STEREOPHONICS: Kind (ROCK): review / opinion to read on Music Waves

Many bands started by releasing albums with a certain underground identity, with flaws of course but with the charm of spontaneity, to give in to the sirens of the mainstream, diluting the interest born from these first productions. The list is long: Coldplay, Imagine Dragons, Muse... and Stereophonics. It has to be said that the twenty-fifth year of existence is coming, the band has never slowed down the rhythm of releasing an album every two years, "Kind" being the eleventh. This could explain the impression of privileging quantity over quality.

Under this cover, with its almost childishly coloured paint, are hidden ten tracks, all very well interpreted and composed but lacking an energetic start. If the album starts well with 'I Just Wanted The Goods' (as do we!) in which the Stereophonics find the alternative spirit of the beginnings, this one disintegrates in favour of pleasant compositions in the form of electro-acoustic ballads more US FM rock than British. These compositions have charm but that's not enough to fall in love with them.

Too many sweet titles follow one another until 'Bust This Town' which gives a little hope in front of this excess of glucose, however for a short time. "Kind" is actually aptly named because everything on it is far too cute and goes against what defines rock: something subversive and free. Some of the tracks, however, attract the ear like the very minimalist 'Restless Mind' which sounds very Springsteen with a beautiful harmonica supporting the melodic line and the choruses that bring an undeniable plus.

"Kind" is certainly pleasant to listen to, but the tracks are too clean to arouse interest. Stereophonics too parsimoniously goes back to the alternative rock that was its original essence and is locked in a pop rock as accessible as it is forgettable. - Official website

STEREOPHONICS

KIND

AUTRE LABEL

ROCK