Another simple classic in the ongoing collection

If you like the CTD, I can't see how you would not like this latest cd. Every one of their previous cd's is unique in its own right, and this one is no different. I can ALWAYS find a CTD cd to fit a particular mood I am in. This latest is very dark and easy to listen to. In fact, this one has prompted me to cycle through all their previous a number of times. It reminds me of how much I like Brad's voice and how much I love this band. More to the qualities of this CD: Dark, slow, sad,

depressing. I LOVE IT! I will always be a CTD fan and hope that they continue to produce unique music for a very long time.

Best album of the year? Perhaps : )

When I first heard that the Crash Test Dummies were putting out another cd, I felt concerned. The past few albums, those following God Shuffled His Feet, were a real let down to me because the band tried to be something that they aren't, POP. Songs of the Unforgiven is by no means a return to old-style Crash Test Dummies, but rather a logical step in the progression of a maturing band of highly competent musicians and artists. On Songs of the Unforgiven, Brad Roberts uses every breath to convey deep meaningful lyrics to the listener. In support is the band performing accompaniment to what is essentially a story, as told by the singer. Aside from the fantastic lyrics and vocal harmonies, the album gains its strength from its simplicity. A recurring melody, soft/short interludes, and emotionally charged and felt singing make this a candidate for best album of the year. This album recalls the old method of telling a story through song and accomplishes the task gracefully, with class, and above all simply. Thank you to this band for putting forth music that inspires me to keep listening and searching for other great albums.

Fear And Loathing In Brad Roberts.

The Crash Test Dummies website describes "Songs Of The Unforgiven" as a stylistic shift from 2003's "Puss 'N' Boots", and they aren't kidding. They go on to say that this new album is similar to something Nick Cave or Tom Waits would do. I actually felt it was something more like fellow Canadian Leonard Cohen would produce.



There are 17 tracks, but really there are 10 full-formed songs couched in between three sonnets and four interludes that are all very short. I felt that this album was better than "Puss 'N' Boots" musically and lyrically. It's not up to their best work such as 1991's "The Ghosts That Haunt Me" and 1993's "God Shuffled His Feet", but there's something compelling in the lyrics of "Unforgiven" and Brad's dreary drone. The songs are pretty much about evil, corruption and the end of everything. It works pretty well, but there's little variation.



In fact, this album is quite homogenous in its approach and sound, and many of the songs sound alike. This works as a whole album though, but if you are looking for individual tracks that stand out, you will not find one. I have to hand it to Brad Roberts for keeping the band going (even though it's just him now with Ellen Reid lending her voice at times), and for going independent rather than selling out to the major labels. Most bands in this position would have sold out, but not Brad.



If I had to point to the best songs I'd pick "And So Will Always Be", "The Unforgiven Ones", "Is The Spell Really Broken", "Everlasting Peace" and "The Wicked And The Evil".



Let's just say that I hope Brad feels better soon, because this is the third Crash Test Dummies album in a row that has been downbeat. Maybe a reunification with the other four members might rejuvenate the music?