Stream: Pearl Jam’s Backspacer
Folks, it’s finally here… Backspacer. Just in time for the weekend, Pearl Jam’s ninth studio outing is currently streaming via NME. So, snatch up that laptop of yours — drag those speakers, too — and hit the outdoors to relax. All 11 tracks here are perfect for a Saturday BBQ, where you can sit back, let loose, and listen to the frantic-yet-feel good pop that is Backspacer. What a fun title to say!
If sitting back isn’t your thing, however, then perhaps you’ll want to download the album via Rock Band. Starting next week, owners of XBOX 360, Wii, and Playstation 3 will be able to master each track with all their plastic-instrument glory on 9/20, 9/22, and 9/24, respectively.
If you ask me, “The Fixer” is a must for Rock Band. Who else can’t wait to scream, “Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah — fight to get it back again,” while chugging whiskey?
Oh, the weekend’s already here for this writer.
I have TEN and VS. on cassette, but since I’ve only remained a casual fan of the band. However, this new album sounds great. I agree about Eddie’s vocals, and think the rugged nature of his voice adds to every song. There are some real goosebump moments on this record, namely the choruses to “Amongst the Waves” and “Force of Nature”. That last song is a real keeper, and “The Fixer” is a great first single. Must go back to older albums now. Thanks a lot, BACKSPACER!!!
Frankly I could feel the age and rasp on Vedder’s voice through some of the songs, but instead of taking away and weakening his voice it adds this ragged bluesy passion. This album is probably the most positive Pearl Jam release I have ever heard, select tracks on No Code and Yield notwithstanding. Way to go boys, you rocked the house.
PS - This will be a party record for Rock Band 2 by far! Totally digging the BBQ vibe (particularly on “Just Breathe”).
One word — WOW