Josiah Reynolds's Album Reviews
If you're expecting another Forever Changes from Four Sail, or even just another psychedelic work, then you've come to the wrong place. Four Sail may not have the sound or emotional and poetic impact of its predecessor, but purely in regards to quality, it holds up.
Four Sail drifts away from the surrealistic lyrics, more immediate songwriting and orchestral arrangements of Love's most famous work and opts instead for a focus on instrumental showcases and hard rock. The style and sound of Four Sail is of its own, however, as it has an undefinable feel to it unlike any album I've heard. Gone are the original Love members; all that remains is band leader Arthur Lee. Thankfully, Arthur brought along some seriously talented musicians who each make a strong impression with their individual instruments. The bass, drums and electric guitar all match each other in strength. The songs often drift off into extended improvisation, which is something I'm rarely a fan of, but almost always do they keep my attention the way through.
What's most important are the songs, and at this point at least, Arthur Lee's songwriting abilities were still a force to be reckoned with. Every song on here is superb.
I recommend Four Sail for any rock fan. Even if it doesn't sound like it's your cup of tea, give it a couple chances just to make sure. It's an album that deserves a lot more recognition.
-9/10
Four Sail drifts away from the surrealistic lyrics, more immediate songwriting and orchestral arrangements of Love's most famous work and opts instead for a focus on instrumental showcases and hard rock. The style and sound of Four Sail is of its own, however, as it has an undefinable feel to it unlike any album I've heard. Gone are the original Love members; all that remains is band leader Arthur Lee. Thankfully, Arthur brought along some seriously talented musicians who each make a strong impression with their individual instruments. The bass, drums and electric guitar all match each other in strength. The songs often drift off into extended improvisation, which is something I'm rarely a fan of, but almost always do they keep my attention the way through.
What's most important are the songs, and at this point at least, Arthur Lee's songwriting abilities were still a force to be reckoned with. Every song on here is superb.
I recommend Four Sail for any rock fan. Even if it doesn't sound like it's your cup of tea, give it a couple chances just to make sure. It's an album that deserves a lot more recognition.
-9/10
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