new GbV - Cool Planet

Ok, got the new album. Quickie review is that for those of you who got off the Pollard wagon a while back, this is NOT the album to jump back on. It's not terrible, but it is pretty tuneless by GbV standards. And it features the weirdest Tobin Sprout songs of all time. "All American Boy" borrows both it's melodic and vocal styling from Mott's "All The Young Dudes". Hearing Tobin channeling his inner Ian Hunter was... well, interesting.

Anyway, Cool Planet is definitely the weakest of the post-reunion albums. Not the least interesting per se, but Bob brought a weak stash to the studio. His best tune doesn't come until nearly the end with "Males of Wormwood".

In defense of GbV, this ends a pretty remarkable run of quality output IMO.

Tom,

Thanks for the review, even if it sounds like a disappointing album. Man, these come so rapid fire I didn't even know there was one coming out this week and I generally pay attention! So disappointed they are not coming to Boston on their current tour....

Nose

I gotta say that last year's passel of mediocre albums (all of which I bought) had me wondering whether I had it in me to buy the next one. Then, Pollard's asshole moves with that drummer trying to sell his kit on eBay pretty much put me off them for good. I don't anticipate buying another album, unless I hear from one of you that it's really goddamn good and then I'll think about it. They are coming through here on their tour and, even though I enjoyed the shit out of it the two times I saw 'em, I will not be going to this show.

Been nice knowing ya, Bob.