FILE UNDER: You In Reverse? Or Me squared?
CORPORATE LINE: One of the most critically acclaimed of Modern Rock bands, Built To Spill returns with its long-awaited album, the first in five years. Putting aside extensive overdubs and an atmosphere sweep, You in Reverse captures the organic, loose, impromptu feel of the band’s jams. Led by influential alt-rock hero Doug Martsch and sprouting new influences and a fresh feel, Built To Spill drives ahead with You in Reverse.
THE GOOD:
“Conventional Wisdom” – The rare track on You In Reverse that sparks any memory of Built To Spill’s past.
THE AVERAGE:
“Liar” – There are significant traces of something familiar. Maybe it’s because Martsch’s voice sounds eerily familiar to Michael Stipe. There is a nice melody—and yet nothing jumps out.
“Goin’ Against Your Mind” – It’s pretty and interesting. But somewhere the song becomes far to drawn out when it should have been harnessed and massaged into something more potent.
THE BAD:
Nothing.
FRANKLY: You either love Built To Spill or you hate them. Keep It Like A Secret was different—it could appeal to a larger audience. Yes, there were wayward moments however it wasn’t a meandering mess either. Call me dumb. Call me a non-misfit. Throw whatever nerdy slam you can—You In Reverse is not evolution or the reverse. Built To Spill have released an album that says “we are too smart for you so get it or don’t.” Well I don’t get it. Maybe you want to spend your money and sort it out. Good luck to you. Drop me a line when you’ve figured the mystery out.
+ Rae Gun
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