Farewell to Juliet's reputation as a Choir clone is not helped by their reverent remake of "Chase the Kangaroo," but that connection seems to suit this band just fine. The Choir-esque sounds aside, the real question is: is there room for another intelligent, artsy modern rock band with a familiar sound? Farewell to Juliet makes a powerful case.
Despite their obvious veneration for their favorite band, there is enough other stuff happening in their music--for instance the Rush-like qualities of "Justice"--to set them apart, making them no mere imitators.
Not all of these songs are on equal footing, and some seem a bit overlong. Had a wee bit of fat been trimmed, this would have been an even stronger album. The highlights here are worthy enough to sustain the album, however, and special recognition goes out to songs like the moody rock of "Holiday on Ice" and "Bittersweet," rockers likeÊ "Justice" and "Thermostat," and modern hymns like "Fear the Lord," a truly wonderful worship experience.
It should not be implied that the other songs are mere filler--far from it.Ê They are merely less immediately and subjectively noteworthy. With plenty of respectable songs, this is a slightly uneven but overall admirable collection. Grace and Dire Circumstances is also chock-full of beautiful arrangements and passionately played songs. Jeff Elbel's varied guitar work is especially exemplary. The lyrics range from insightful to worshipful and poetic to pure fun. The production is laudable. Even the artwork and packaging is top notch.
Farewell to Juliet may not have reinvented modern rock, but they are carving their own niche. Of the more obscure indie bands out there, they are clearly one of the most qualified for full-time status due to the quality of both their songs and musical execution. The sum of these parts is atmospheric and arresting, charming and catchy, memorable, and most of all, definitely worth your time and attention. Forget farewell. Why not say hello.
Contact information:
Marathon Records (310) 355-0533
PO Box 1222
El Segundo, CA 90245-6222
Email: SunnyRoses@aol.com
Review by Steven Stuart Baldwin (9/15/98)
