The finest non-rip-roaring one-off of all time
Let's initially define what we're messing with here.
RIP-ROARING = Sonically Some Sort of Rawwk
NON-RIP-ROARING = Sonically Not So Much Some Sort of Rawwk.
With those important descriptions now abnormally defined, I can make three definitive declarations regarding Lincoln's 1997 self-titled album "Lincoln": First off, it is the only Lincoln recording EVER. Secondly, as significantly mentioned in the title, it is absolutely the best non-rip-roaring one-off of all time. For the third narrative, I will state that "Lincoln" is my favorite "pure pop" full length record, period, I've laid ears on. It is borderline criminal that Lincoln just disappeared into a cloud of dust after touring on this masterpiece. As much as I feel it was required that these gents deliver more music to the masses, I also feel it is imperative that fans of pop music and crafty songwriting wrap their heads around this release. Just because an album has many years behind it doesn't mean it doesn't fit in today's landscape or the even the next one. I will throw that argument out there until I am dead and buried.
When I mention repeatedly that the sole Lincoln record is of pop substance, it is meant in the most unpolluted sense. To be forewarned, you'll be encountering a quirky vocal, but I can't imagine it any other way, because we might not listen to the teacher's short stories and lessons, otherwise. Words and phrases to describe this group of songs would include clever, sarcastic, honest, smarmy, heartfelt, joyous, sing-along, memorable and downright addictive. This is the kind of pop where the candy IS NOT so sweet that you eventually get sick to your stomach. You can keep reaching into the bag for another piece. Yet, it is still not a low calorie treat. Each one of these compositions undeniably captures awkward situations and moods, but also depicts a bit of "life's obvious" using large colorful references to small social scenarios or providing subtle recognitions to amusing unspoken thoughts. The meticulous and purposeful phrasing combined with the eccentric vocal delivery does make the subject matter sound comical, but still WITHOUT compromising final quality. Every track is its own immature or surprisingly mature play on words. I decided against giving you specific lyrical examples, because it would ruin the verve of the listening experience.
Regardless of how I try to intricately define the Lincoln album, just understand that musically it is a pretty damn sunny piece of work. The culmination of these 12 tracks should be able to transport you into a pleasant mood. It has batted 1000 in bringing me happiness. My final interpretation is that you could almost call it a child-like adult record... similar to watching old school Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck cartoons as a grown up. It still speaks to you.
My recommendations when moving forth with your first encounter with Lincoln's "Lincoln" is as follows:
1) Prepare to have some of Lincoln's tidbits of musical excellence cemented in your skull for days. You might need to take time off from work for concentration recovery.
2) Find a Lincoln sharing partner in crime from the start. Soon into the future you'll both yearn to bounce lyrics off each other, so no better time to begin the necessary process than right now. With this album, my wife and I mastered that practice.
