by Natasha "tashternal" BSB, Brunei Darussalam Reviewed on November 24th, 2004
If anyone asked me what my favourite album in the entire world is, I would tell them that without a doubt, it is both albums Savage Garden released. Savage Garden was introduced to me at the age of 13 by a friend of mine and their self-titled debut album (as well as Affirmation, but that's a different story) has been in regular rotation in my CD player since then.
What I like about this album is that it is different from anything I've ever heard before. Compared to Affirmation, this album is more rock and indie, but there're a good mix of rock tunes, ballads and pop songs on it. I cannot say for sure which songs are my personal favourites. After listening to it over and over again over three years, I've developed an affinity for almost every song on the album. I do love all the songs released though, as well as Santa Monica and Promises. I think a review like this would be too vague, so I'll do a track-by-track review of the album:
1. To The Moon and Back: A perfect way to begin the album. It is such a haunting but beautiful tune.
2. I Want You: This is such a fun song that will get your toes a-tapping. I've tried numerous times to imitate Darren when he chants/raps the verses but I've never done it as well as he can. The message of this song couldn't be easier to decipher, but hey, have we ever heard of lust being sung about in a more fun, entertaining way?
3. Truly Madly Deeply: A Savage Garden classic that showcases Darren's famous falsetto, accompanied by beautiful Spanish classical guitar. Everyone has heard this song at least once in their lifetime. Enough said.
4. Tears of Pearl: The song is overall a good, catchy one. I love the choruses and the verse leading to the last chorus!
5. Universe: A toned-down version of Insatiable from Spin. The song is a very sweet, sensuous ballad that makes you feel warm and fuzzy all over. My friend did point out that while the first verse is all about how Darren wants to take the person concerned, the following verses imply that there is something wrong with the relationship. It's up to you to form your own opinion about the lyrics though!
6. Carry On Dancing: This song has a Mediterranean feel about it - forgive me if I'm wrong though - that makes it really unique. The tune is very catchy (listen to the background music and the clicking noises) and while the song is haunting and full of suppresed anger, you actually find yourself wanting to sway along to the music. I love this song.
7. Violet: A song with a very disco-ish feel to it. I really can't find anything to say about this song because, while I think the tune really rocks, this seems almost like a filler song to me. Sorry.
8. Break Me Shake Me: A very angry, angsty song where Darren and Daniel let their emotions out into the open through the music as well as the lyrics. While it seems like they're trying to control themselves in the verses, the pent-up fury is released in the choruses accompanied with crashing electric guitar riffs. This song may take some time getting used to, but it is good.
9. A Thousand Words: Admittedly, this song has lost its lustre with me somewhat, but I love the part where Darren sings, "manipulation, fabrication, conversation, annihilation...". The lyrics for this song are definitely amazing though and they are worth checking out.
10. Promises: This is a very pop tune which hides a deeper, darker meaning. It is probably one of the only songs on the album you can actually bop and sing along to. I've always loved this song for its tune and the lyrics are wonderful as well!
11. Santa Monica: We started the album with a perfect song and we're ending the album with a perfect song. If I had to choose a favourite song off this album, this would be it. Why? First of all, the melody is beautiful and Darren's vocals are fantastic. The song, although seeming superficial, actually hides a deeper meaning even I cannot decipher to this date. Why is Darren singing about what Santa Monica is like in the verses and then switches to telephone lines in the choruses? It is the one of the most beautiful but mysterious Savage Garden songs around.
Lyrics contained within GoldLyrics.com subject to US Copyright Laws and are the property of their respective authors, artists and labels. If you like the lyrics, GoldLyrics.com encourages you to buy the CDs of the albums and whenever possible, GoldLyrics.com gives a link, where you can buy the album.
