Pearl Jam : Project No Code
by John Silvia - Class of '99
The fact that Pearl Jam's previous albums, Vs and Vitalogy, were the quickest selling albums in history indicate the level of anticipation for the next project, No Code, and what it has to offer. Now clearly the days of Ten are gone, but fans will be surprised to know that the bitter hatred that consumed so much of Vs. and Vitalogy are gone as well. No Code is profoundly more uplifting and relaxing atmospherically, musically, and emotionally. The first single released from this album, "Who You Are", is terrifically light in mood, setting a tone that drifts throughout a good portion of the album. Its pace and sound are also a little reminiscent of John Lennon's "Give Peace A Chance". Yet "Who You Are" is one of only several acoustic pieces, carrying the mood from "Who You Are" through the album while adding their own spices and personality to the lineup. The album finale, "Around The Bend", is Pearl Jam's most relaxed tune ever, leaving even Jimmy Buffett in envy. Imagine a wooden rocking chair on a summer beach house porch sipping Grandma's pink lemonade watching an orange and purple sunset and you'll get the picture. Sure, Pearl Jam didn't forget to leave in some of its traditional alternative aggressive style, but the change is there. No Code is a brand new direction, rich in spirituality that won't leave you disappointed.
