Whatever and Ever Amen

by

Ben Folds Five

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Whatever and Ever Amen proves that the spectacular pop song craft of 1995's self titled "Ben Folds Five" album was no fluke. The songs on here can become very addictive. He pulls off these infectious tunes just as well as Elton John, Billy Joel or Joe Jackson; he is definitely a gifted piano man.

I did not discover this album when I was in high school like a lot of people I knew, but it takes me back there every time I listen to it. It is a great record, symbolizing the time when it came out in 1997. Ben Folds has opened me up to the world of piano music. He is the reason I love Elton John and Billy Joel so much today.

This album is just filled with stand-out tracks. I'm sure everyone has heard the very memorable song "Brick", about the struggles with abortion. "One Angry Dwarf and 200 Solemn Faces" kicks off the CD nicely with it's fast paced rhythm. The second track "Fair" is my personal favorite. "Song For The Dumped" is a song that everyone can relate to. "Smoke" is also one of my favorites; I'm not sure what the instrument he is playing is called, but it's chillingly sweet. Then you have "Steven's Last Night In Town", and fantastic swing number brightened up with some horns. They mix it up so much, and still keep the guitars out of the picture.

This album is very diverse and has plenty of material to be loved by all. I would recommend it to anybody who likes any kind of music; is that vague enough?

Hey, it's a good album compared to the sea of fetid waste floating around the airwaves, but really, compared to their debut masterpiece, this one is just okay. The big problem is they've nearly abandoned the joy and impatience that drives album #1; I hope and believe they'll bounce back on #3. The irony is "Brick" does not at all represent the spirit of BFF and yet it has been sadistically over-played on radios across the states. Anyhoo, as long as Frankie Goes to Hollywood refuses to reunite, this'll have to suffice. By the way, the BFF live show is probably the best I've ever seen (just behind Moxy Fruvous).