Ben Folds – Songs For Silverman

Give It Some Time

You’re just plain out of the loop if you didn’t know Ben Folds left his trio in 2000 to record the solo album, Rockin’ the Suburbs. In lieu of feeling dumb, consider yourself informed that the sophomore solo effort by Ben Folds, Songs for Silverman, is released and available. While musically complex, Folds has managed to outperform Suburbs on the piano while leaving lyrics and vocals at the wayside. There is little to instantly fall in love with, but with a little patience and TLC, you may find a few tracks worth canoodling. Folds tends to succeed most when writing love ballads. The combination of sweet, sentimental lyrics with delicate perfection on the piano makes for touching music. “Late,” a tribute to Elliot Smith, more or less fits this mold. It’s not overtly effusive, but everything corresponds while maintaining that soft nature. While lyrically sound, “Gracie,” a lullaby for his daughter, contains a hokey undertone that is so slight yet nevertheless manages to ruin the song.

On the flipside, “You To Thank,” includes impressive, engaging piano playing unmatched by anything previously released. While not bad in its entirety, you’ll be a smitten kitten if you can tune out the vocals. “Jesusland,” a total failure, sounds like something straight out of a Christopher Guest film – too comical to be true. Other complete failures include “Give Judy My Notice,” and “Prison Food.”

If you’re determined to love this album, keep listening and likely you will. If you didn’t like the Five or the solo Fold, or you just don’t give a rat’s ass, move on.