Michael826 said:
Don't have an issue with people not digging a piece of music. That's just the way of subjectivity and art-appreciation. But look at this thread -- comments which go way beyond 'I don't like this for reasons X, Y and Z' to pure unrestricted and unqualified vitriol.
Becoming as big as Metallic is something a lot of artists want to avoid, because whenever Metallica puts out, or is involved with a new artistic work, it brings out a whole bunch of people who assert empty opinions, ie. "this sucks", "Metallica sold out", "I listen to real methulz clazzic metlica". This has been the way of things since the mid 80s and has just become more pronounced as the band has progressed in their career.
It's really quite funny. It becomes even more comically absurd when the arm-chair generals haven't even gone out of their way to see where the source material is inspired from, how it has been written and where its context and thematic nuances lie. This isn't just music, but an infusion of drama, poetry, impressionism, intense yet detached emotion and most assuredly music -- all of which you can hear masterfully played out in this track.
For most people: the
significance will fly well over their heads, because this isn't 'pick up and listen' music and a large number of people have a 'NASCAR' understanding of what Metallica is as a musical outfit.
For a few, they will understand but won't find it in their taste and for those of us who 'get' it, we will appreciate a progressive and challenging work. I wasn't excited originally because I would love to hear a follow-up to Metallica's great
Death Magnetic. However, the more I've learned/heard about this collaboration, the more exciting it has become. This is as far away from mainstream as Metallica have ever been in their career -- I applaud them for that. A monolithic band with artistic merit and passion. And for Lou Reed, this is a bold undertaking. This is pretty much all his work.
I gave Heritage a whirl. Very different, and jazzier. Lots of subtle grooves and melodic nuances that are quite subtle, yet daring. Still trying to piece its story together, but I really dig it. When you consider what 'Heritage' denotes and connotates, it becomes less disjointed and morphs into something beautiful, yet brooding and sad, like the old family photo album at the back of the family cupboard.
Some great music out this year, that's for sure. Should definitely check out 'Unto the Locust' if MH's music tickles your fancy. Very powerful. Very passionate. Stunning musicianship.
