Review 1 of 6

guitarbud writes:

4of 5 Stars

Travis is one of the few bands still out there who understand the use of melody and this record is full of it. Although not their best record, it is still a great one. And as much as I respect this critics opinion, I must point out that Travis is NOT Radiohead and their should be no comparision just because Nigel produced this one. The bass lines and guitar melodies work so well on this record, especially on Big Chair. The only thing that is somewhat bothersome about this record are some of the lyrics. Other then that, it a great record full of well crafted songs.

Jun 24, 2008 14:28:41

Review 2 of 6

Asustado writes:

5of 5 Stars

If like RS's 'oh-so-hip' critics you dislike melodic, well crafted, memorable pop songs, then you will not like this record. No deafening crunching guitars here, no ambitious genre-bending, no flashy tricks.
Personal, introspective lyrics sung with sensitivity and without affection, clean guitar textures, a handsome production. Beautiful little songs.
Do yourself a favor: Ignore the pretentious tyranny of Rolling Stone's critics and listen to Battleships, My Eyes or Closer. You will be hooked. You will be free.

Nov 23, 2007 12:14:40

Review 3 of 6

AlanPartridge writes:

4of 5 Stars

lovely stuff.

Jun 27, 2007 05:55:15

Review 4 of 6

AmoriZep writes:

4of 5 Stars

Personally, the album is really GREAT! I was a very big fan of 12 Memories, VERY! I thought the band had matured to a point where it was no longer going to be "The Man Who" or "Invisible Band" esque. Then i listened to "The Boy..." and at first didn't know what to think and thought it was a step back. While i still think that is what stops me from saying this album is better than GREAT, on the second and third (and so on) listen, this album just gets better. I'm not sure i agree with the RS review in saying that the upbeat or harder numbers feel forced. They sound quite good actually. And i too don't need an "OK" from Travis, and as matter of fact, i wouldn't want the band to make that sort of an album. Not everything revolves around Radiohead when it comes to British Rock. I'll point to Oasis for that than you very much! Overall, i think songs like "Selfish Jean" and "Under the Moonlight" are some of the bands best ever, and the album is very well done and succeeds in making any Travis fan happy IMO.

May 18, 2007 06:27:37

Review 5 of 6

RS1976 writes:

4of 5 Stars

Beautiful stuff. They don't need an OK Computer - it's best when they are just themselves!

May 17, 2007 20:39:55

Review 6 of 6

Frdhockey writes:

2of 5 Stars

Tedious and whiny....unimaginative...boring

May 17, 2007 08:33:00