Post by Fuggle on Jul 8, 2004 9:07:01 GMT -5
Metal Box
by Public Image Limited
Released: 20 October, 1994
Reviews:
timeless Rating:
Metal Box is revered by many, and rightly so. There is this continuity with Lydon and that is simply being himself. He is gloriously misunderstood. A true working class hero. In his book 'No Irish, No Blacks, No Dogs' he mentions that he was a shy boy who became the most notorious rock star in the history of rock and roll (or words to that affect). Simple psychology however, will reveal that the man is still shy. That is what is so endearing about him. Apart from his intelligence and cutting remarks, he is an extremely sensitive human being. This is why this album works. There is no 'knowingness' to it.
Metal Box is a heartfelt album. It is not just the ramblings of an angry young man, but a sacrifice. Cynics are probably the most sensitive people in the world. They want the truth, that is all. Lies bug them (Read 'Conversations With Kafka' by Gustav Janouch. Maybe then, people will see how important Lydon is). Lydon himself refuses to be seen as an intellect. His habit is to destroy myths. There are no heros.
Pil are more relevant to me then the Sex Pistols will ever be. Morbidly, it is because I find them less fun. They are a wry smile rather than a good laugh. Listening to this album is like being with a best friend. Why is Jah Wobbles bass playing so celebrated? It is the heart beating in expectation.
Stop Making Sense and don't accept the madness which everyone accepts as the norm. Be gloriously misunderstood!
Fresh New Vintage Rating:
You want to see where music's going? You want to hear something new and fresh. Then look where music has been. Vintage music, ahead of its time.
Graveyard Death Disco Rating:
Imagine yourself locked in a dream. In this dream you're locked in your mind and everything around you comes out of nowhere and feels like swelling and glass at the touch. Through it all you feel like you've stepped in a delerium hell. Welcome to PiL's Metal Box.
This music is so negative and anti- anything within sight that you'll become convinced that as much violence is in the tone as anger is in the voice singing over it.
Sometimes music has a way of affirming life; this music has a way of affirming death, decay, and world-madness. And I feel more alive for hearing it.