Pearl Jam
Binaural
Epic
Pearl Jam definitely learned some important lessons from other bands who have come on strong, basked in their 15 minutes of fame, and then vanished for one reason or another. Pearl Jam has managed not only to survive as an intact group (with the exception being drummer turnover), but they continue to create the timeless, passionate rock n’ roll that has all but disappeared in recent years. Binaural, Pearl Jam’s sixth studio release, picks up where Vitalogy and Yield left off, with raucous rockers like “Breakerfall” and “Insignificance,” as well as spacious, experimental ballads like “Of The Girl” and “ Sleight of Hand.” Pearl Jam’s popularity has certainly slipped since the release of their debut album, Ten, largely due to the fact that they don’t fit into the current media exploitation of angry rap-metal at one end of the spectrum or bubblegum pop at the other. Strongly influenced by classy classic rock bands like the Who, Pearl Jam is still making music that summons feeling and emotion from the listener’s soul that will surely stand the test of time.
Epic/Sony Music, 550 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10022-3211, http://www.pearljam.com.
