Electro-Shock Blues
by Eels

This is one of many albums that I pondered over for ages. This is a dark concept album of serene beauty and humility inspired by all sorts of personal tragedies. Arrangements are overwhelmed with violins, woodwinds, keyboards, samplers and turntables. In part the vocals register Nick Drake while at others it resembles Tom Waits whilst musically it at times echoes the demented 'blues' of Beck. But Electro-Shock Blues is no mere imitation, but an original work of substance - a desolate and 'naked' exhortation of the deeper recesses of the human soul. The counterpoint to this programme is the closing track in which a deafening orchestra of violins play to a romantic theme while the protaganist yearns to find meaning in his life. This is not just a mournful requiem, but an uplifting affirmation for life.

The tragedies that inspired the album aren't dibble-dabbled, but rather refreshingly taken head on. As E sings in Last Stop: This Town "You're dead, but the world keeps spinning" - to say something so honest and to the point takes lots of emotional strength, and that's where the poignancy is delivered. When listening to this album I really feel like I'm being transported into a whole other living and breathing world or story - the only other album that captures that for me is In the Aeroplane Over The Sea.
This album is almost as quirky as it is tear-jerking, brilliantly written and such a refreshing and new take on the topic of death and mourning.
In my opinion - a masterpiece.

From CellarDoor TOP 100 COMMENTER 05/14/2009 01:25 | #4216 | TOP COMMENT Vote up your preferred comments and the comments with the most votes will be flagged.

Transcending loss through music. An album I treasure.

A few years ago I was seriously I'll and required a bone marrow transplant. I had this album on whilst having radiotherapy! Anyone who has seen a family member die, slowly; or suffered themselves will relate to the album. If you haven't it'll give you a good idea what it's like. Not one to put on whilst getting ready to go out on the beers, but brilliant for those who like their music to reflect real life. Considering his early life, Everett is a remarkable individual.

From babyBlueSedan TOP 100 COMMENTER 02/02/2015 05:17 | #133737 | TOP COMMENT Vote up your preferred comments and the comments with the most votes will be flagged.

When this one finally clicks, it hits you hard. One of the most heartbreaking albums I've ever heard, and E's method of storytelling makes it really easy to put yourself in his shoes.