Way to Normal

Ben Folds' new album came out last week and since then I've had plenty of time to listen to it many times. I thought I'd write a track-by-track review with some commentary about the songs. There's a discussion of the album here at the Triple J web site between Richard Kingsmill and Ben Folds. This album is quite different to Songs For Silverman- it lacks the emphasis on ballads and slow emotional songs, but there are still some great tracks here.

1. Hiroshima (B B B Benny Hit His Head)
This track features crowd noise in the background and tells a self deprecating story of 'public failure'. It's about an actual event that happened to Ben in Japan at a gig, where he fell off the stage and hit his head and hurt his ankle. Apparently Ben finished the gig anyway. References Elton John too.

2. Dr Yang
Another energetic little opener to hook people in to the album. Not the best song, but not bad. Fast paced piano pop the way Ben Folds does it best.

3. The Frown Song
One of Ben's social commentary tracks (like All You Can Eat) about selfishness and consumerism, that has a habit of sticking in your head for a day following one listen early in the morning.

4. You Don't Know Me
Features Regina Spektor on backing vocals. A cute, boppy pop song with a distinctive rhythm that is one of the stand out tracks on the album. The upbeat aspects override the darker subject matter of the song (another 'break-up song' according to Ben. He does do many of these).

5. Before Cologne/ 6. Cologne
One of the few 'ballad' tracks on the album- beautiful piano and lyrics which seem to be about his recent divorce, but may not be according to Ben.

7. Errant Dog
One of the best tracks on the album- loud, with a heavy rhythm reminiscent of Song For the Dumped and also has the growly Ben Folds Five bass like Robert Sledge used to play. Probably the reason I like it so much.

8. Free Coffee
An understated song that's still well constructed and hangs around in your head for awhile. A bit of a 'sleeper' that hides between two loud songs but should not be ignored.

9. Bitch Went Nuts
A hilarious song, fast and funny lyrics, which is apparently about an ex roommate of Ben's who had a crazy ex-girlfriend who stabbed his volleyball (although Ben changed it to basketball here for the sake of the song).

10. Brainwascht
Another strong rhythm here with a catchy melody and energy. Not sure what it's about, though.

11. Effington
A great opening and a great concept- 'If there's a God he's laughing at us and our football team'. You have to say the word aloud to get it.

12. Kylie From Connecticut
Another ballad to close the album. It has a particularly good piano part towards the end, saving it from being too sentimental.