Thoughts on new Coheed and Cambria?

nomisofsiman

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I know they aren't everyone's cup of tea, but I know some have talked about them on here. Anyways, Coheed's new album came out this past week and am wondering what people think of it. It's very different from the last and probably their most experimental to date, which in turn makes sense since it is the prequel. I'm liking it but due to the experimental direction, it'll take some time to grow on me, especially since there doesn't seem to be any real show stealer track.
 
It's ridiculously awesome. I know a lot of their fans are pissed because its not what they're used to, but honestly all the albums are different and show some real solid progression by the band (not necessarily progression in that they are becoming more enjoyable, but that they are changing it up). I still think the previous album will remain my favourite but it's too early to tell.

I'm sure Drew will chime in with his thoughts.
 
It's ridiculously awesome. I know a lot of their fans are pissed because its not what they're used to, but honestly all the albums are different and show some real solid progression by the band (not necessarily progression in that they are becoming more enjoyable, but that they are changing it up). I still think the previous album will remain my favourite but it's too early to tell.

I'm sure Drew will chime in with his thoughts.

I'm in the same boat with you. I probably won't end up liking any of their albums more than "No World for Tomorrow", but that was probably their most rocking album and it would be hard to top that. I really like this experimentation going and I thought Chris Pennie on drums added a lot to the overall sound. As you said though, all their albums are different and they aren't one of those bands to rest on their laurels.
 
I need to take another listen but my first impression was that I didn't like it. I was expecting great things with the addition of the super technical drummer from Dillinger Escape Plan but was let down. The songs seemed forgettable and anything that was interesting they had already done better on previous albums. Another thing that bothered me was all of the sound effects/guitar noise. I found it very distracting. It did make me want to listen to the first two albums again though. Second Stage and In Keeping Secrets are amazing!
 
I need to take another listen but my first impression was that I didn't like it. I was expecting great things with the addition of the super technical drummer from Dillinger Escape Plan but was let down. The songs seemed forgettable and anything that was interesting they had already done better on previous albums. Another thing that bothered me was all of the sound effects/guitar noise. I found it very distracting. It did make me want to listen to the first two albums again though. Second Stage and In Keeping Secrets are amazing!

I agree in terms of some of the tracks utilizing sound effects/guitar noise a little too much, especially "Guns of Summer". I felt that one in particular had a really bad mix where at times it was hard to make out the vocals.

You are right though. There are no standouts as I pointed out, but overall I find the experience very good and interesting but VERY experimental and not as catchy or rocking as past albums.
 
Disappointing.

I've been following this band since the week Second Stage Turbine Blade came out and seem to like them less and less with each release...quite a shame too since they were my favorite band all throughout high school.
 
i was not impressed and i am a long time fan. the mix and songwriting both leave something to be desired. change is fine as an artist needs to do it to survive, but regardless of that fact the songs are just not very good.
 
I guess I'm in the minority since I am absolutely in love with this album. I think getting those two producers (one of whom worked on Tool's "10,000 Days", the other on the past few NIN/Reznor releases) was the best thing they could've done for their sound. I was pretty disappointed with No World for Tomorrow because the songwriting seemed more watered down and straightforward when compared to the previous albums, and I was afraid they would continue the trend with Year of the Black Rainbow.

They manage to keep the "Coheed" sound while still experimenting with it, and the end-product is an absolute aural feast. I've been listening to the album nonstop ever since it leaked, and as of right now my favorite songs are "Far", "Here We Are, Juggernaut", and "Made out of Nothing". There are so many little nuggets of brilliance layered into each of the songs; I'm still finding new stuff that I hadn't heard before on just about every listen.

I can't wait to see them in a couple of weeks. :D
 
Not into them at all.
Just wanted to add I heard a rumor that they might be added to the Maiden tour this summer. Anyone else heard anything about this?

Have not heard that. I would find that pretty hard to believe though since it'll be a stretch probably to even get DT at an hour playing time and I don't think they need a third band on the bill.
 
I have a similar opinion. I've only listened to it twice so far and it is hard to form an opinion outside of that it is solid at the bare minimum. I agree it is a bit different than what they've been doing recently.

That's why I said I think this album is going to be a grower.

I actually want to check into this band at some point in the near future. I've always passed over them before.

~Brian~

If you do, I would probably recommend Volume IV I'm a Burning Star. That seems to be the best combination of all their stuff. While I love No World For Tomorrow, it is deceptive in terms of what the band is like as it's probably the most commercial and rocking album of theirs, whereas the others are pretty diverse.
 
If you do, I would probably recommend Volume IV I'm a Burning Star. That seems to be the best combination of all their stuff. While I love No World For Tomorrow, it is deceptive in terms of what the band is like as it's probably the most commercial and rocking album of theirs, whereas the others are pretty diverse.

Thanks, I'll check em' out.

~Brian~