• Artist / Title: Ben Folds: Rockin the Suburbs
• Month Reviewed: January 2002
• Format: CD
• Buy:

Apparently, Mr Folds has disbanded his three piece band ‘Ben Folds Five’ and gone solo! This is his first such release and is one of the best albums I have ever heard in any style ever! Yes, it really is that good.

Ben plays all the instruments (with few exceptions) and sings some of the most beautiful songs you’ll hear in anyone’s lifetime. The 12 songs on the album are simply exceptional examples of a master songwriter at work. The sentimental ones are sentimental without cliché and truly tug at the heartstrings. The final track ‘The Luckiest’ is moving beyond description.

The title track and first single is catchy and funny and delivers a cynical look at the current music industry. Comparisons between Elton John and Billy Joel are inevitable, but this work far exceeds his progenitors both in style, musicality and sheer panache. If you ever liked the Ben Folds Five, you will love this. If not, and you want to hear inspired writing at its finest, look no further. Recommended without reservations!