Music: 8/10 Vocals: 3/5 Lyrics: 4/5 Production: 1/5
Total: 16/25: C+
J. Mascis and the band reunite to produce Beyond. It is a mostly enjoyable romp down memory lane of '90s rock music. It stays true to its roots and produces great music with bad singing. One thing that can't be disputed is J can play the guitar. Not only are the rhythm parts excellent, but he can wail on lead guitar. This album features several 2+ minute solos that are melodic and ripping at the same time. It makes me remember that great guitarists are so few and far between in the 2000s.
Unfortunately, J continues to sing his barely legible lyrics. He's never been good and continues the streak. Yeah, if your a fan you love his quirky voice, but he'll never win over a main stream audience. It's a shame because this band behind a great singer could be extremely successful.
The worst part of the album is the production. There is no excuse to the quality of sound. I feel there is gauze in my ears and haze over the band's sound. Almost any decent home studio can produce a better sounding album. As with the recent Meat Puppets album, I'm astonished that studios can even produce something of this low quality.
If you liked Dinosaur Jr. 15 years ago, you'll love this album. And if you love great guitar solos, pick this up immediately. Everyone else should probably stay away.
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