After 2002's "Sea Change" many Beck fans were completely confused as to who made the album because it was completely different from previous hits such as "Loser," "Devil's Haircut" and "Sexx Laws." "Guero" brings listeners back to the original Beck in terms of lyrics—an assortment of random words and lines meshed together that can be interpreted into a million different meanings or nothing at all.
Now, I've never described a Beck song as this, and I may never again, but some are surprisingly danceable. All the songs are filled with such distinct rhythms and beats, especially in "E-Pro," "Que Onda Guero," "Girl," "Black Tambourine" and "Scarecrow." The rest of the songs, however, do just as much with the music and sounds to create the overall image of the piece, it's easy to see yourself in a cool-kids night club listening to the latest and best of non-pop music. He's still his old self—a random romantic. — Kate Jacobson
Unless you have been in an ISO tank for the past decade, then you have undoubtedly at least heard of Beck. The indie-world's biggest success story really got started in 1993 with the hip-hop flavored slacker anthem "Loser" [from Mellow Gold], gained tremendous momentum with 1996's offbeat opus "Odelay," sustained such with 1998's funky "Mutations" and 1999's sexy "Midnite Vultures" and completely took off with 2002's acoustically cathartic "Sea Change." So, where does he go now? "Guero" takes Beck back to his quirky, leftfield hip-hop infused origins. The Dust Brothers are back on production, lending a nostalgic flavor for Beck fans of old. However, Jack White and his guitar make their presence known as well, giving this album a bit of an edge in that sense. As for the man himself, his lyrics concern popsicles, vegetable vans, spaceships and the like- his delivery is simultaneously quirky and sincere. The sum of the parts is a condensed version of Beck's discography thus far- the breadth is here, but the depth is not quite. Although I wouldn't say this album is disappointing, the endearing edge that initially hooks the listener is not as readily apparent as on his previous releases. Perhaps this is his intention, perhaps not. It is undoubtedly Beck and for this, I can't help but love it.
-- Herman Snell & Alex Slawson
More like this story
Support our reporting -- Follow the MFP.
