Gonna be honest here. I’ve been listening to a band I have no idea what to do with. Like, at all. It was suggested by a friend, and so far outside of my normal scope of interest that I just got nothing.

I guess this is to expected when I’m suddenly tossed a French Pop CD. Phoenix, Alphabetical. When it first kicked on, I scoffed. It sounded like a boy band. While Savage Garden may forever hold a place in my heart, all in all Boy Bands leave me running for the hills.

But I kept listening. And listening.

Then I got a PS3 and got distracted like mad.

But now I’m back, and I’m still confused by Phoenix. I certainly don’t dislike the album. But at the same time it hasn’t overly interested me, on a long term basis. I’m not even indifferent to it…which is making me a tidge confused.

I know what I think about this album will come to mind at some point, but I fear it’s one of those albums that suddenly become clear in two or three years. One day I’ll play it on a whim, and then it’ll all click together.

One thing for sure, though, is that I like the funk element that runs through the album.

The vocals are more level than I’m used to, and i feel like the vocals are really what’s preventing me from really getting behind this album. The music is eclectic and runs the gambit of instruments and angles, but the vocals always seem to stay the same.

At least one good yell would help me make up my mind. Alas. No yelling at all. No falsettos. No growling, shrieking, or grunting. Just smooth boy band like vocals.

Some of the songs seem to work with this smooth even singing, Victim of the Crime comes to mind. The song is overall smooth, so the smooth lyrics blend right in.

Honestly, that’s about as coherent as I can make my thoughts on this band. For three weeks now I’ve been trying.

What to Take Away?

I am stumped, and unable to connect Phoenix to any other music in my collection. As such I’m having a hard time understanding what I thinks about it.

What to Expect?

Debilitation confusion, at least if you think anything like me.

What drink to pair it with?

A Rogue Chipotle Ale. I had one about a year ago. The jury is still out if it was something I’d like to experience again, and I’m still puzzled by it.

Favorite song?

Victim of the Crime, I think. but I don’t know. In three years when it finally clicks, I’ll let you know.