I think there’s an argument to be made that JEW does what they do better than anyone. Meaning, they stay in their lane, but that lane is always close to perfect. They’re definition of a band whose worst record (probably Damage?) is something similar bands can only dream of putting out. I also think that they’re unique in that most bands who were like them from their era have either totally shifted what they do, or broke up or are just nostalgia acts. Not that there isn’t diversity in their catalog, but steadily pumping out records that are immediately recognizable as Jimmy Eat World has really worked. Personally, I like the consistency of this band as much as I like anything else. There are so many bands who surprise me and disappoint me, but never them. They’re like a nice meal with old friends and family; they’re like Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners. I know what I’m getting, and I just couldn’t be happier about it.
If they go "heavy" I want them to do Congratulations-style heavy, or Pass the Baby, not Criminal Energy. But I'd actually prefer they lean into their (experimental at least for them) pop side, like 555, or some of the stuff they did on Congratulations, or even Integrity Blues (the song).
In all honesty, I trust them for whatever comes next- different or more of the same. I've always enjoyed the songwriting, whatever sound/tone they employ and think that's something that carries through all their music. I have my preferences tonally (Clarity, Stay on My Side, Surviving, Damage, Integrity Blues) but I also just love the sincerity and identity behind the songs, if that makes sense. If they did something out of left field, I'd probably still dig it because I doubt it'd lose the Jimmy Eat World signature vibe, if that makes sense.
I’d be interested in seeing them circle back to something a little more detailed or nuanced, gentler and more layered. I’m thinking of like Table For Glasses. maybe more loops like they did on that record but I love Surviving I should say
Love to see more stuff in the vein of Recommit/Half Heart; it has that perfect balance between the polished sound and the darkness/nuance of Futures and Clarity
I always feel weird hearing them do these vibes - like, they do them well but I associate Jim's voice with mostly a wholesome poppy vibe so I don't really buy it when he goes into this space. (Which is entirely my projection onto them haha) edit: then again Disintegration is one of my all time favorites so maybe I don't know what i'm talking about
YOOOOOOOO JIMMY EAT WOLD - PHOENIX SESSIONS Getting that shirt and the 3-show bundle ASAP, early bird pricing until January 11th!
Hit the purchase button for the 3-pack so fast I think I went back in time a little. Psyched to finally see "Congratulations" live.
Yea, I love their more layered instrumentation. Clarity isn't my favorite JEW album overall (still among the top of course), but it has some of my favorite instrumental moments for sure.
Bought my mask/ticket bundle for the Phoenix Sessions. It felt good to put some Friday night plans on the calendar.
hello just want to revive this thread quickly and say that as the weather very slowly transitions into longer days and sunshine, Jimmy is pushing all the right buttons. One Mil is just so lovely for my surroundings.