Attorney of Phoenix

It's Never Been Like That

Description

Third album from French indie rock band, who rose to prominence when their track, 'Too Young' (from their debut album, United), was featured on the soundtrack to 'Lost In Translation'. EMI. 2006.

Warning: Even limited exposure to this French band's music is liable to turn the listener into a crazed zealot desperate to "just turn people on" to their music or to wander about aimlessly wondering aloud why they're not at least as well known as, say, Erlend Oye. The band's been relentlessly eclectic since they formed in the late '90s; they make hybrid music, an electronic-flavored rock that's impossible to describe without using up half a dozen hyphens in the process. It's their most straight-ahead, "rock"-sounding release, and if your first thought is that it wouldn't hurt if It's Never Been Like That had a little bit more of a cocaine disco unicorn vibe to it, give it another listen. This record is an effortless-sounding, mini-masterpiece that mixes art song elements with delightful retro-pop. And it's scary how simply and truly great it is--easily amongst the best albums of 2006. --Mike McGonigal

Reviews

Rating: 5 / 5
Date: 2010-07-02
Summary: "Too Good To Deny"

I have listen to this many times. It is one of those albums you think is good on your first few listens, very good after about 10 spins and excellent after even more. I wasn't sure whether to give it 4 or 5 stars but after scanning through the tracks I realize how deep this album is. Almost every song is a keeper. I don't know how they could have made it better. I will be enjoying this for a long time to come.

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Rating: 5 / 5
Date: 2010-05-09
Summary: "It's Never Been Like... This"

This is an excellent Phoenix album. If you liked Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix (their 4th album which received the most widespread recognition) then you will love this album just as much, if not more! Excellent music, catchy tunes and lyrics, and that mellow-yet-rockin' beat that keeps surfacing throughout the entire album, making it seem like all 10 tracks here are just one song, seamlessly flowing into each other, yet without sounding repetitive or boring. (Well, the lyrics for Second to None do get a tad repetitive, but that's just Phoenix's style.) Each song can stand on its own, but this album is definitely meant to be heard all together. If you're here because you heard Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix and thought to check out their earlier stuff, then buy this. You won't regret it. Or, if you're just looking for a cool new band to add to your music library, then buy this. You won't regret it. Heck, if you like to hear bands and music that aren't mainstream, popular, or just plain overplayed, then buy this. You won't regret it.

Seeing a pattern here?

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Rating: 5 / 5
Date: 2010-04-28
Summary: "simply put"

I really enjoyed this cd I say that in past tense because I let friends borrow and haven't heard it since don't worry I'll get it back

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Rating: 4 / 5
Date: 2009-05-03
Summary: "Talk Talk Talk"

"It's Never Been Like That" is my introduction to this French band, who sing quite well in English by the way. Singer Justin Thompson whose jazz gem Brand New Same Old Obsessions totally knocked me out said this was one of his favorite bands, which brought me to it. I can certainly see the attraction. The music is original and bubbles with a classic feeling. "Rally" keeps varying the pace from the verse to bridge to the delightful chorus, "Don't you give me those shifty eyes, pay attention, dirty talk talk talk, quiet." "Long Distance Call" crosscuts a lovely melody with the repetition of the lyric that becomes title to the set. "Courtesy Laughs," the instrumental "North" & "Sometimes in the Fall" are also favorite cuts. Phoenix's delightful pop is original and sets a chronic smile on my face. Enjoy!

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Rating: 5 / 5
Date: 2008-01-24
Summary: "WOW"

This CD is absolutely incredible. Phoenix has instantly become my favorite band. This CD coupled with Alphabetical are just amazing.