posted August 17, 2001 08:13 PM            

I hope Duncan reads this message. I hope I don't come across as negative, because I LOVE Duncan's music—I love his voice, and I have to say that I think he is one of the best looking guys I've ever seen (although I have to say, WHAT THE HELL WAS HE THINKING SHAVING HIS HEAD? Is he so good-looking that he has to make himself less attractive?).

I love the first two albums—the songs are all awesome..

However, I have to say that the last album (Phantom Moon) is LOUSEY. Duncan's singing is not the problem—it's the sucky songs. I know people have different tastes, but they are in NO WAY on par with the first two albums!

I didn't understand how they could be so inferior, until I noticed that Duncan had not written them! WHY? WHY? WHY?!!! He is such a talented songwriter, such great songs on his other albums-- I don't understand how he could, as a songwriter, not write his own songs. Not even one song on the album! I find it strange. Was it writer's block?

Apologies to the songwriter of Phantom Moon, but this is what I think.

Best wishes

posted August 17, 2001 09:25 PM            

Well i for one dont share your opinion about Phantom Moon or his haircut but hopefully that comment wont bruise Steven Sater's (or Duncan's) ego too much.

I feel the need to defend PM, but I dont think that Steven or Duncan need me to. The album speaks for itself. Its a carpet with some fantastic fabric. Hey, sometimes you just dont like the carpet. All ill say is give it another listen. Its not really an album u can put on in the background. It is definitely a headphones cd. Just try it again.

As far as songwriting, i think duncan knows he is a damn spiffy writer. but cant he take a break? he's not a machine you know! im teasing.
Duncan and Steven are friends and hell, it just was a good idea.

posted August 18, 2001 09:40 PM            

Open your eyes JLA.

"Phantom Moon" is one of the most beautiful collaborations Ever Written and remember the music is the most beautiful as well ever written. Thanks to Duncan and his voice.
Open your heart JLA.

posted August 19, 2001 03:04 AM            

I personally love Phantom Moon. But I can understand it may not be for everyone, especially if you're more inclined toward a "popish" flavor. Duncan Sheik explores a lot of different styles. I don't think he'd enjoy his career much being "labeled" into any certain musical category. He goes where the creative juices take him. Even if I DIDN"T like Phantom Moon, I would respect Duncan for taking risks instead of a guaranteed fat check for a series of pop tunes he could probably throw together in one night. Great artists are bold, take a firm stance, don't back down, and end up with staying power - unlike many who try to cash in quickly and end up on VH1's "Where Are They Now?" series. If you like Duncan, stay faithful. Try a little more open-mindedness, as Duncan has, and I'm sure you won't be disappointed in the results. I, too, was a little shaken when I looked at the cover to see that Duncan set someone elses lyrics to music. I enjoy his lyrics too. But Duncan has said writing the music was so easy because he could see and/or sing the lyrics in his own light - the lyrics became real for him as he imagined them. I would suggest educating yourself a bit more about Phantom Moon. The story of the collarboration is a very interesting one. And an informed understanding often brings about new perspective.
Shari

posted August 19, 2001 01:48 PM            

I was not trying to be offensive-- that is how I felt about things. But you'all have convinced me to give Phantom Moon a couple more listens before I chuck it.

Its just that I loved the first two albums so much...

Best wishes,

posted August 19, 2001 02:33 PM            

Don't chuck it. You will fall in love with it.....if you give it a chance. Listen to all of it's meanings. Everytime you listen to it, more comes through.

posted August 19, 2001 05:06 PM            

The lyrics are so very touching and meaningful in their own right, and for Duncan to have brought these words to life in the way he did, with his voice and music is just of epic proportion and talent.

posted September 03, 2001 06:49 PM            

I have listened to it several more times, and it's great.

Apologies to the songwriter.

posted September 04, 2001 07:33 PM            

This album is meant to be a soundtrack sort of, for the play Mr. Sater wrote. So the songs may have seemed a little vague. Who the heck is Mr.Chess?

But now that you have gotten past that, listen to the songs for its profound story- telling of life, in general. I can relate so well to what they are saying. Duncan did such an incredible job writing and playing the music. The sounds gave the lyrics feeling, and of course his voice helped out wonders too.
After this album I was considering asking Steven and Duncan to write a soundtrack to my past diaries. Steven would enrich my entries with a poetic grace and Duncan could write the music. Ahhhh.....a big seller, I'm sure!