Adam Green - Minor Love Album Review

Review of Adam Green's new album Minor Love released through Rough Trade.

'Minor Love' is the sixth solo album from Adam Green, co-founder of anti folk group The Moldy Peaches.

If you were to believe everything you read about Green, you'd expect this album to be full of arrogant swagger and misogynic references. Well, it's nice to report that this isn't in fact the case.

Opening track 'Breaking Locks' sets up the direction for most of the album; it's simple, direct and more or less relies solely on Green's vocal ability. 'Give Them A Token' and 'Buddy Bradley' continue in a similar vein, with the addition of accompanying drums. They both have simple arrangements, which presumably are intended to showcase Green's vocals. And this could prove the sticking point to the success of this album.

Green's vocals are an acquired taste; they have never really succeeded in achieving complete wide appeal and this album is unlikely to change that. However, the tracks are delivered much more tenderly and measured than some of his previous songs, which could attract some new fans this time around.

'What Makes Him So Bad' was released on Green's own website for fans to download for free and should have given those who follow Green a great idea of what to expect from the full album; it's fair to say, if they liked their freebie, they'll like this fourteen-track record.

'Stadium Soul' is a relaxed affair, with a little use of synths that add something extra to the track, compared to some of the more drum-heavy songs on the album. Apparently Green attempted to play all the instruments on the record, only allowing a carefully-selected chosen few session musicians into the studio. If this is true, Green does a good job.

With tracks such as 'Boss Inside' and 'Castles and Tassels', you cannot help but think there is already something similar out there. However, the more raw 'Oh Shucks' indicates Green can still make some really interesting music if he's in the mood for doing so.

Overall 'Minor Love' gives the impression it has been another labour of love for Green. By all accounts, he is an interesting fellow and this comes across in the record. The lyrics take on an optimistic slant for the most part, only every now and again straying into darker territory. Whilst some tracks surpass others in their quality, there's a lack of stand-alone tracks here; it works better as an album, rather than a collection of singles. But you get the feeling that's exactly what Green envisaged for this record, anyway.

Rating: 6/10

Katy Ratican