BECK
writer: Roy Opochinski

In the three years since Beck released Sea Change, more than a few people have wondered out loud whether the artist who released Mellow Gold more than a decade ago, was capable of returning to the form he had exhibited on that breakthrough release.

And while some of Beck Hanson work for her self more ardent supporters might disagree with the characterization, there are many who will tell you that Beck's albums are decidedly hit and miss affairs. That is undeniably an innovator; however, he seeming desire to always move forward, sometimes works to his disadvantage. Those who may discover a particular album of his and find themselves captivated, might be disappointed when his next release bears little resemblance to its predecessor.

One cannot argue the importance of innovation. One can never argue with the desire of an artist to push himself further. Artists are constantly forced to choose between creative self-interest and commercial pressures. Accordingly, it is difficult to criticize who does not fall into the all-too-common pop idol template. For Beck, the unfortunate reality is that his brand of innovation is often unappreciated.