Grandaddy specializes in a certain, overly-dramatic emo rock. Due to that genre’s almost non-existence in polite society, that might explain why they’ve since disbanded. Nonetheless, despite the genre no longer being a viable option, this is a testament to the fact that even music I’m almost genetically programmed to dislike can have some bright spots.
Apparently the whole album works as a concept album musing over technology and its various failings. The songs refer to the coldness that technology brings us, disconnected from actual emotions. Of course, this means that occasionally things get cheesy. But most of the times they tend to avoid outright cringe inducing awfulness. Plus, starting out a pop album with a 9 minute song is fairly ambitious.
Pop is the main goal here. “Crystal Lake” is easily the catchiest, most fun song on here. While still referring to the darkness going on with the rest of the album, the playful keyboards in the background makes it a little more manageable. Jason Lytle may not be the best singer, but he seems aware of his limitations and his delivery makes the song that much better for me.
There’s some experimentation here as well. “Jed’s Other Poem (Beautiful Ground)” comes across as a surprisingly touching dirge. The broken drum only adds to the effect.
Honestly, this isn’t something you’ll always be in the mood for. But if you want to throw a pity party for yourself, it makes a surprisingly good soundtrack.