Counting Crows - Hard Candy

While sitting in my AI class this morning it occurred to me that I’ve made no mention of the Counting Crows’ latest installment to their ever-better discography. As most of you know, and have known for years, Counting Crows is one of my favorite bands of all time (arguably, album-for-album, the best band to come out of my generation). How many bands of the 90’s can say that each subsequent album got significantly better? I’m obviously not talking about August and Everything After, their debut album, which has been in my top ten list since 1993 when it was released. I don’t think they could ever top that, but they’ve come very close with Hard Candy.

I must admit, the first time I listened to the album I wasn’t all that impressed (which is usually the case for albums I end up loving). After listening to it A LOT these past few months, I have to say that it is easily their second best album (probably their BEST album if you were to ask anyone else familiar with their music, but as I mentioned earlier, August just has a hold on me).

There are a few absolute gems on this record. The song that immediately stood out was the last one, Holiday in Spain. Gorgeous. So sad and desperate and perfect. My other favorites include Hard Candy (classic Counting Crows), Miami (just a brilliant rock song, wow), and Black and Blue. The only song I really don’t care too much for is Butterfly in Reverse, but I won’t elaborate as I already feel somewhat heretical in saying what I have.

In short, listen to this album.