The Best of Times, the Worst of Times, the End Times

E Works (1-19-10) "I pushed the bed against the window today, so there'd be only one side," states Mark Oliver Everett on "Unhinged". This is only one of many poignantly morose lyrics that can be heard on the Eels recent release, "End Times". Don't get me wrong, I've always had a keen appreciation of dark and downright depressing music. However, after listening to this 40-minute opus of misery, even I needed to step outside and see the sunshine. A majority of "End Times" was recorded on a four-track, which gives the songs a characteristic grainy quality. Considering the album's content, this seems only natural. "End Times" is in some moments beautiful, other moments irreverent, and in all instances unapologetically filled with pain and regret.

Everett, most often known as "E", leads off with a song aptly titled "The Beginning", a lyrically uplifting tune being told in hindsight by a sad, reflective narrator. E's raw, smoky voice coupled with a delicate guitar melody make this the most compelling track on the album, and may remind some listeners of a favorite of mine, "Gone for Good" by Morphine. Next is "Gone Man", an up-tempo bluesy rocker telling of a man coming to the realization that his self-defeating behavior is subconsciously pushing away his lover, as if his "true-self" has wanted to be alone all along. "Paradise Blues" is a resentful ditty in which there's an analogy comparing a heartbreaking woman to a suicide bomber, accompanied by a steady bar-room beat. The sadness continues with "Unhinged", a scathing condemnation of a past love, a love who has apparently become the antithesis of a woman who was once cherished. One last track to check out is "Little-Bird", a lovely Dylan-esque tune that is both soul-bearing and simple.

The Eels are at their best on "End Times" with the quiet, contemplative ballads that highlight E's soulful voice. Their faster-pace offerings are also catchy, though a tad bit depressing. Those who enjoy Elliott Smith's catalogue will likely dig this album, as the unbridled emotion contained in "End Times" rivals the works of the late singer-songwriter. And if exercising the demons of past relationships gone wrong is your thing, then this CD will be right up your alley. Just do me one favor, though, and don't save it for a rainy day...this disc is dark enough on its own.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5