Jimmy Eat World

Clarity

One of the best CD's I've Ever Heard

Review Score:

(10/10)
First of all, this CD is not for everyone. You need to have a certain kind of music taste that will make listening to this CD the first few times bearable; if you can accomplish that, however, you'll soon find that the lyrical masterpieces on this CD far outweigh the occasionally redundant musical backdrop.

Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of "Clarity" is that it is a themed CD that does not fail on any given track. Each song on the piece is designed to give a certain aspect of clarity to a given topic, whether it is drug addiction on "Just Watch the Fireworks" or failed infatuation on "A Sunday." All of these messages are powerful, clear, and pertinent.

To give another indicator as to how much of a contradiction this CD is compared to other, run-of-the-mill mediocre productions, "12.23.95," a practically instrumental piece, still can give you chills down your back. Many bands - and often many very good bands - will attempt to make a themed CD, where every song has a similar message, and either fail or sound too bland and redundant for success. "Clarity" walks the fine line between these errata and does an excellent job of doing so.

This CD is a must-have for anyone who needs to hear the lyricism to help them through a bad experience, or simply anyone who needs to just relax and know that it's all been done before. Combine this with the musical arrangements and sterling vocals, and you have what I consider to be one of the best CDs of the past ten years.

More Reviews: