i disagree strongly. when you use the word "sucks" to describe the album, what exactly does that mean? it seems a very harsh adjetive for anything this band puts out. i realize and embrace the fact that i'm a church fanboy but i have (i think) enough of a discerning ear to determine what is high quality and what is shit. i understand that opinions are like assholes and that everyone has and are entitled to them but by which criterior does untitled suck?

i haven't shared my opinions on the album yet for a few reasons. firstly, there are far more attractively verbose reviews already here and my limited reviewing skills will not be able to shed any more light on the album than is already here. secondly, i like to have a bit of time with my church/kilbey releases for my thoughts, opinions, feelings to come into more focus. all that being said, i can not declare it the "greatest" church album. i can not choose any one church album greater than others. i have favorites but they change like the seasons. untitled is still to fresh for me but i suspect over time it will be a favorite as most become (fwiw, jammed and bastard universe, while unique, in no way competes with their "regular" releases). the album itself sets a mood, doggedly follows its own course and delivers on what was promised and set in 'cobbalt blue'. it flows so seamlessly, fits as a whole so nicely that it somewhat transcends a normal album of tracks (another fwiw, painkiller feels the same way to me). while not a concept album as usually defined, it feels like one in temperment and style. in every way that is important to me, it is a resounding success. just thinking about the album brings a smile to my face, gives me hope, pleases me that music this good, of this quality still exists. the band has never been more on point.

as for the earlier criticism of ultc, i disagree (again). i love that one for it's eclectisism, different styles, different textures. i find myself still often listening to it, as i do with all of the post 98 releases.

you guys with the great literary skills (fando, vlach, altres to name a few off the top of my head, theres more).....excellent stuff and very enjoyable to read.