State

There seems to be a mild controversy regarding this latest Todd album, and while I agree that he uses a different sonic approach, the music is pure Rundgren. I liked this album on the first listen and I absolutely loved it a few weeks later. Pairing the release with the Live Metropole concert only exemplifies how unique and consistently unique TR's music has always been. People reference AWATS in some of the reviews and wish he'd return to that style -- well, STATE does that. People want more of LIARS, STATE does that too! I've been a fan since the first Nazz album and I've been a professional musician since then as well. I can count on TR to produce music that he's proud to share. I'm looking forward to more, Todd. Keep it up.

I wasn't expecting to get this Amsterdam concert on CD or to enjoy it so much. It also exists on YouTube where it can be seen as well as heard. The sound quality is superb and the richness and depth of instruments it adds to Todd's music is delightful. The blaring horn section replaces synthesizer on the opening track, Another Life, and this marks the beginning of a respectful and thoughtful treatment of the original music. Todd's voice has grown deeper over the years but it commands this orchestra well. Initially I was worried that a symphonic treatment of Todd's music would be an exercise in grandiosity and pomp (as it has been for other major artists). Instead I come away with the feeling that this concert was meant to be in every way and is a fitting variation on Todd's ever-growing and eclectic variety of renditions of his classic music.

Todd makes me love music because he is so innovative in the way he creates the compositions he has throughout his career. This one takes you to new musical horizons while still keeping the familiar Todd sound. The second CD in the deluxe edition was such a pleasant surprise. It was unlike anything you have ever heard Todd do live before. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!

There's a love/hate relationship fans are having with State and it's been fascinating to watch.State is less of a departure than some would suggest. A long-time fan will recognize keyboard sounds harkening back to the Initiation album, percussion and synth effects reminiscent of Healing, rhythm patterns first explored on Ever Popular, even vocal stylings first found on With a Twist. Many the song structures are classic verse/chorus/bridge things Todd has always done.But all that familiarity is filtered through the aesthetic of today's current--dub step, techno, electronica, industrial. If that's not your thing, this ain't your album. No harm, no foul, no worries.And yet, there's so much here to admire and enjoy:"Imagination" starts off with a slow, powerful build of keyboards leading into heavily distorted, drawn out guitar lines. The vocal is buried somewhat in the mix, creating an evocative wall of sound. I really like this track."Serious" apes James Brown, then couples that with some serious techno and fun lyrics for a song that's as danceable as anything Todd has ever done."In My Mouth" is a weird blend of electronica and bossa nova. Haunting, unexpected and beautiful."Ping Me" is classic Todd. Crystal clear, emotive vocals over a bed of keyboards leading into a powerful, fuzzy chorus. Its somewhat clichéd subject matter led me to expect disliking it. I was wrong."Angry Bird" is the comedy track Todd always throws in. Very heavy techno sound. It's clever and has some cool passages in it, but I suspect it'll get skipped more often than not."Smoke" is a stellar track. It reminds me of something Everything But the Girl might do. It would fit nicely on the Liars album. I love this song."Collide-A-Scope" is another track I was prepared to hate. This one features the most chaotic rhythm bed, and yet it all comes together sweetly. Restrained verses are punctuated with a chorus that is almost abrasive. A strangely memorable track."Something From Nothing" is another future classic. Featuring guest vocals on the bridge, it is a beautiful, haunting song."Party Liquor" should be just a silly throwaway, but it's somehow something more. Again, the techno feel is strong and it's utterly danceable."Sir Reality" closes the album perfectly. Sprawling guitars. Interesting lyrics. A range of moods. And a seriousness that adds weight to everything that proceeded it.One word about the special edition version with the live disk featuring The Metropole Orchestra. Even if you hate the State CD, you will absolutely love this. Todd's voice sounds as great today as it did 30 years ago. His high notes on Bag Lady send shivers. All your favorites are here, interpreted in ways that are loyal to the originals while giving plenty of space for the orchestra to stretch out and do its thing. You can also view this entire concert online. The video itself is comprised of shots taken from 30 cell phones in the audience. Lots of fun to watch. Even better to hear.For the haters of this album, it's cool to go ahead and skip it. But those interested in taking the journey with an open mind will certainly be well rewarded.

I find "State" to be another great release from the master and yet another excellent chapter in TR history in a style I didn't see coming. I'm not one that's "into" the electronica scene but this is done wonderfully by one of THE best artists of all time. The 2nd disc features the metropole orchestra and is completely different than the first disc...a 'greatest hits' performed live with one of THE best orchesTRas in the world.Excellent mixBUY THIS NOW