Eric wrote:I've almost given up hope that anything that sounds compelling to us hardcore will happen (JTT, Symphonic show, new album, deep cuts). I can't believe how disinterested I've become in my favorite band since 2011 and Eclipse.
Eric wrote:I've almost given up hope that anything that sounds compelling to us hardcore will happen (JTT, Symphonic show, new album, deep cuts). I can't believe how disinterested I've become in my favorite band since 2011 and Eclipse.
Rant warning to follow in various points
It's sad isn't it Eric? Being my favorite band too...I miss the days of the "Evening With..." show tours -- albeit the consequences that come with doing those longer shows/tours -- and the more enthusiasm across the stage during those years. Looking at you Mr. Cain -- quit looking like a grump on stage and dig back to find some of that 80's energy, or even the late 90's/early '00's.
I was very excited and hopeful for JTT and was more than willing to shell out money to see them had they played close enough to me because you had a band playing a variety from the catalog history with guys on stage who look like they're enjoying themselves and having a great time and it was about the music and sounded great without a huge production needed -- the animated album covers have been kind of a cool concept though on the recent tours.
Watching the symphonic videos again tonight and the only stretch is Mother, Father, but you can't fault Arnel on a song that he hasn't had to sing before, especially short-notice with Deen's departure from the lineup. There was a great blend sonically between the band and the symphony. Plus them doing Patiently, Winds of March, and Opened the Door.
I would be very surprised if they did a new album considering Eclipse was 2011 -- they should've cut another DVD in Europe on that tour as they played the most tracks from that album.
The Escape/Frontiers show would've been more favorable (subjective opinion) had they been able to do it with Deen still in the lineup. Don't get me wrong, it's cool to have 4/5 of the classic lineup of the band out there touring (can't seem to write and record together though, hmm) with Steve Smith, but I don't think people knew what to do or how to react having Travis in the performing lineup -- not that he's incapable with his contributions, but on paper it didn't make sense. Also, the fact they should've taken the time to re-record the performance for Troubled Child instead of omitting it altogether.
Random point -- Arnel's great and has sang his ass off for 13 years and fans should appreciate and admire that -- but there will always be that what if or wish that they had rolled forward with JSS -- the energy and (again) enthusiasm on the stage and changing up the set, he helped light a fire under their butts to be a rock band again to positive reviews.
As far as deep cuts...barring La Do Da...there's so much material to draw from, not expecting anything from the first 3 albums, but it would be nice to hear gems from Infinity through Raised on Radio, or Trial By Fire through Eclipse -- plenty of great tunes.
All right, enough rambling for now
Posted: Fri Oct 11, 2019 1:21 pm
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