Reviewed by: Rox 12 June, 1998
For The Record (no pun)
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I'm glad
somebody beside me liked OK Computer.
Having gotten that
off of my chest, let's get down to business. The album lacks much of the testosterone that fueled Gish, Siamese Dream, and about half of Mellon Collie and The Infinite Sadness. Billy has apparently fallen in love, and it has had a major impact on his music.
Adore employs a fair amount of electronic effects in it's production. Much of this was
to be expected, given that Jimmy Chamberlain has not been permanently replaced in the Pumpkins line up.
The record is dominated with down-tempo ballads opening with "To Sheila," which is one of the prettier songs I've heard recently not done by Radiohead. "Ava Adore" follows, and is the only track with any of the trademark crunch we've all come to expect from the Pumpkins. "Perfect" probably will be the next single cut from the album. It's a bright happy song ideal for late summer driving.
"Pug" and "Annie Dog" are also quite interesting stylistic departures for Corgan et al.
Musically much of the album is reminiscent of early Billy Joel and Elton John as it is based
around beautiful piano melodies. Billy and James Iha have punched these melodies up to keep them from becoming too cliche.
This record is rather dreamy, and quite strong as a unified whole. Very few recording artists these days take the time to develop an entire album, as opposed to a collection of singles. Adore may dissappoint fans expecting to have their lungs
ripped out. It will attract a great number of new fans for the band, as it is very accesible, and a great listen. Open all the doors and windows at sunset, put it on and kick back, you won't be dissapointed.
Bottom line, it's a great record to bone
to.