Better Nature

Ermagerd

I don't think this album gets enough credit for how introspective most of these songs are. When I found out the backstory behind the lyrics of Circadian Rhythm, I was on the verge of tears. I urge those who view this album negatively to give it another listen.

If I hated this album, I would be fine writing that. I didn't expect a ton after Neck of the Woods, it was OK. Instead, I am thoroughly impressed with where SSPU is at as a band. I have been listening to it quite a while and it appears most of these reviews came out some time ago, perhaps a little knee-jerky. In my opinion, best of their albums, and in my alone on an island with 10 albums collection.

Any SSP album where Nikki sings lead on a cut or two is a solid addition to the collection. There is no standout such as "Panic Switch" on this lip, but it's still a terrific listen. This band is never bad.

I've been a fan since the mid 2000's and have loved the unexpected turns, big guitar sound, and driving feel SSPU has always had but this album is their obituary. Anyone that loves Swoon or Carnavas will not even think this is the same band. Its devoid of any soul, new or progessive sound - nothing, its just open, vacant, and soul-less. It pains me to say this about SSPU, having just seen them live (which was amazing) but all the creative power of their previous albums is completley missing here. The only song that comes close at all is Nightlight, and it's fringe pop / soundtrack style and just barely in the vein I'd expect for a new album. Dont' waste your money or time on this one...all the 4 & 5 star reviews you see below are generic fakes mostly from plants & marketers. SSPU should just forget this ever happened and start over. None of us want the same album, but we don't want a lobotamy either - and this is the latter.

Just radiates pure coolness. These guys (and girl) only get better with age and leave me wanting to be wherever they are. Really inspiring music.

I fell in love with this group after browsing a record shop and coming upon their first full length album "Carnivas". I gave it a listen and immediately was swooning at the vocals and melodies. Extremely well written songs and I've loved everything they've ever created. It's fantastic that they continue to evolve as artists, yet still maintain that sound, feel and emotion which I've loved for almost a decade now.

My favorite album thus far, it stands out as every song ranges from good to excellent. Starts off well and goes up from there, with a great sequence from Nightlight through Latchkey Kids.

I am a huge SSPU fan and I liken them to transcendent bands like Pink Floyd and the Moody Blues. Yes, this album is different and does not sound like their other albums, but that is not a bad thing. This is art from artists and we get to listen to their creation. Those that complain that Better Nature doesn't follow some formulaic template that they claim is "the Silversun sound" are selfish and misguided. These are the same people that would have complained that the Beach Boys timeless album "Pet Sounds" didn't sound like "Surfin' Safari" or that the Beatles' "Sgt. Peppers" didn't sound like "Meet the Beatles". Silversun Pickups is on a creative journey with their music and we get invited to listen along, enjoy the ride!

I have this entire album on repeat. Never Enough..*sigh*