andy_chalmers_102

There is no doubt that the Foo Fighters are one of the artists that have shaped the current generation of music, and are future rock legends. 2005’s “In Your Honor” was an above average modern rock album, but was somewhat a letdown after all the hype that had surrounded it. Foo Fighters’ latest offering, 2007’s “Echoes, Silence, Patience and Grace sees the band sticking to the old formula that has worked for them time after time, while also taking their music to a whole new level, testing the boundaries of their musical ability.

The Pretender - A made-for-radio masterpiece that has all the makings of a hit single. A great showcase of the band’s ability, especially Chris Shiflett. 8/10

Let it Die - A beautiful song with amazing lyrics and another brilliant display of Shiflett’s playing ability. The song is built up from a melodic acoustic progression, into a massive heavy rock anthem. This is without a doubt one of the best songs on the album. 7.5/10

Erase/Replace - Easily the best song on “Echoes”, and possibly one of the best they have ever written. The song is so simple, yet so catchy and just pure brilliance. 10/10

Long Road To Ruin - A good listen, but it doesn’t have the “wow factor” that many of the other tracks had, though Hawkins manages to make this track slightly memorable with some pretty cool drumbeats, and the guitar solo, although very short, is quite good as well. 6/10

Come Alive - A nice, easy listening track, but there’s too many similarities to “Let it Die” for it to be called a standout. 6/10

Stranger Things Have Happened – Another great track. The lyrics are some of the best I’ve heard. 7/10

Cheer Up, Boys – Worst track on the album. It just isn’t catchy, and not good technically either. Seems more like a B-side. 3/10

Summer’s End – A laid back track with surf-rock style guitar. It’s a really nice song. 7.5/10

Ballad of The Beaconsfield miners – A brilliant display of the ability of both Grohl and Shiflett. The story behind the song is very touching as well. 9/10

Statues – Another awesome song. Slow with a thick instrumental texture, and some powerful lyrics. 9.5/10

But, Honestly – The awesome guitar riffs, beats and vocal melody is tarnished by almost transparent bass lines that might as well not even be there. 7/10

Home – AMAZING! Absolute brilliance. This is one of the most amazing songs I have ever heard. The piano melody is beautiful and Grohl’s voice somehow manages to be extremely soft, but at the same time awesomely powerful. The violin is also really nice. 10/10

Tracks to hear:
The Pretender
Erase/Replace
Ballad of the Beaconsfield Miners
Statues
Home

Tracks to skip:
Cheer Up, Boys
Long Road To Ruin
Come Alive

Overall Rating: 8/10