December 2004
The Complex, the group’s second music disc, is available as a DVD-Audio/DTS 96/24 disc, as well as a standard CD [Lava Records 83631-2]. The Complex strives to mainstream BMG’s unique music to make up for the loss of the visual element of the live performances. Weak vocals and ham-fisted electric guitars are added to most tracks, overlaying BMG’s interesting compositions. Most of The Complex would have been more interesting on its own. Despite my complaints about added vocals and guitars, the best selection on The Complex features Dave Matthews. Yes, that Dave Matthews. He blends so well with BMG on the very strong "Sing Along" that it almost makes up for the other disappointing tracks. The melancholy mid-tempo tune suits Matthews’ voice and guitar perfectly and it is one of the most hummable songs I’ve heard in ages. Also included is a great music video of the track. The other keeper, "Above," sounds the most like BMG to me -- the usual invented instruments, flexible rods whipped through the air, and drums are nicely augmented with hammered dulcimer. The great dynamics, transparency and surround ambience from the DVD-A really suits BMG’s music (the CD, feels a bit dimensionally flat and bass-shy in comparison). The surround channels are used moderately to heavily, but when there’s a lot of energy in the surrounds, it is relatively short lived so it doesn’t become overbearing or gimmicky. Two good tracks out of 14 do not make a good release. More BMG without the added frills and fillips, please. Or perhaps future efforts could put a little more effort into the vocal and guitar additions. The Dave Matthews track proves it is possible to do it right. GO BACK TO: |
Blue Man Group - The
Complex
