Carmen's Masterpiece
MF Regan | Ontario, Canada | 11/04/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"
I was a huge Raspberries fan (unfortunately discovering the group 'after' they had disbanded). They had offered so much in talent, it seemed unbelievable that they could be ignored or denied the success they should have found. For Eric Carmen to rise (momentarily) from those ashes was remarkable.
Boats Against The Current was his masterpiece and also, strangely, the one that stalled his career. There was a conflict of interest with the origional producer and Carmen had to take over, becoming producer, as well as the artist.
The record went over budget and I personally think what really stalled his career was press (at the time) that began to paint him as a prima dona (his first album succeeding- they looked at the time and the money being spent here, then suggesting that it was going to his head). I remember some reviewers actually comparing this to the worst 'middle of the road tripe' of the time.
This record was (and remains) a work of art. Apart from Take It or Leave It and She Did It (the commercial/catchy offerings), it's a moving, reflective piece of work that studies the real highs and lows of life, love and the pursuit of dreams. Carmen indicated at the time that it was inspired by Fitzgerald's writing. Well... it's inspired work all on its own, too.
If you're looking for something that you'll find yourself listening to, time and time again; work that will take on added meaning as each year passes, this is music to be heard.
Masterpiece isn't a word to be offered lightly. This remains a masterpiece- from the melodies, to the lyrics, to the arranging, musicianship and engineering.
I'll guarantee you- it will lead you to a wealth of work- from his Raspberries offerings, to other solo efforts with some real gems.
But this is the one that artists hope to make. And it's the one audiences should listen to."
A Special Album
Nathan Laney | Northern Cambria, PA USA | 01/16/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I have to go along with what everyone is saying here. This has been one of my favorite albums since around 1978. I found it cheap in a cut-out bin. I remember thinking at the time that it didn't take long for it to end up there. But, at the same time, I wasn't surprised either. Where I grew up, it seemed that most of the best music was unheard by most of the local folks. I came to learn that this phenomena wasn't occuring just locally, but was, in fact, a national event. I'm relieved that I never subscribed to the "if-it-ain't-on-the-radio-then-it-ain't-real-music" mentality. You can miss out on the best stuff this way! However, I do remember "She Did It" getting pretty generous airplay in my part of the world. It could be that this album sold fairly well then too. But, if it did nobody talked about it or played it at parties. I played it all the time! I still think it's one of the best albums I've ever heard! There was a pretty impressive list of guest musicians on it too.
As far as tracks, I don't think there's one bad song on this album. Of course, like all albums you have your favorites. "I Think I Found Myself," "Take It Or Leave It," and "She Did It" are, in order, the outstanding tracks for me. I wouldn't call this album entirely mellow as there are some intense spots. What I would call it is just a really good, probably even a great album."
Top notch from start to finish.
Erique Ecetera | New Brunswick, Canada | 10/09/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I agree with all reviewers that this album is one of the greatest going. I too picked this album up in what I believe may have been a "deleted" title bin as it had a "punch" hole at the corner of it so it was real cheap (it was so long ago I cannot remember the price). My primary reason for buying it was for the cut "She Did It" which was on the charts. But was I ever surprised when I heard it all. Back in the 60's as well as present, I get tired of hearing the same tunes day in/day out rotating daily. Why could we not have a station that could play stuff from great albums such as Boats Against The Current? It would keep our ears so fresh. It is really sad when some great music is not played and listeners miss the chance to hear more selections from different artists that never get heard unless you have the album personally. What a shame!!!!!
This Eric Carmen LP falls with greatness with artists like Peter Cetera. They are so great to hear from!!!!!!
Erique (Homer) Ecetera
"
Track Listings (8) - Disc #1