— LION‘S EYE — Page 9 October 11, 1991 ‘Original’ Van Halen ~ Receives 3-Star Review By Eric Forte VAN HALEN For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge *¥* A magical mayhem of music, conveying the musical genius of Edward Van Halen. The music is very different and original, in that Edward is constantly experimenting with new styles of playing the guitar. The music is excellent, but the vocals could use some work on some songs. The only problem with some of the songs, is that they are very predictable, sounding much like some of the older, classic Van Halen. Most of the lyrics talk about typical rock and roll subjects, such as sex and love, though some have very original themes. “Judgment Day” is probably the best song on the album. The music is very hard and heavy, compared to most of the other songs on the tape. The lyrics are very original, in that they talk about having a sinful life, and not worrying about it until judgment day. The music is put together very well, and Sammy Hagar’s vocals are excellent, with his ability to hit both high and low notes. “Pleasure Dome” is also a very strong song. The guitar and drums are unbelievable. The vocals are also very good, except in one part. The introductory vocals are very boring and drab, and seem as if he is just talking instead of actually singing. This brings the song down so much, because the rest of the song is excellent. I feel the song might have been much better if it was done as an instrumental. “Poundcake” will someday be a classic of Van Halen's. The guitar work is truly amazing. The song starts with a very weird guitar intro, played with an electric drill. Edward touches the strings of the guitar with the drill, creating very strange sounds. The intro is followed by a very rock and roll song filled with solos made up of Trent Arterberry, talented artist, entertained Delco students in Sopa hoto by: GINA LUCCHESI even talks instead of singing. taps, slides, and lightning fast string picking. Another guitar phenomenon is the instrumental, “316”, a slow, acoustical guitar solo lullaby. The song is truly magical, especially with the harmonics used at the end. Edward Van Halen puts his best into this album, giving 110%. Not only is he a guitar maestro, but Eddie is equally talented with the piano and keyboards. This is shown in “Right Now”, a hard rock ballad type of song. The piano intro is a musical beauty to the ears, as it flows quickly and perfectly like a waterfall. The guitar solo is as equally great, as well as Sammy's vocals. The only musical down point of For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge is “Man On A Mission”. It’s not that the song is really bad, because it isn’t. The background vocals performed by bassist Michael Anthony are unbelievable. Believe it or not the guitar is the worst thing on this song. Eddie seems to play a simple scale throughout the whole song, not changing much at all. This made the song a bit boring. Sammy Hagar’s vocals on the album are either great or terrible. There are no ‘in-betweens’. Some songs like “Judgment Day” and “Right Now” have great vocals, but some songs such as “In ‘N’ Out” and “Spanked” have horrible vocals. 1 think the problem on some songs, is that Sammy doesn’t project himself, and breed haven't seen this problem on previous Van Halen albums. Edward Van Halen brings rock music to a halt, as he redefines it, and turns it upside down, Van Halen style. Amazing hammer taps, string slides, and “faster than the speed of light” string picks define his eccentric and strange style of playing. His keyboard abilities are equally great. Brother Alex Van Halen puts a beating on the skins, as he pounds away odd timings and keeps his brother in time. Michael Anthony gives a new meaning to the word “high”, as his backup vocal are some of the highest ever heard in rock and roll. While not screaming at the top of his lungs, Mike keeps the rhythm with Alex as he plays wonderful bass lines. Finally, ‘Sammy puts forth both great, and not-so - great vocals, but still sticks with the Van Halen style. Overall, For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge is a great album. The music is great, and the vocals, for the most part are just as well. This is a great tape for those who are looking for musical quality, and not just a few pretty boys. This is a definite must for all die hard Van Halen fans, young or old. Next month look out for a Van Halen concert review. The concert takes place on October 15, at the Spectrum. ad From the Front Desk . . (Continued from Page 6) Question 2. The campaign recommends that the University provide increased opportunities for students to be challenged to think about their life assumptions, biases, morals, values, and social responsibilities. Are these relevant issues to your life? Are Community Meetings helpful to accomplish this goal? How else can we develop these opportunities to discus these situations? I need your response to these questions, so drop in or write. This Campaign is an exciting opportunity to make a real difference. If you haven't read the document on the Campaign, please do so. You'll be as proud of what we do here as I am and you'll want to find ways to make it even better. P.S. Dr. Madlyn Hanes was one of the authors of the Campaign report. Delco Funnies Presents Rob Channing, Entertainer Have you ever been fascinated by mystifying fortune tellers, mind- readers, or just good entertainment? If so, Penn State Delco is the place to be. Robert Channing will be appearing October 25, at 12:30 pm in the main lounge. To continue the Delco Funnies long line of great entertainment, the show is a courtesy of the Student Activities Committee. Robert is a psychic, an E.S.P entertainer; a showman who reads minds, predicts numbers, foretells future events. He also can bend your key, will name your card, write down your telephone number, guess the car of your dreams...and more. Before it’s all over, everyone will have been in the spotlight. Amusing millions throughout his illustrious career, Robert has been on radio, T.V., and in professional clubs throughout the Northeast and Canada. Robert insists that he does not prearrange anything with his audiences. He has even offered $25,000 payable to charity in the event of him being convicted of and using stooges and/or confederates to accomplish his demonstrations. Robert has entertained at colleges such as Colgate Univ., Syracuse Univ., Shippensburg Univ., and Niagara Univ. Make sure you attend this mind bending performance on October 25 which is free and welcoms to all skeptical students and staff. If you have any questions see Ms. Tammy Zampogna, Director of Student Activities, in the Lion’s Den.
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