeling this Side of the road - I just don't think I like his singing voice. The original off key indie sad boy. I don't hate this song actually. I imagine it would be good for a late night drive. That song felt like just the right length, and some others I was willing to be over. Not a bad album at all! Enjoyed a lot of parts of it. Quite likely to listen to some of these songs again
Sad Beck makes a sad album. Overall, not bad, just hard to listen to if you aren't in a sad mood. Very different from what you generally expect from a Beck album. Good on him for branching out, just not something I will likely seek out.
Decent. I listened to this album a fair amount back when it was released. I liked it more back then than I do now.
Did not listen
yeah it was fine, very sleepy though
blah 57/100
I love Beck and feel like he’s done so many great albums. This one feels like I need to be in the mood for a slower record, but I enjoy his styling and calming voice.
Kinda boring
Amo como comienza, muy hogareño y cálido. Es la primera vez que lo escucho y no me decepciona, lo escucharía casualmente.
Good songwriting, but I thought the album was a bit slow.
It is too sad too much too sad so sad
Solid, but not remarkable.
Sad Beck
mengisch hani scho s gfühl, musigkritiker:inne entscheidet sich mal, dass sie en artist gern hend und denn muss de wichtig sii. nomal es beck album?? "er tönt so wies albumcover usgseht" -drey und es isch #true lonesome tears isch jz s erste lied wo mi chli meh nimmt aber au das iscb chli sehr lang beck's ice, es muss nöd jedes lied 5 min gah ALLES ISCH LANGSAM UND LANGWILIG de schluss vo end of the day kinda cute round the benf het mich chli anen modernere nick drake erinneret vode melodie, cool ja jz geg de schluss wirds besser, sunday sun isch na cool aber bruder das zieht sich jaa de schluss hetmer besser gfalle, lang ischs uf 2-kurs gsi aber mal luege wieni mi morn fühle
I thought this started off strong but quickly slipped into depression. Would not listen again.
This album is a moody ride. The lyrics are raw and heartfelt. Each track flows into the next. It’s a bit slow at times, but I think that's its charm. Great for a rainy day. Not for everyone, but worth a listen.
Close to being a 4 star… a nice mix between nirvana and radiohead
I was expecting weird (possibly in a good way), which this wasn't. It was nice. The vibe doesn't change a lot though. I feel that holds it back.
2.5
Floaty, pleasant enough music to lay around and be stoned to. Nothing really stands out -- it's almost like Beck decided to do his own version of a Brian Eno album. Wonderful soundscapes and the like, but nothing overly essential here.
Relaxed pop with a broken voice. It's easy to listen to at least.
Knowing a bit of Beck, heard of this album. Don't know if I know anything off of it. I do know his style of music is very eclectic. First couple tracks in it is very mellow, slow. Not the indie rock/experimental pop I was expecting.
That was alright, not that memorable though
3.7 . Prefer full band Beck
It was good, but I think it got a little monotonous. None of the songs were bad. But it would have been improved if there was a little more energy here or there
This one was really tricky for me to rate. It was such a sad and heavy album and I didn't get a chance to listen to it with as much dedication or focus as I'd like to (plus we were moving houses when this album came up, so my music-listening headspace was all over the place). I can see this album being a 4 for me with more steeping time and under the right circumstances, but for right now it's a 3.
Definitely has some real beautiful moments and maybe I'd rate it differently on a different day. Today, however, the day it was assigned, I'm applying for jobs. This is not good job applying music.
This one has a chance to grow on me. It's a bit of a downer and I prefer Beck's more upbeat material. Still, it's a well made, well crafted album and there's no denying Beck's talent. I do think I have to be in the right mood to hear it but I'll give it another go in the future.
Lonesome tears.....whoah man. Good shit. Was literally talking to Mike yesterday about how I was getting into Beck, but I hadn't heard any of the songs on this album. Splendid. I wish there was a liiiittle more range and variety in his songs, but still very good.
Pretty good compositions on this album, but overall it comes off as a bit of a snooze-fest. Probably an album I would enjoy on subsequent playthroughs though, so I'll be listening again some time in the future.
Not bad i, nice surpise
Very nice album - Quiet and beautiful
Bit dreary.
Expected sad and poignant but this mostly felt plodding & sleepy. Besides 'Lost Cause,' very little else stood out. Definitely prefer when Beck is channelling Prince & James Brown over Elliot Smith.
It's pretty good collection of melancholic music. I'm sure if I felt the same way he did making it I'd be more engaged, but since I don't and didn't, it's a fine enough listen. Enough so that I didn't mind how it kept fading in and out of my attention. I'unno.
It's Beck. Which means most often quality, but also a bit of the same.
Heavy & sad
Never been a big fan of Beck to be honest. I'd say this album is just alright. The sad acoustic with ethereal synths sort of feels like it lasts forever though.
3.5 Not sure I have consciously heard a single Beck song other than Loser. Nice, but a little sad and samey. It faded into the background a bit too easily. Saved a few tracks for revisiting to see if they grow on me.
Not my favorite Beck record, but really nice. Somber, thoughtful and intentional. 3.5/5
Never got into this one. I like the Melody Nelson inspired song.
Dreamy, wavy and hypnotic. The music is very somber and smoothing, and Beck’s voice only adds to that. This is a really easy listen and quite calming. Really dig this one.
Paper Tiger - Orchester Einlage
Not what I expected at all, but not a bad album. Very chill.
Sea Change delves into the depths of Beck's psyche during a tumultuous breakup, offering a poignant and bleakly introspective journey. The album is characterised by its melancholic tone, reflecting the emotional turmoil experienced during this period of his life. While the melodies are undeniably beautiful, there are moments where the raw emotion makes for a challenging listen. However, this difficulty adds to the album's authenticity, capturing the rawness of heartbreak with haunting clarity. Beck's vulnerability shines through in every track, drawing listeners into his world of pain and reflection. Despite its sombre atmosphere, there's a haunting beauty to the music that lingers long after the final notes fade away. NUMBER OF BANGERS - 4 STAND OUT TRACK - Lost Cause
I liked the album but it was very much the same. Good sounds good production but wasn’t special
Lost cause is the only song I've heard before - and several times at that. The singing is hypnotic and croony but not melodic in nature. A few tracks stand out with beautiful swells but they do seem to blend into each other. Overall an average album - probably won't listen again
Definitely a change from the usually experimental music of Beck. It was slow, melodic, and melancholy. Overall it wasn't bad, it didn't really have any stand out memorable tracks.
The Golden Age //
Herzschmerz, Traurigkeit und Melancholie vereinen sich in diesem Album. Eine angenehme beinahe langweilige Stimme prägen das Album. Nach einer Melancholie kommt die nächste, so dass die Depression des Albums eher nervt, als Spaß macht bzw. zum wiederhören inspiriert. Ganz ok sind “Guess I’m Doing Fine” & “Lost Cause“.
I liked this better than the last Beck album that was generated, it’s not terrible just too dreary for me. Yawn
Surprised I'd never heard them, having came out on 2001
i actually didnt hate this nearly as much as my typical beck hatred. it was mostly vibey and ignorable (a positive) 2.5
Pretty chill album
Prefer this one to Odelay, 3 stars
Not my favorite Beck- but still Beck.
I first heard of Beck when he beat Beyonce for Album of the Year a while back and Kanye had something to say about that. The album started off pretty strong, but after Lost Cause I was kind of bored. High 3.
Felt pretty indifferent towards this 6/10
Idk, wasn’t listening super closely to the lyrics so I feel like I’m not a great judge of this one. In general, though, I dig concept albums, and I feel like this was well executed if not particularly groundbreaking. Cover art is a little goofy. 6.5/10 Was rushed writing yesterday’s review, but I wanted to add that in addition to really enjoying the main album, I actually also liked the outro. Lucas said he didn’t like it which is definitely fair, it’s pretty monotonous from a melodic/harmonic/rhythmic development perspective, but it was cool and kinda charming to hear all the people that influenced his style and the album. I think Lupe acknowledging them in that way scratched some sort of midwestern politeness itch for me.
6/10 - Most of the songs flowed together and it made them sound the same. It was quite mellow which was decent from studying however, it was not the most enjoyable. A few songs stood out as better but overall it was mid.
I enjoyed this. Felt longer than 52 minutes because a lot of the songs sounded the exact same, but still pretty good 7/10
From what i can tell, Sea Change was mostly influenced by the time Beck broke up with his longtime girlfriend, And you can tell he is not taking it well in this album because god it sounds so sad. The music is very melancholic and the lyrics are as well. That stuff is what makes the album pretty good. It is relaxing and melancholic at the same time which i really like about it. This is a good album if you don't mind crying a bit throughout. Best Song: Lonesome Tears Worst Song: Paper Tiger
sad beck is ok beck, prefer happy beck
Maudlin
Twangy, country feel. Atypical Beck
Ganske deprimerende
Okay so this may be one of the most INTERESTING albums we have heard thus far- which makes sense, given that all we listen to is oldies rock 80% of the time and this is more modern.. Bro this album is literally a soundtrack of itself. I can portray movie scenes going along with each of these songs- I have no other way of describing it other than pure "Art" Lonesome Tears is a prime example of this. Beck makes me feel a plethora of emotions within these songs, it's a rollercoaster for sure- I ride that I thoroughly enjoy. Not often do you get hit with songs that make you feel sad and calm at the same time, and actually hit- but here we are. You know we get all of these albums that just feel planted into the scene for money, but this really hits home. You can feel the every emotion the artist feels here and it just feels so genuine. It's very refreshing. This is definitely an album of healing, and the haunting lyrics and instruments paint that picture very well. This album has aged gracefully. Never before had I heard a beck album, but I will be returning. I saved most of these songs! Solid 8.5/10
3.5 Damn, I didn’t know Beck had this in him! I thought all this dude wrote was alternative, experimental, borderline hip-hop stuff with nonsense lyrics, but I guess all it took for him to create what’s probably the most genuine and cohesive album of his career was a nasty breakup (isn’t that what it takes us all sometimes?) For the first time, I feel like I’m actually hearing Beck instead of some artsy-fartsy wall he puts up, and it’s absolutely beautiful and introspective - I finally understand why people admire this guy’s artistry. So that to say, I nearly gave this a 4, but the more I listened to it, the more I couldn’t help but feel that it’s a bit long and same-y, especially in the back half - I definitely think you could cut two or three songs there without losing much. The front half is crazy strong though, with the opening track The Golden Age being the highlight of this album for me - it far and away strikes the best balance of melancholy and beauty of anything here. Honestly, as of this writing, I would say it’s probably the best Beck song that I’ve heard, and I found myself just wanting to go back and give that song a re-listen the deeper I got into the album. Not that it ever gets bad by any means, but somewhere after Lost Cause it does start to devolve into more of the same kind of stuff you’ve already heard but not nearly as remarkable, and at a certain point I found myself ready for this to start wrapping up. Probably the best album of the guy’s career, and I can see why it was acclaimed, I just think it could have been tightened up a bit. Definitely could see this being a worthwhile addition to my sadboi collection of records though.
I enjoyed this mellow version of Beck for sure, very beautiful album and very somber. However, the Odelay album is one of my favorites and this does not live up to it at all. Overall a nice listen but nothing I would go back to.
Very middle of the road, I don't really have a solid opinion on Beck. Everything he puts out is good but doesn't particularly stand out to me
Ok
Classic Beck, real melancholy
Probably don’t appreciate this as much as I should. I see this as very mediocre from Beck, he should be more innovative and experimental. Just not my cup of tea
When I first heard this, I thought “it’s a mood”. I still think that. Not my favorite, I need to want a ‘lazy Sunday’ vibe to make this worthwhile.
Beck has such talent...unfortunately this album was just a little too sleepy from start to finish for me. Best Track: Already Dead
3/5
okey, nisam previse dozivila
Injeschlafene Föös
It was good but not a Beck favorite of mine
I see the appeal. It's a very elegant and peaceful piece of work. It's a little soft for my tastes but I do think it is well put together.
6/10 It is a pleasant listen with a couple of stand-out tracks. 3-18-2024
THIS is how I like my folk music. Actual singing ability, and much-less-to-no harmonica. "Lonesome Tears" was definitely a highlight of the album for me. The forlorn folk song is carried by some soaring, very haunting orchestrals that literally left goosebumps. In general, I think the folk music found here is elevated by the chamber pop aspect, and they go nicely together. There is a lot of variety found here, which keeps things fresh and unique -- everything bleeding together is often one of my complaints about music in folk and folk-adjacent spaces. Beck is definitely a multi-faceted artist, based not only on what I know about him but also just the differences between this album and another on this project, "Odelay". I appreciate that diversity in an artist!
This is so different from everything else I know by Beck, and it's cool to hear his breadth. It strikes up a very sleepy, introspective mood, and doesn't really drift from that. If that's where you're head is when you listen, I can see the appeal, but it doesn't really land for me now as being particularly memorable.
I like the signature sound of this album: really slowed-down with various distortions. It takes a lot of various inspirations (from singer-songwriter/folk-rock and country to whatever genre Dire Straits is) and adds an alternative spin to them. The movie score-style strings in "Paper Tiger" are also cool. But it does get a bit boring when the whole album consists of really chill songs with melancholy lyrics.
me gusta para un momento muy relajado (es muy lento)
I introduced Beck to my daughter a few weeks ago as “The King of Alt-Wierd”. He was the first and only artist to perfectly blend country, pop, rock, psychedelia, and whatever else he was listening. Odelay and Guerro are mind blowing! This album is not. It’s not that it’s a bad album: it’s a highly personal ode to a series of changes in his life. It’s well written. It’s masterfully performed. Songs like Paper Tiger and Around the Bend are soft and reflective. For me, it sounds too much like mid-00 Wilco, which I really liked and given the choice would probably choose first. This is a good headphones and bottle of red wine after a shitty week album, but outside of that not an everyday celebration.
Indie chill breakup album. Not as good as Bon Iver. Few good tracks like Golden Age and Lost Cause. Feels a little too long. Solid outing but I’m not pulling this one out too often.
Good tunes weak vocals
I was excited to listen to beck. Nice album
it beck
Not a bad album but didn't really click with me.
Chill AF
good
Sounded like a mid U2 cover band. Like It isn’t heinous but it’s fine. Middle of the road af
7.2/10
Cool style with good music. The album is redundant, all the songs sound the same and it gets old after a while. But still really good. 5/10
it's good it kinda sounds like something from the 70s. reminds me a little of david bowie i like the really dreamy vocals and the guitar and it just sounds like...hazey and stuff lol. surprisingly good!! i just wouldve liked a bit MORE, it felt boring at some parts (this is from the pov of a non music nerd, so)
interesting...
Lovely. Beck fella has talent
Good ambiance but nothing too stand out.
I didn't expect this show competitive Rock from Beck. I guess I've only heard the hits
I’m not really a big fan. This is my second album from Beck on this list. I would say it’s better than the shaggy dog album. Overall not too bad I might listen again. 3/5
Not bad. Not gonna make it onto my playlist but nice enough.
A signature languid Beck album - Beck does everything done in this album better in his subsequent album Morning Phase. I give this 3.5 and round down to 3 given Morning Phase would be a solid 4.
Did you ever notice how Beck and Michael Cera look alike? I like it when Beck is in a better headspace. I wouldn't consider this album his best work, but I like him already so it was interesting to hear something unknown. Music Tone: Spacey, distant, yearning, depressed, self-destructive, introspective Played While: rainy day, making brownies, meal planning Musical Influences: David Bowie, Beatles, Nick Drake
Moments of honesty and joy but a bit one-note for me - there is something about Beck's voice I just can't warm to!
Underwhelming. Pretty good, but forgettable. 6.5/10 Top 3: 1. Guess I’m Doing Fine 2. The Golden Age 3. End Of The Day
I've never really paid any attention to Beck so this is new to me. I was half expecting to hate this album, but I did not! Paper Tiger almost made me bail because it started by throwing some Lou Reed vibes (not really my bag) but it turned out to be maybe my favorite track on the whole record. My only knock is that by the halfway mark I really wasn't sure how many different tracks I had heard primarily because they're pretty repetitive. I'll give it 3.5 stars for being a pleasant listen but I'm rounding down to 3 because its just too long. I don't think we needed 52 minutes of what essentially sounds like the same idea again and again.
Solid album from Beck. Very different from his others that came before. You can tell he was going through some shit on this album as it is very palpable. Don't listen to this album if you're feeling good as it is likely a definite mood changer.
Have to say, the cover makes him look like a wannabee Bowie Aladdin Sane. Decent Music. Never was much of a Beck enthusiast, but I like this alright... I'd give it 3.5, but only 3 because I have no Halves
I really like Beck but don’t love this album.
Pretty good, but kind of boring. I found myself not very interested about 3/4 of the way through.
Not a Beck offering I was familiar with. Quite mellow.
Best country album of 2002. 3-5-1
Beautiful, nice songs, fantastic recording and production...but pretty slow and mellow and didn't speak to me. Worth another listen though.
good
Overall, good album but JUST good. Kinda forgettable
It was okay. Didn’t listen to it all.
Nice and chill album to listen to. Nothing too over the top for me, but solid
I found this record to be boring. Nothing that I heard on it stood out to me. The production is pretty great, but I feel like that's about for me.
The production on this album is great, and I see why it's on the list. However, songs blend together too much/sound too similar for me to give 5 stars. 4/5
some bangers some very meh
I was a little bored
Solid album by Beck. Enjoyed his laid back somewhat “country” sounding groove. Will add this to my chill rotation.
I like beck
he wants to be radiohead sooo bad
Opening with such a sad song, the headphones were such a help to the different sounds in my ears. Definitely loved this, especially the last lyric, excepted more of badass songs, but this is much better. He's quite depressed after that breakup, and now me too. He apparently has an addiction, made a Bowie reference, would listen to this 100% when I'm feeling rock-sad. 9 YEAR OLD RELATIONSHIP, not surprised this is sooo melancholic. In the third song his senses are dulled because of the breakup(metaphorically obvi). And he's been missing opportunities because of the relationship, but I guess he's still young and has time to recover at least. Album has the same vibe, I suppose, quite depressing to sum it up. 4th song has a different chorus apparently, can't wait to hear it. Started with a violin, great. He was raised in a cult and is Searching for some kind of ruin to save himself from the sadness as I got it. Also the chorus had the slight change in the use of the violins, but still one of the best one I've heard from him, because its progressive. Last part is fully instrumental, which is, for me, satisfying. it has a Beatles like ending, weird and unexpectedly iykyk. 5th one is apparently the catchiest(can't agree). It sure is "fun" but I've listened to better ones. He has some kind of ironic comments about the breakup and it low key makes the song less depressing but also more like that so idk. He's had breakups before but this one really hurt him and he's just stuck, even if he says he's over it, he's not, but he knows he has power to move on(?) I guesss. The guitar part remembers me of devil wears Prada theme song. He just wanted to be her good friend, well he's through it now(I hope). It was a short and literal meaning song, nothing catchy or classically soo not as special as the next one(I'm getting spooky vibes already) Apparently 8th song has a nick drake vibe(dunno about him yet). His voice has changed, warmer and more seductive as I've read, agreed. He's almost ready to move on, also he makes an observation about ppl being cruel to eachother. 7th song was quite short compared to this 5 minute songs actually. Nvm 9th one is shorter. I guess he moved on(not fully) because "already dead to me now" suggests that, otherwise the song was not a special as the other ones, made me feel more bored than sad. 10th song is quite happier, because of the last mentioned lyrics I suppose. I mean this one is a special one, but not amusing, but the little piano track is. Actually this song turned out to be one of the best for me, it really says indie rock in this one. 11th song's chorus is quite rocky, loved that, other than that the bridge was a perfect continuation of the chorus, the verses weren't as much of a "wow" to me. I must say his voice is very satisfying and soothing to listen to, almost makes me sleep, while being low-key seductive as I've already said.
Dollar General Radiohead ass album.
Very melancholic, chill, in some parts sad and a slow album. It drags on a bit here and there, but overall it is a good album, though not his best.
Totally appreciate Beck’s talent and diversity.
Will revisit. Very chill.
good album Need to listen It more i liked a lot the First part, too sad for me maybe but nice sound 3 / 5
I get it, it has a sound.
Not his best
Die Stimme erinnert mich an Eels. Insgesamt ganz nette Lala …
This was alright, sad Beck isn't what I was expected. Reminded me a bit of the more recent Failure records, which just made me wish I was listening to Failure.
Levyn keskivaiheilla, mieleenpainuvimman Lost causen ympärillä, on hyvä vahva tunnelma ja parhaat biisit. Alku ja etenkin loppu menevät akustisen kitaran ja hönkäilyn fiilistelyksi. Laulussa ja sanoituksissa on grungea, jota jäin kaipaamaan lisää.
Beck is one of those artists who fly under radar for me. He has some truly great music that seems to be mostly underrated. He's so creative and unique. First time listening to this album from front to back, it was pretty solid while being melancholy and overall depressing, which is kind of my jam if I'm being honest. I should listen to Beck more often. Lost Cause is my favorite track.
Mid
C'Est bon, Beck a beaucoup de talent mais un peu sombre pour moi. 3.25
Bra album Melankoliska vibbisar
It's a beatifull and morose album. The production is, as you'd expect, top notch. I like it, I don't love it, but I like it.
Really mellow
Unoriginal
I didn't have a single opinion about the album as I listened to it
Interesting album, would revisit again.
It was good, just not very memorable.
Decent enough without being spectacular
Beck: The sadsack album
This was an easy listen. I was familiar with Beck although I didn’t listen to the album before. I enjoyed it but not a lot
A bit flat
There was a time when I thought this album was like the ultimate brilliance in melancholy. I am at a very different point in my life now.
I just want Beck to feel better when I listen to this album
I wasn't ready for quiet-and-earnest-Beck when this came out, but I like it more now. Great production, especially love the steel guitar.
Not my favorite Beck. By far. 2.5
Nice music to work/study to, but not something I would listen to when I just want to listen music
i don’t like beck!
What the Beck is up with this huh? Idk what it is but Beck just ain’t my jam, it’s good and some of these songs are especiallly lovely like Guess I’m doing Fine but there’s something about his stuff that doesn’t pull me. Good stuff though mr beck it sounds nice for sure
I have specific memories of this album with a specific ex. It sounds like Beck did, too. Melancholy isn’t my favourite Beck flavour but he does it really well.
Thrown by this Beck. What drug gets a musician this mellow, yet still able to sing and strum? (hang on, I'm thinking of something - ah yes, ah, maybe I finally understand = Fairport Convention is what frustrated British people listen to when they have taken a weeks worth of hash, muscle relaxants and codeine at once. (when putting off that trimming of the thatched roof ). And this would go well next to that section called "slightly turgid" or "chill-out for over 70s" sections music in an LP collection. Masterfully slo' mo'. Instead of Sea Change, he could just have been less euphemistic and just called it "retirement" :+|
I saw Beck at the Metro in Sydney in 1994. A friend had seen the tour a few days earlier in Canberra and said I _had_ to go, to see the support act; the Jon Spencer Blues Explosion. So I went, and JSBX were incredible, as advertised. But I was surprised by Beck. I had been expecting a guy out of his depth, with a guitar and backing tapes to half-arse his recent hit single and some stuff that sounded like that. But he trotted out on stage with a tight and surprisingly muscular band, and they bashed out an energetic and raucous set of rock and roll. I was sold. I bought a few of his records over the years. But what the hell is this? Jesus, was Beck sprinkling crushed up mogadon tablets on his cornflakes ? It's very pretty, nice melodies, soaring string arrangements and all, but the melancholy is all-pervading and totally enervating. He is on record as having always wanted to make a "depressing album" like Joni Mitchell or Leonard Cohen (or Dylan or Nick Drake etc etc. BTW, Round The Bend is more than indebted to Nick Drake's River Man. Dude should pay royalties on that). I disagree with the critical shorthand that "sad divorce album = masterpiece". This is passable in the genre, but no masterpiece. The energy, humour, and creative freshness that I enjoy in Beck at his best is all missing from this album. He usually has a million ideas, quickly thrown on tape, which didn't always stick, but were at least funny and fresh and exciting. Good tunes, well recorded and played, but not Beck playing to his strengths.
I love this mans music, however not one of his best! Didn't have the otherworldlyness of mutations or the downright strangness of midnight vultures. Still was enjoyable just not usual genius standard, lacked ness.
Much as I like Beck, I think I prefer happier Beck. An hour of sad Beck doesn't stack up well against Odelay.
Melancholy melodies for middle-aged masses. I too prefer a happier Beck.
Good album. Reminds me of driving delivery for steak out and listening to this album probably 50+ times. But honestly, still just a 3 at this point for for me. 3.49/5
It was good, but much more chill than I expected. It's no Odelay.
Good for a rainy day
Both noodley and heavily produced. Probably quite nice but didn't grab me strongly.
Completely forgettable,disappointed as I like beck but this album was kind of a bore with not a song I can remember.Very boring slow acoustic ambient stuff.
cool and cinematic at times but pretty bland at other times
Didn’t find it too engaging
Melkein nelonen!
Blah
Some parts sound like Nick Drake
Started off alright not my normal day to day choice. However not something to listen to during a snow storm. 2.5/5
very sad, very depressing, very beck
J'ai trouvé que ça s'écoutait bien, j'ai clairement mieux aimé que Odelay. Je ne m'attendais pas du tout à ce style beaucoup plus doux et acoustique, mais c'est très bien exécuté. J'ai l'impression que c'est le genre d'album qui pourrait plus me plaire à l'écouter. Par contre, j'ai trouvé que par moment ça sonnait beaucoup trop comme du Nick Drake. 7/10
Not my fave Beck album but I appreciate it
Beck does a good job of playing sad and mellow. Reminds me a bit of Leonard Cohen or some of the other folksy artists of the 70's. Lyrics aren't as excellent, but still good. And so, is this album on the 1,001 list because it represents a departure from Beck's normal style? I don't know, that feels like a reach. I didn't mind it, and it gave me a greater appreciation for Beck's skills (even though I respected him already). But it's an average album at best.
Cool instrumentals but didn’t hit
A departure from his earlier 2 albums, having a more organic, conventional sound with played instruments and less sonic experimentation (although not fully gone). The Golden Age gets a mention, but it doesn't really stand out as a whole. May grow to like with further listening.
twas aigh
soft
lonesome tears goede chord prog
3,5. Paper Tiger is a 5.
6.5/10 Sad, slow, consistent Higlights: Paper Tiger
Pretty good improved as it went on
Sorry Beck. It was too nice outside to wallow. Saving it for a rainy day.
1. The Golden Age - i don't mind the lyrics in this one and the sound is ok. 2. Paper Tiger - i like the sound of this one, it's a little darker sounding to me, almost grungy. 3. Guess I’m Doing Fine - this one is ok, not my favourite. 4. Lonesome Tears - I really like the sound of this one, and the lyrics are good 5. Lost Cause - this one was a little boring. 6. End of the Day - ditto 7. It’s All in Your Mind - interesting lyrics. 8. Round the Bend - a little boring too. 9. Already Dead - i like the music in this one. 10. Sunday Sun - didn't like the sound of this one. 11. Little One - i really like the sound of this one, it's pretty upbeat. 12. Side of the Road - kinda sounded similar to the others I didn't mind the album, acoustic songs aren't my favourite unless I really love the lyrics which they did not connect for me. His vocal tones kinda remind me of grunge a bit
Not what I was expecting. The songs started blending together after a bit, all with similar tempos and vibes. 3/5