Album Details

• Artist: Silversun Pickups
• Album: Swoon
• Label: Dangerbird
• Year of Release: 2009
• ME Rating:
• Reviewed by: trismus on 2009-03-27

Media

I jumped on the Silversun Pickups bandwagon so late that the rear bumper smacked me on the chin.  Carnavas came out in 2006 and I didn't discover the band until early 2008.  I missed them coming to town and, by the time I was geeking about them, they had almost become old news in the music circles I frequent.  That said, it has still felt like an eternity for me since we've been given some new Silversun Pickups material.  So I can't imagine the agony experienced by those who've been with the band since Pikul. 

I also can't imagine what those street teamers will be thinking about Swoon.  I suppose if you've liked the band so far, you've no reason to dislike their latest offering.  However, I can't see much reason to celebrate it either.  Don't misunderstand, it's quality music and typical Silversun Pickups.  That's just it though, the band hasn't really stretched their creative wings on this one.  So little, in fact, Swoon sounds like a collection of inferior Carnavas B-sides.  

There's nothing wrong with establishing your sound and residing in the same tonal world, in fact there's something to be said for consistency.  You just don't want to end up like AC/DC and make the same album 89 times.  Carnavas cemented Silversun Pickups as a fantastic indie band.  It proved that they had something very special to offer the scene.  Swoon should've taken that a step further and shown that same scene that they can progress while maintaining their signature static sound.  Unfortunately, that isn't the case and it leaves you wondering if we've already seen, not only the best, but all that Silversun Pickups has to offer.

User Reviews and Comments

on 2009-05-06 mountaloha Said:

I slightly take back my previous statement. This album is really good. I guess it takes more than one listen to come to a solid conclusion about an album.
Rating: 7/10

Review:

on 2009-04-30 dscanland Said:

It's strange because I just listened to Swoon not expecting much and I came away quite enjoying it. I think it would still be a big impact if you had never heard Silversun Pickups. Regardless, it's an equal album to their previous. There doesn't seem to be as many hooks and such on Swoon but the musicianship is there. Songs seems so much fuller and well thought out. You don't need hooks all the time, even though I am a big fan of being hooked immediately. Check out Swoon and formulate your own opinion. That's the best with these established acts. Still, Silversun Pickups make a good replacement for Smashing Pumpkins as far as I'm concerned.
Rating: 8/10

on 2009-04-30 mountaloha Said:

I think that review was pretty spot on. I'm a fan of SSPU, but it just seems like they can do so much more. They have a good sound. It's catchy and easy to listen to, but I feel like there should be more musically from this band.
Rating: 7/10

on 2009-04-20 hstisgod Said:

Dont stress, you're not the only one who missed these guys. I've not gotten a chance to check out this album, from what Im reading its not that impacting but seemingly worth an attempt. I couldnt agree with you more... while its respectable to stay consistent in a sound for 30 years its bland. good review, I'll be back to rate.
Not Rated

on 2009-04-19 X_NaStY Said:

I'm really getting into this disc. Now, granted, I haven't really delved into their old stuff too much so I haven't gotten tired of their sound. I like the single Panic Switch and another song called The Royal We. So, Carnavas is better than this one? I'll have to pick that one up too.
Rating: 9/10