Heaven
Paul Westerberg is the best song writer this side of heaven.
Unbelievable effort
If you are not, then its time you picked up Suicane. If you are a Paul Westerberg fan, you know how good his material is. This is Paul's best solo release, and quite possibly the best album he has been associated with since the Replacement(s) days with Tim. 14 songs is amazing, and Eventually is pretty good, but neither can compare to the soft force and quiet confidence that his latest effort does. "Its a Wonderful Lie" is perhaps the most honest, and non-cliched song I have ever heard. Followed all the way to the end with the ever-so-sad "Bookmark. All points in between are keepers. While Eventually was a bit spotty, and hit-or-miss, this album reinstates Paul as the best living songwriter.
The best yet ... the Westerberg album I've been waiting for
When the album came out, I asked a trusted clerk at a music dealer to describe the album. I own every Replacements and Westerberg album produced by a record label, and there is something special about Suicaine Gratification. He said melodramatic. I said that is what I like. But his description isn't complete, because through and through, this is the best Westerberg solo album yet. It keeps his classical sound and powerful lyrics. This album has all the emotion, passion and drama one would expect from this great song writer. I expected typical Westerberg when I bought this, but I received more than that. I agree with previous reviews about the collection of songs, but one that has been overlooked is "Fugitive Kind," an absolutely brilliant song. It may be my favorite Westerberg song since that dark day when the Replacements ceased to exist. This is a must buy for any 'Mats fan, but also a must-have for any who prides themselves on having a wide musical taste. Westerberg's treatment of human emotion is unmatched, and he continues to write about topics that others don't, or couldn't. Still, there's a humor in his lyrics that doesn't seem hokie. No other album this year is like Suicaine Gratification.
Paul returns with a mixed bag...
The man can write damn good songs. I have been a fan of Paul Westerberg for years. I mean, lyrically can anyone touch him? I say no way. the only thing lacking on this album is the pop catchy-ness that pervaded his last record, Eventually. Several of the Suicaine tracks are astounding, though. Especially "Self-Defense" which makes me wish that I hadn't have quit piano lessons when I was 11 and opt for the drums. Same Westerberg sound, too. It's classic, but I wanna see Paul really take a trip in another direction. . . Paul meets The Dust Bros. ? I'm babbling, buy the record, but if you must choose, I say get "14 Songs" first, save up, and THEN get "Suicaine".
Excellent CD-Grows with each listen
Not only do the lyrics sneak up and surprise you with their complexity, but the music grows on you as well. I have found myself listening to this CD over and over. A definite achievement for Westerberg.
You can see a complete list of all Paul Westerberg discography, or go back to the Paul Westerberg tabs
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