The old adage that says you can't go home again rings especially true for artists and musicians attempting to return to their artistic roots. Ironically, it's also what makes the Bee Gees' journey back to their '60s sen... more »sibilities feel like a gratifying, if unassuming, triumph. Indeed, while the songs here are possessed of the innate soulfulness and melodic flair familiar from their youth, they've wisely allowed disparate musical elements from their dizzying three-decade-plus career to season this collection, giving it a satisfying pan-generational sense that's as rewarding as it is rare. The title track sets the tone, with the brothers trading verses against a spare acoustic guitar and drum-kit backdrop. It's a bracing reminder that the Gibb brothers' locked-in harmony remains one of pop's enduring sonic archetypes. While they've never completely shaken the cultural stereotyping of their late '70s megaplatinum doses of disco fever, there are few remnants of it here, save for the insistent drum loop. Given their longevity and pervasive insider influence, it's sometimes a historical riddle to figure out who's influencing whom, from the distinct ELO-isms of Robin's "She Keeps on Coming" and Maurice's "Man in the Middle" to Barry's singular balladry on "Loose Talk Costs Lives." And lest anyone think it's strictly a '60s-'70s love fest, the Gibbs toss in a good-natured nod to Tin-Pan Alley ("Technicolor Dreams") and even a spirited, if somewhat ham-handed, post-modern romp ("Voice in the Wilderness"). More than anything, it's a record that argues that home is but a state of mind, and that the Bee Gees have learned more than a few things on the way back. --Jerry McCulley« less
The old adage that says you can't go home again rings especially true for artists and musicians attempting to return to their artistic roots. Ironically, it's also what makes the Bee Gees' journey back to their '60s sensibilities feel like a gratifying, if unassuming, triumph. Indeed, while the songs here are possessed of the innate soulfulness and melodic flair familiar from their youth, they've wisely allowed disparate musical elements from their dizzying three-decade-plus career to season this collection, giving it a satisfying pan-generational sense that's as rewarding as it is rare. The title track sets the tone, with the brothers trading verses against a spare acoustic guitar and drum-kit backdrop. It's a bracing reminder that the Gibb brothers' locked-in harmony remains one of pop's enduring sonic archetypes. While they've never completely shaken the cultural stereotyping of their late '70s megaplatinum doses of disco fever, there are few remnants of it here, save for the insistent drum loop. Given their longevity and pervasive insider influence, it's sometimes a historical riddle to figure out who's influencing whom, from the distinct ELO-isms of Robin's "She Keeps on Coming" and Maurice's "Man in the Middle" to Barry's singular balladry on "Loose Talk Costs Lives." And lest anyone think it's strictly a '60s-'70s love fest, the Gibbs toss in a good-natured nod to Tin-Pan Alley ("Technicolor Dreams") and even a spirited, if somewhat ham-handed, post-modern romp ("Voice in the Wilderness"). More than anything, it's a record that argues that home is but a state of mind, and that the Bee Gees have learned more than a few things on the way back. --Jerry McCulley
Jason Stein | San Diego, CA United States | 04/25/2001
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Before Hanson and the boy bands there was the Bee Gees, and "This Is Where I Came In" shows us where the newer models got their ideas from. Although the brothers Gibb are still loathed in some circles, I have always been a biased fan of their music and harmonies. "This Is Where I Came In" certainly has some great harmonies like "Sacred Trust", "Deja Vu", "Walking On Air", "Embrace" and the title track. I found this cd more catchy than 1997's "Still Waters", and found the Bee Gees incorporating their past achievements with new ideas. For example, "Loose Talk Cost Lives" reminded me of "How Deep Is Your Love", "This Is Where I Came In" reminded me of "New York Mining Disaster", and "Technicolor Dreams" was a step in a completely unexplored direction--ragtime jazz. I bought the UK import with the two extra tracks: "Just In Case" and "Promise The Earth"--both worth having. There were even a couple of rockers this time out with "She Keeps On Coming" and "Voice In The Wilderness". It seems there is something for everyone on "This Is Where I Came In". Once again, I suspect that the record company and the public will overlook this solid recording because it's the Bee Gees and because most people who listen to popular music think that musicians over 50 have lost their edge, and therefore, are no longer viable. I disagree, and it's a shame that the music made on this disc will receive little exposure or acknowledgement. As a fan of the Bee Gees, I expect "This Is Where I Came In" to suffer the same fate as 1993's "Size Isn't Everything", 1991's "High Civilization", 1989's "One", 1987's "ESP" and 1981's "Living Eyes". If you are a fan, "This Is Where I Came In" is worth owning, and if you are just finding out about the Bee Gees it's worth looking into."
An Impressive Mélange of Old and New Sounds
Sandra Brazier | Beautiful New Hampshire, USA | 05/12/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Although I didn't experience the instant fascination with this album that I have with previous ones, it is truly delightful. Just the fact that the brothers have produced yet another album, with more new ideas, enhanced with hints of the past, is quite amazing. Not only do they thrill us with new sounds, but there is a continuity which reflects their past works that is sure to please every devoted Bee Gee fan. The whimsy of "This is Where I Came In" is such a familiar quality of each album. The melody of "Wedding Song" is so reminiscent of the beautiful song "Stay Alone" of "Now Voyager". The typical sensitivity and gentleness that the brothers frequently express so profoundly in their work is expressed once again in the spectacular "Just in Case". "She Keeps on Coming" reminds us of the very early days in the Bee Gees' careers. And I dare anyone to try NOT singing along with the catchy "Sacred Trust". Although I don't care for "Technicolor Dreams" it is definitely a new sound for our very talented trio. If this incredible showcase of talent is not enough for you, don't forget the wonderful enhancements of the CD and the beautiful photographs of the lyric booklet. Enjoy!"
Welcome Back Bee Gees!!! Kudos!!!
J. Anderson | 05/02/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I usually listen to edgier stuff, like Elliott Smith, Elastica and Garbage, but I confess that I have always liked the Bee Gees songs that made the charts. Well, I watched that special on A&E a few nights ago and I was AMAZED at their songwriting talent. They have written hits for Dolly Parton, Dionne Warwick...many songs that I had no idea were penned by them! So I ran right out and bought this album... I am happy to say that the recording and arrangements are beautifully done, and it gives me so much joy to hear an old band like this still creating such thoughtful and inventive stuff. "This is Where I Came In" is a great song all around (MORE acoustic next time, Bee Gees!!!!) and definitely ranks up there with some of the best music being done today. The first five tracks are all great. Some of the schmaltzier stuff ("Wedding Day") makes me a little twitchy, but the tunes are interesting and carefully crafted, and you have to remember that the BeeGees have always been known for romantic ballads like this. Overall, I consider this CD a sublime achievement from one of rock's (in my mind) most prolific, underrated and creative groups."
THE BEE GEES LATEST IS A TRIUMPH!!!!
luvreigns1974 | Sacramento, CA USA | 04/24/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"WOW!!!!!! I must say I am thrilled about this new release by one of the most legendary music groups! This new cd by THE BEE GEES is stellar!!! I am very picky with my music but every track on this album is excellent! From the opening chorus of THIE IS WHERE I CAME IN to the closing track, VOICE IN THE WILDERNESS, this cd is so great! Anyone who enjoys this group MUST RUN OUT and buy this album! You will enjoy it! Plus, if you purchase it at certain stores, there is a bonus live cd with 3 songs....I'VE GOT TO GET A MESSAGE TO YOU, RUN TO ME, and TOO MUCH HEAVEN!!! Enjoy this cd and THIS IS WHERE I CAME IN!"
BeeGees Give Another Great Album!!
Priscilla Stafford | Yokohama, Japan | 09/15/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"BeeGees lates album "This Is Where I Came In" show that they'll always be the greatest! You would just love listening to their music in your car with the volume cranked up and the windows down. Terrific cruising music!! Here are my few favorite songs from this album:This Is Where I Came In: I like the strong drums and guitar in this song. Sacred Trust: Lovely song with a good beat. I love it when the music fades out and you hear only the nice harmonizing voices of Barry, Robin, and Mauric Gibb.Man In The Middle: It has a sort of "Moody Blues" type of feel, with neat synthesizer and drums. Chorus is really nice.Walking On Air: Another song which reminds me of "Moody Blues". The lyrics are real nice, with words like "I think I'm walking on air, so much in love I can't tell what I'm saying..."Embrace: The words are so good in the song "Embrace". Whenever I listen to this album with my family, we always have to listen to this song.And practically all of the songs are fantastic with such good lyrics. If you're a BeeGees fan, this is an album that you have to buy and listen to!"