Review Summary: Their 2007 release “Beyond” is an indication that Dinosaur Jr. is still very much alive and out to achieve more.
From 1989 to 2007, rock music went through several major transformations. The grunge movement had a massive impact and eventually settled down, nu-metal gained popularity and died, and Lou Barlow and J Mascis didn’t record an album together. In 2007, let’s just say Dinosaur Jr. had something to prove. It had been nearly 20 years since band-mates J Mascis and Lou Barlow had played together; 20 years removed from indie rock sensation “You’re Living All Over Me.” Barlow and Mascis’ efforts developed the band into an immensely successful underground band with a defining sound. “You’re Living All Over Me” was distinctive of Dinosaur Jr.’s sound; heavily distorted and fuzzy guitars, low-grungy vocals, and other-worldly lead guitar. Their 2007 release “Beyond” is an indication that Dinosaur Jr. is still very much alive and out to achieve more.
So much has been said about J Mascis’s guitar playing. His melodic yet technical leads have propelled a great deal of Dinosaur Jr.’s success and have placed him among the all-time greats. On “Beyond” Mascis is no different, he shreds and wails on his guitar in such a way that makes your jaw drop. This holds true to nearly every track, and is especially significant on
Pick Me Up. On top of a grungy and powerful riff, Mascis fires out some of his best leads and concludes the track with a ridiculous two and half minute solo. Mascis’ presence is immediately felt in
This is All I Came to Do as he bends and flies his way through the intro and again, the solo section. This track is just one of many mid-tempo songs on the record; it is melodic and is brought to a new level by the guitar.
Unlike “You’re Living All Over Me,” “Beyond” shouts with accessibility and is somewhat less fuzzy than the 1987 release. You may find yourself loving the album in the middle of the first listen. Opener
Almost Ready is quite reminiscent of Dinosaur Jr. of old, making use of heavy distortion and crackling leads. Mascis’ grungy vocals are catchy from his opening lines, “I’ve been asking round if you were there, asking but I’m always scared,” to the track’s conclusion. Following song
Crumble is a highlight, constructed beautifully by an excellent riff and a melodic chorus.
I Got Lost strikes somewhat of a resemblance of “You’re Living All Over Me’s”
Poledo, which is different than the rest of the album.
I Got Lost is an open acoustic ballad in which, the drums and Mascis’s vocals stand out. This track may not be one of “Beyond’s” greatest moments, but is a break from the distortion and muscle of the other songs.
The gem of “Beyond” is undoubtedly
We’re Not Alone which is arguably the most melodic and beautiful track the record offers. Mascis’ vocals are top notch, and his leads are emotional and fitting. The guitar solo may be the best this album has seen, it is perfectly written and rich with emotion. Tracks like
We’re Not Alone are what elevates this album to outstanding status, especially for what was expected. This 2007 release should not be overlooked, for it is a tremendous effort that has returned Dinosaur Jr. to glory.
Recommended Tracks:
Almost Ready
Crumble
Pick Me Up
We’re Not Alone
Lightning Bulb
