Search - Crash Test Dummies :: Songs of the Unforgiven

Fear And Loathing In Brad Roberts.

Jason Stein | San Diego, CA United States | 02/10/2005

(3 out of 5 stars)

"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?"

ANother Incredible album

A. Mesnar | Pittsburgh, PA | 10/13/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"If your a CTD fan, you know not one album will be like the next. It is always interesting to see what Brad will come up with next. Strangely enough, this one is as deep in the roots of old contemporary country. It is slow the whole way through and a dark album, with incredible lyrics and vocals. This album is perfect for the fall season, when everything is getting darker and dying. It is a setting for Autumn. I again think this album is one of his better albums. I would say if you like "Ghosts That Haunt Me Now" and "I Dont Care" albums this is perfect blend of the 2. However don't expect the pace to ever get any faster then what it is. Nice work Brad, another great album."

Great New CTD Album

Scott Baret | Pittsburgh, PA USA | 10/14/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I really like this new album. After being hooked on CTD by a friend over the summer, I have listened to the band almost every day. This one is much different from the well-known "God Shuffled His Feet" and is more melancholy in nature. The lyrics, sung by Brad Roberts in his haunting baritone voice, are very thought provoking. Highly recommended."