In a generation where mainstream popular rock is slowly burning down the music industry, “Jerad Finck” is…another log on the fire. The Seattle native released his self-titled debut album in 2008 with a sound that has been tediously ringing in my ears since The Rembrandts thoughtfully dumped their trite artistry on us back in 95’ (see “Friends”).
Now before I become the harsh critic no one likes, there were times when I was listening to this album where I didn’t want to rip my headphones out of my ears and throw them across the room. Jerad sustained a nice blend of strings and acoustic/electric guitar sounds throughout the album. I thought the music and melody itself was well produced and well put together. The balladry of the lyrics was also very comparable to the Goo Goo Dolls…at times. But if its only semi-catchy beats you’re after I might suggest the song “Runaway”. It’s a well written musical number, with a side of dry lyricism. “Finck” also might have the Disney channel after him wanting the rights to ”Goodbye” for the theme song to one of their tween show sensations. I do have to give him some credit though. An artist has to have some serious guts to cover a Beatles song on a studio album, a feat that has not been achieved adequately since Joe Cocker. “Jerad” features a remake of the classic fab four song “Paperback Writer”, and if I may say, probably has Lennon rolling in his grave.
I tried on many occasions to find someway to connect to this album on any level, but could not manage to do so. With its derivative sound and lackluster lyrics, I couldn’t help but feel nothing while listening to the album. There was just not enough originality to keep my interest or enough reasoning as to why anyone, besides “Cocker” of course, would try to cover a Beatles song, but don’t get me started on that.
Aaron Short- MuzikReviews.com contributor
October 8, 2009
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