| [LICD Review] Seattle Times |
| February 18, 1998, 11:00 pm |
Source: Seattle Times NEW ON CD -- "LET IT COME DOWN"; [FINAL Edition] KEVIN O'HARE. Seattle Times. Seattle, Wash.: Feb 19, 1998. pg. E.3 Abstract (Document Summary) Smashing Pumpkins' guitarist James Iha's solo debut is not what one might count on from a guy who's spent most of his professional career strumming away in front of a stack of amps. "Let It Come Down" is a supremely subdued effort, showcasing Iha's gentler side. Recorded at his home studio in Chicago, it's got a homemade feel more akin to the smooth song styling of Freedy Johnston than to the frenzied pop cacophony of Smashing Pumpkins. Full Text (254 words) Copyright Seattle Times Feb 19, 1998 "Let It Come Down" James Iha (Virgin) Smashing Pumpkins' guitarist James Iha's solo debut is not what one might count on from a guy who's spent most of his professional career strumming away in front of a stack of amps. "Let It Come Down" is a supremely subdued effort, showcasing Iha's gentler side. Recorded at his home studio in Chicago, it's got a homemade feel more akin to the smooth song styling of Freedy Johnston than to the frenzied pop cacophony of Smashing Pumpkins. The album starts promisingly with the affirming "Be Strong Now" and the pop pairing of "Sound of Love" and "Beauty." All three are loaded with hooks and high harmonies, an irresistible combination. There are no major statements to be found here, no proselytizing and no politicizing. But Iha has a craftsman's knack for getting in and out of a song in under four minutes, leaving the listener with melodies that linger. Stretching that simple approach out isn't always easy, though, and there are times when all the sweetness gets a bit unnerving. The dynamics rarely shift, and that lack of tension causes songs like "Lover, Lover" and "See the Sun" to quickly blend into blandness. But the captivating psychedelic feel of "Winter" rides on a pulsating acoustic groove and string textures. The album is well executed. It makes one wonder whether Iha will demand a more prominent role the next time the Pumpkins get back to work. It sounds like he's building a case for himself. Credit: NEWHOUSE NEWS SERVICE Credit: KEVIN O'HARE |