kpt, I think bands' sound changing is a tricky topic. Obviously good bands will have something unique which is what endears them to us, and it's sad and shit when they lose that special something. At the same time, you can't expect or want them to just remain static and not develop at all.
If a band intentionally decided to write more poppy music for monetary reasons then I agree that we should scorn such a move, but the tricky thing is discerning whether or not this is the situation. In the case of Modest Mouse, I think it's more likely just a reflection of Isaac's changing world view.
If you look at his early career, he's driving round the PNW, he's living in a flooded house with his parents divorced, he's questioning the point of his existence. These emotions are reflected in the rough emotional early music.
In later albums though, it seems evident to me that his world view has changed. Lyrics from songs such as "Float On", "We've Got Everything" and "People as Places as People" really suggest to me that he's mellowed out a lot and moved to a state of being grateful for everything he's got and loving of the people around him.
If you're not filled with doubt and longing it's ingenuous and fake to keep writing music as if you are, just to keep the original fans happy. Personally, I'm happy for Isaac if my interpretation's correct and he really has found himself at a good point in life.
kpt, I think bands' sound changing is a tricky topic. Obviously good bands will have something unique which is what endears them to us, and it's sad and shit when they lose that special something. At the same time, you can't expect or want them to just remain static and not develop at all.
If a band intentionally decided to write more poppy music for monetary reasons then I agree that we should scorn such a move, but the tricky thing is discerning whether or not this is the situation. In the case of Modest Mouse, I think it's more likely just a reflection of Isaac's changing world view.
If you look at his early career, he's driving round the PNW, he's living in a flooded house with his parents divorced, he's questioning the point of his existence. These emotions are reflected in the rough emotional early music.
In later albums though, it seems evident to me that his world view has changed. Lyrics from songs such as "Float On", "We've Got Everything" and "People as Places as People" really suggest to me that he's mellowed out a lot and moved to a state of being grateful for everything he's got and loving of the people around him.
If you're not filled with doubt and longing it's ingenuous and fake to keep writing music as if you are, just to keep the original fans happy. Personally, I'm happy for Isaac if my interpretation's correct and he really has found himself at a good point in life.