Like so many people in 1997, I was mesmerized by the release of Urban Hymns by The Verve which was a beautiful example of modern psychedelic rock which was led by the massive hit single "Bittersweet Symphony" which permeated through the music scene and many commercials including the famous Nike ones. Not only did they lure such companies like Nike with their unique sound but they also were endeared by critics and fans who embraced them as a new direction of music. Unfortunately though, it seems the fame plus previous differences took its toll as a bitter feud developed between two of the band members and, eventually, the band decided to split apart. They tried various solo projects in which the lead singer Richard Ashcroft released a couple of solo albums which failed to establish him as a solo artist and it seemed that that he and his band mates were going to be another footnote in pages of music history. Fortunately for us though, the members of Verve were able to put their differences aside and come together and work on a fourth studio album which is aptly titled Forth.
Forth can be best described as somewhat of a middle ground between the more conventional rock structure of Urban Hymns and the more freeform sonic style of Northern Soul but with a more polished sound that is filled experimentalism and organization. The lyrics are still as thoughtful and relevant as before while disco beats and light strumming mesh together which adds to the listening pleasure. Forthdoes seem a little less accessible than Urban Hymns but that is understandable since the earlier album is such a classic. As far as the tracks on this album go, most are hold up well on their own and are great examples of how talented this band really is. The first track "Sit and Wonder" is toned-up well with a squealing riff and an abundant synth orchestra while Ashcroft's vocals are authoritative, starting things off with intrepid belting over a funky bassline. Following that is the single "Love Is Noise" which is captivating and pulsates with sweaty energy while a club beat courses through the song and definitely a throwback to "Bittersweet Symphony." Other tracks stretch out The Verve's songwriting even more like "Judas" which is a blossoming and striking tune that ought to be a single with its swelling symphonic force. Then there is the delicate "Valium Skies" that finds Ashcroft channeling Liam Gallagher while creating an inspirational bittersweet love ballad. Other tracks like "Noise Epic" however don't feel the constraints of time and contain that special inner spark which was evident in their previous releases.
Some songs though do not meet expectation such as "Rather Be" which seems sluggish at listening even though its piano-lined gospel-tinged backup vocals have a certain appeal. "I See Houses" sounds more like a solo project from Ashcroft with its meandering sound which leaves the track sounding a bit apathetic, while "Columbo" doesn't seem to justify its existence on this album and seems to ramble on before finding itself after four minutes. "Appalachian Springs" also feels out of place on Forth by closing out the album with an escalating 7-minute ballad that really makes no sense or has any real direction to it which is a shame considering its potential at times to shine musically. Even though Forth does contain these missteps, they don't overshadow the tracks that do work on this album and definitely keeps the album enjoyable.
While there is some rust and some flaws to this album, Forth is still a great comeback for The Verve and shows they still have the knack for making music that test the boundaries and goes forward. Still though, when compared to recent releases by Oasis and Coldplay, it seems they are still stuck in behind and need something a bit more to set themselves apart and to move up to the front which they have the potential to do as long as there are no more conflicts within the group. It is definitely good to hear the original line-up together and making the beautiful music they are capable of doing. The song structure and writing is as good as before and there's enough experimenting here to show signs of progress and hopefully we will see more in the future. While this might not have a defining moment or song for The Verve like Urban Hymns did, it definitely has its own merits and showcases the brilliant talent that this band has. I definitely think that anyone who loves gorgeous psychedelic should definitely give it a listen.
Released August 26, 2008 on Mri Records.
