Album Review: “Everybody Else Is Doing It, So Why Can’t We?” by The Cranberries:
Album Review- The Cranberries: – Released in 1993, “Everybody Else Is Doing It, So Why Can’t We?” marked the debut full-length album for The Cranberries and their first major label release. Led by the captivating Dolores O’Riordan, the band’s unique blend of alternative rock, heartfelt lyrics and powerful performances propelled this album to tremendous commercial success, reaching the top spot on both UK and Irish charts and selling over six million copies worldwide.
Co-writing all the songs with guitarist Noel Hogan, O’Riordan and her bandmates crafted an album that has stood the test of time and remains relevant even today. From the opening track, “I Still Do,” with its light and breezy feel, to the ethereal vocals and captivating melodies of their successful hit, “Dreams,” the album showcases The Cranberries’ creative guitar work, direct and honest lyrics and a distinct alternative aesthetic.
Tracks like “Sunday” and “Pretty” contribute to the album’s mystical atmosphere with their gentle balladry, highlighting O’Riordan’s mesmerizing vocals and the band’s tasteful arrangements. “Waltzing Back” carries a weightier tone with O’Riordan embracing her accent, adding a fitting edginess to the song’s dynamic drums and shifting vocal styles.
“Not Sorry” stands out as an intriguing track, featuring a dissonant chorus and O’Riordan’s keening and pleading vocals, conveying a mix of melancholy and anger. The album’s standout single, “Linger,” blends pop sensibilities with the band’s alternative rock sound, leaving an indelible chorus that resonates long after the song ends.
As the album progresses, tracks like “Wanted” and “Still Can’t” reveal a more intense and driven side of the band, showcasing their ability to explore instrumentally meatier ideas while maintaining their alternative aesthetic. The Cranberries’ sense of harmony and O’Riordan’s clever use of dissonances create an evocative and intriguing atmosphere, inviting repeated listens.
The album’s closing track, “Put Me Down,” offers a delicate and intimate farewell, showcasing intricate guitar work within a simple lullaby-like composition.
Overall, “Everybody Else Is Doing It, So Why Can’t We?” presents a solid debut album that ventures beyond alternative rock, incorporating elements of various genres. While it leans toward catchy melodies and pop sensibilities, it occasionally lacks significant artistic depth. However, the album’s performances are compelling, the songs are direct and honest and it remains an enjoyable listen.
Rating: 7/10
Least Favorite Tracks: N/A
Favorite Tracks: Linger, Dreams, Pretty, Not Sorry, Waltzing Back
Be sure to check out our review of Soundgarden’s “King Animal”!
*** This is a Guest post – https://cellophanetowers.com/can-the-cranberries/ ***
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