Review 1 of 3

likewise writes:

4of 5 Stars

I love a band that gives me something unexpected. Trail of Dead is one of those bands for me. They just exude fearlessness. After the first 4 tracks I had extremely mixed feelings about this album, but as the album settled in, I really started to enjoy it. The irony of the album is that the title track "So Divided" is actually the most unified and 'Dead-ish track on the cd. The rest of the album feels like a strange mixture of early Pink Floyd, "Sea Change"-era-Beck, and who knows what else. In short, the album is absolutely divided, but with the exceptions of "Stand in Silence" and "Naked Sun," thats a very good thing.

Jan 10, 2007 21:41:19

Review 2 of 3

80paddyb writes:

2of 5 Stars

So Divided lacks both the sonic massiveness of "Source
Tags..." and the poppier, more concise songwriting of
"Worlds Apart". Actually, it sounds a bit like a more diluted
version of the latter, taking its ecclecticism to a level that
approaches pointlessness. Some songs hint at Trail of Dead's
creative ability (Wasted State of Mind, Life) and some are just
downright awful (Naked Sun). All in all a very inconsistent
effort from a generally excellent band. I expect more from
Trail of Dead, and have high hopes for their next album.

Dec 5, 2006 23:32:24

Review 3 of 3

kld241 writes:

4of 5 Stars

Trail of Dead doesn't entirely disappoint. "So divided" is definitely divided(style wise) but aren't they sort of known for that? Maybe not so much for different genres of music but mainly of the same style just slowed shoe-gazer then spead up to make the cut for the rockers. This one is different but fulfilling. Perfect kind of music to just leave play when you have a few friends over. Some of the lyrics will really strike you in places and times when there aren't any lyrics aka long, TOD style, guitar fills will strike you also. Now as for the RS review, I'm not entirely sure I'd consider New Pornographers "poppy"...at all, but understand that Trail went out on a limb to try something unknown to them and it sounds alright. Overall a decent album from one of those bands you almost forgot about (Or have never heard of).

Nov 6, 2006 16:12:31