Personally, it seems to me that Frank Black’s later work has always been unfairly judged next to The Pixies. The man was lucky enough to be touched by absolute genius in the early part of his career, and surely it is only fair to judge the later era on its own merits. Having said that ‘Show me your tears’ does sound like a typical Frank Black album on first listen. Joey Santiago is installed in his usual guest spot and things seem a little too comfortable. However, on closer inspection it becomes apparent that this album is all about expanding the bands sound further into the genres that influence them. Every F B & the Cs album has a slight country influence yet on this record the country tinged tunes are absolutely exquisite. ‘Horrible Day’ and ‘My Favourite Kiss’ are both garnished with ringing guitar work and longing lyrics. ‘Jaina Blues’ is possibly the most commercial track the band has ever recorded with a real pop rock edge. This is no bad thing in my opinion! The only really disappointing song on the album comes in the shape of opener ‘Nadine’. The instrumentation sounds plodding and the song is far too meat and potatoes for what this band is capable of. Give ‘Show me your tears’ a chance and you will not be disappointed. This album is as strong as anything Frank Black and the Catholics have recorded. Forget the man’s past and listen to the record on its own merits. You might be pleasantly surprised! DW
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Posted - 10/15/2003 : 02:08:18
