Backspacer

One of the benefits I have begun to really enjoy about working at the Kernel has been receiving promotional copies of forthcoming albums before their release dates. The most recent and MOST exciting album I received was a copy of Pearl Jam's "Backspacer" due out next Tuesday.

Backspacer is plain and simple, the return of Pearl Jam. Gone are the overly activist lyrics. Vedder deals with real life emotions and feelings once again as he did in the days of Ten and Vs. and my God is it refreshing. The lyrics are not only poignant, but positive. The musics major tonality compliments this extremely well and makes for a positive listening experience all around. These are happy, borderline dance-able songs. A perfect example is the albums first single, "The Fixer." A fun fact: Cameron Crowe (the greatest writer/director of all time) directed the music video for The Fixer. Check it out here.

Whats most important to note is that Vedder's vocals have their punch back. And let us be honest: Pearl Jam lives and dies by Eddie Vedders voice.

The heart of the album is its upbeat music, but Vedder shines just as well on the albums ballads, "Just Breathe" and "The End." Both are off kilter love ballads that recognize not all relationships are perfect and that life does end.

This album doesn't require you to touch the skip button. Put it on shuffle and be ready to enjoy whatever you hear, because you will.

Below is the audio from the fantastic ballad, "Just Breathe"