This is in regards to the CD review (or lack thereof) by Chris Goebel of local band The Compromise’s Teen Movie Soundtrack. I was ecstatic to see the review of my favorite local band, but caught off guard with the reviews lack of examples backing up the critic’s opinion. To me, the beginning of the article read like he was upset with our government. Quoting from the article, ’our system seems to be stumbling along in a balance of political likeness that promotes boring middle ground solutions and achieves nothing creative.’ Sounds like meaningless, political psychobabble to me. Why he used our government to begin his review, I have no idea, but it certainly did not make a point about the music.
As I was reading, I kept wondering when I would get to the actual review of the album. Finally, the review quickly changed course to speak of the album but only by using as many clich’ ways to play with the word ’compromise’ as possible (i.e. uncompromising pop punk, I personally wouldn’t compromise my musical morals).
Throughout the article, I found no real critique of the album at all. The review lacked objectivity and musical journalistic integrity. It’s as though he is criticizing the genre of music The Compromise plays, which I believe to be misleading to the reader, instead of focusing on the album’s contents. No lyrical content was quoted and the writing was quite elementary (case in point, when speaking of the instrument changes he actually says ’overdone drop-out things’).
The only real substance I read was his perception of lead singer Brandon Bell’s voice, which he praises for being a mature vocalist and rightfully so. And yes, their live shows ’have high energy,’ but this critic wouldn’t know that personally, now would he? I would encourage readers to see the band and make their own judgment about the music.
The Compromise has grown tremendously since their first album’s release, with the addition of two new members who have given the band a new dynamic. And in this case, I agree to some extent that the album does not do them justice.
I also found it obvious that the reviewer had not seen a live show because most of their onstage banter is a quick-witted, ’R’- rated performance meant for, but not limited to, college students. Besides, I didn’t know that 14 years olds were the only ones who listened to pop music. Criticizing a live show without viewing one is irresponsible and in bad taste. In short, you do not have to be 14 years old to enjoy this band. I suggest that Chris see them live before making that assumption.
’ Lauren Short, Murfreesboro
We have recently formed a new alliance of hard working bands called Nashville Underdogs. We are just dropping by to let ya’ll know we are going to be adding some bands from Murfreesboro to our roster very soon. Just wanted to let you know we are on the scene and we shall keep you posted on our coming up events and shows. Feel free to come by the myspace site and check out what we’re about. Thanks.
’ Mike (Inglewood) myspace.com/nashvilleunderdogs
