BEFORE AND AFTER SCIENCE

This is my favorite of the Eno vocal albums, and I think it perfectly marries his eccentric pop with his tranquil ambient style. The record is basically divided into to sides. The first one showcases quirky rock and pop, verging at times on New Wave and Post Punk. King's Lead Hat is an anagram of Talking Heads, whom Eno had produced, and their influence can be felt as well. Here more than ever, Eno's stream of consciousness approach to writing lyrics shines through, particularly on the bouncy Backwater, probably the catchiest tune on the album. What's remarkable is the underlying simplicity of these songs, yet through their arrangements they become wholly unique. Side two take a different approach, tending towards the contemplative and the ambient. Here He Comes is whimsical and melancholy. "Julie With..." is minimalist and peaceful. The next two tracks seem to get impossibly more laid back and tranquil, giving the impression of slowly drifting off to sleep. Finally, Spider and I closes the album. I consider this to be a perfect song, totally unrivaled in its beauty and serenity. Whenever I am feeling worn out or stressed, this song always makes me feel better. I would rate all of Eno's vocal albums as five star masterpieces, but this one remains my favorite, and anyone who loves music should at least give it a listen, or else risk missing out on something truly wonderful.