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The Shadow
Joe Nguyen, editor
Feb. 2, 2007

It’s hard to live in the shadow of legend.

Since his arrival into the music scene, Sean Lennon has been in constant comparison with his famous father, John. Trying to follow The Beatles is no easy task.

Rather than trying, Sean has found his own musical niche. His latest album, Friendly Fire, is a collection of soft, laid-back tunes blended with Lennon’s unique nasally voice.

Friendly Fire opens with “Dead Meat,” which begins with a gentle piano melody mixed with high-pitched bells creating a carnival-like environment. When the other instruments enter, they continue the mild, relaxing sound. A bit ironic as the Lennon’s lyrics sound more menacing than peaceful: Dead meat/Don't you know you're dead meat?/You just messed with the wrong team/Better not try and fall asleep now.

It has been speculated that Lennon’s breakup with long-time girlfriend Bijou Phillips inspired many of his songs and “Parachute” is one of the many that fits this theme on the album. The teetering guitar plucks, bright synth strikes and fluffy background vocals create an airy, dreamlike sound.

Never able to escape comparisons with his father, Lennon embraces them in “Headlights.” The song features a steady guitar rhythm and off-beat claps. The deep, stringy synth play good harmony with Lennon’s vocals.

The only problem with the CD is that it’s less than 40 minutes long. This is quite short in modern standards. But the question is, if the album was longer, would it be as good?

It took eight years for Lennon to release his sophomore solo album. Although it took a painful breakup to inspire its creation, Friendly Fire has given him a push to be known as an innovative musician and not just John’s son. >> continue to Triumvirate

Joe Nguyen is the editor in chief for asiaXpress.com. You can contact Joe via e-mail at joe@asiaxpress.com.