Introduction
"Songs for Goldfish" is a 2005 collection album by Ben Folds, an American singer-songwriter best understood for his alternative rock and power popular song designs. The album was at first launched as a promotional item, accompanying the restricted edition of Folds' studio album, "Songs for Silverman". While "Songs for Silverman" received important honor, "Songs for Goldfish" stays a more odd project amongst Folds' discography, including live recordings, demos, and other uncommon materials. This summary supplies insight into the album's composition, track listing, and reception.
Background and Composition
At the time of "Songs for Goldfish" release, Ben Folds was transitioning from his deal with the Ben Folds Five band to his solo profession. The album's title is an easy going reaction to the name of its buddy album, "Songs for Silverman", which was called after Folds' longtime A&R agent at Sony BMG, Ben Goldman. The title playfully appoints worth to the collection of rarities, representing that it is directed at a more specific niche audience than its equivalent.
"Songs for Goldfish" is a collection of 11 tracks, spanning live efficiency recordings, alternate variations, and demos. Some tracks reveal the procedure of refining Folds' compositions, providing insight into his musical advancement during his shift into a solo artist. The album also includes tracks that playfully experiment with alternate variations of well-known tunes, such as "Learn to Live with What You Are", which includes Folds on piano accompanied by the classical ensemble, yMusic.
Track Listing
"Songs for Goldfish" contains the following 11 tracks:
1. "Adelaide" (live)-- a live rendition of the song originally found on Folds' launching solo album, "Rockin' the Suburbs". It showcases Folds' abilities as a live performer and his ability to engage with the audience.
2. "Cologne" (piano orchestra version)-- a demo version of the tune from "Way to Normal", including Folds on piano accompanied by yMusic.
3. "Learn to Live with What You Are"-- a non-album track including yMusic and highlighting Folds' skilled piano playing and sharp lyrics.
4. "Rent a Cop"-- a B-side to "Landed", providing a funny take on an overzealous security guard character.
5. "Song for Goldfish"-- a brief tune clearly developed for the collection album.
6. "Dog" (demonstration)-- an early variation of the tune "Dog" from "Way to Normal".
7. "Eddie Walker" (live)-- a live performance of the tune from Ben Folds Five's self-titled debut album.
8. "Twin Falls" (live)-- a live variation of the track from Ben Folds Five's "Whatever and Ever Amen".
9. "Blister in the Sun"-- Folds' handle the timeless Violent Femmes song, showcasing his piano-driven interpretation of alternative rock hits.
10. "Side of the Road"-- a formerly unreleased track with haunting melodies and reflective lyrics.
11. "Rockin' the Suburbs" (live)-- a live performance of the title track from Folds' launching album.
Reception
While "Songs for Goldfish" was not extensively evaluated or promoted, it remains a preferred amongst dedicated Ben Folds fans. The album offers a look into Folds' musical processes and provides a refreshing variety of live efficiencies that show his talent as both a pianist and a singer. Despite its minimal release, "Songs for Goldfish" stays a valued collector's product for those admirers of Ben Folds' work, who appreciate his humor, genuineness, and continuous experimentation within his music.
Artist: Ben Folds
Ben Folds, from his early days in Winston-Salem to his solo career and work with the National Symphony Orchestra. A Dream About Lightning Bugs available now.
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