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Review by David Krell Ben Folds is an asshole. Pink hats, tight second-hand t-shirts, who does he think he is? Every other indie rocker? Unfortunately, he does and more importantly, he is. But that’s not why he is an asshole. Imagine if Mozart wrote some of his many complex and wonderful symphonies and then decided to simply repeat himself, but in a more simple manner, ultimately wasting the talent that was given to him. In other words, giving up. Folds spent over 10 minutes during one of his few US tour dates in Syracuse, NY playing a Dr. Dre song, which, despite being very entertaining and satisfying the needs of all the tag-a-longer's who came with friends, proved that his best days may be behind him. Not to say he is not a musical genius. Folds has written some of the most beautiful, heartfelt and genuine songs the history of music has ever heard. Songs such as “Evaporated,” which he performed as an encore this evening seemed to pierce through everyone in attendance. In fact, it was the only moment of pure silence during the entire show. “Philiosophy,” “Song for the Dumped,” Don’t Change your Plans for Me,” are all songs which should be heard by everyone. Unfortunately, the last great Ben Folds song was written about seven years ago. He did have a sweet new song about his daughter Gracie, which I admit, did bring about subtle signs of perculation, but not enough to bring back the faith. Ultimately, Fold’s songs are the same - a bit of Elton John and Billy Joel with a background in Pavement and Built to Spill- and his lyrics are worse (“There’s always someone cooler than you”), but the valued innocence remains, which, fortunately for Folds, will keep fans coming back. I certainly will; if only to see a glimpse of what he once was. |
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