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Brian Eno and David Byrne - Everything That Happens Will Happen Today
- “Folk electronic gospel” is how David Byrne describes the music of Everything That Happens Will Happen Today, his latest creation with renowned producer Brian Eno. Rolling Stone reports that the pair have not collaborated since 1981’s dance-rock My Life in the Bush of Ghosts, yet the two’s deep rooted relationship extends back to Byrne’s days with former band the Talking Heads, many of whose albums Eno also produced. Although the rest of the group is missing, Everything That Happens is reminiscent of the Talking Heads’ heavenly, dreamlike, melodious songs such as “This Must Be the Place (Naïve Melody).”
Despite rhythmic similarities, these melodies are not naïve, yet laced with a nostalgic wisdom sung with a light heart. On their Web site, Brian Eno writes, “I was surprised by how little attention Americans gave to their own great indigenous music. It was even slightly uncool, as though the endorsement of gospel necessarily implied support of its associated religious framework. . . . I began to see gospel music as conveying the act of surrender more than the act of worship; and this, of course, intrigued me, and has informed my music ever since.”
Gospel melodies are most predominant on tracks such as “Home” and “Life Is Long.” Brian Eno created the music, handling the instrumental aspect of the album and David Byrne wrote and sang the lyrics. Gospel themes are present in the lyrics as well; on “Life Is Long,” Byrne chants, “Life is long - if you give it way/ So stay, don't go - ‘cause I'm fading away/ Soul to soul - between you and me/ Chain me down - but I am still free.”
There are many lyrics on the album that could be interpreted as religious references, such as “city on a hill,” “great cosmic forces,” etc. However, the album gives no inclination as being Christian or labeling itself as religious rock. Fans looking for funky electronic rhythms reminiscent of Byrne’s past won’t be disappointed, tracks such as “Strange Overtones” and “Wanted for Life” capture listeners and force you to dance.
The overall tone of the album is uplifting, but it doesn’t overwhelm listeners and is certainly still “cool.” It is music that will be embraced by stoned Talking Heads fans yet appreciated by a gospel choir. Brian Eno and David Byrne are on tour this summer, and will woo the younger audience at festivals such as Bonnaroo. While the songs are new with a slightly different twist, Byrne and Eno’s signature groovy talent are the same. Everything That Happens Will Happen Today is an album worthy of worship.
Reviewer: Sophie Duensing
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Reviewer's Rating: 8.5
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Added: 12-Apr-2009
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