Jane's Addiction - 'Strays'

[namkcuR]

I listened to this record for the first time in a long time today, and I had forgotton how good it is. The big single, 'Just Because', is just explosive alternative rock start to finish. 'Riches', 'Price I Pay', 'Superhero', 'To Match The Sun', and especially the ballad 'Everybody's Friend' are all kick ass.

It's just a thoroughly intense and interesting record. It's a shame JA can never keep it together. There aren't that many rock bands still around(outside of decades-old establishments) that really know how to harness the rock 'attitude', and JA definitely knew how.

And Dave Navarro is really one of the most underappreciated rock guitarists around.

 

[UberBeaver]

I am of the opinion that Jane's Addiction were the greatest rock band to come from the States. I consider "Three Days" to be the greatest rock song ever written, and "Then She Did" isn't far behind. Incredible considering they are on the same album.

"Strays" was a pleasant surprise for me. I half expected a cash in of catchy singles with a couple of hooks and a whole lot of filler. Instead they put out a solid record. I don't think it's a 10 like Ritual and Nothing Shocking, but it's certainly a solid 8 - 8.5.

The original lineup contained 4 brilliant musicians. All of whom are wildly underrated, especially Stephen Perkins who is one of rock's premier drummers. Eric A wrote incredible, rhythmic bass lines that Perkins complimented perfectly, and Navarro filled in those songs with unselfish, flawless guitar work. And few singers could use their voice as an instrument like Perry.

Vive le Addiction!

 

[BVS]

The weakest of JA albums, but it had some moments...

 

[lazarus]

Not as bad as I dreaded, but not as great as I was hoping for.

It should be noted that Eric Avery was NOT on this reunion album. And although he may have been the least important of the four members, it appears his contribution may have been larger than originally thought.

Personally, I'll take either of the first two Porno For Pyros albums over Strays.

And no love for the original Jane's self-titled? My Time, Whores, Trip Away, 1%, and that phenomenal cover of Rock & Roll segueing into Sympathy For the Devil?

I couldn't even tell you which of the first three Jane's albums are my fav, because it changes every time I put a different one on the stereo.

 

[UberBeaver]

The XXX album is great, but I don't think it stacks up to Ritual or Nothing Shocking. I still prefer it to Strays though.