Barenaked Ladies - Everything To Everyone

Not unlike their homeland of Canada, The Barenaked Ladies are regarded by many listeners as fun, poppy, quirky, but not much more than something that smiles a lot and has no real substance. I too can’t protest to know that much about them nor be their hugest fan, but I do have a certain respect for what they do. They have done it their way; without regard to money or fame, and this album speaks to the heart of that existence. Largely poking fun at fame and consumerism, Everything To Everyone is trademark Barenaked Ladies. Half the album’s songs are comical in the lyrical appearance so much so that they make you wonder if they were just smoking cigarettes while recording. The other half of the album showcases the songwriting talents and melody writing the band can accomplish. Songs like “Celebrity” and “Second Best” poignantly reveal that the Ladies are very happy with their level of fame, and their success is something they don’t measure in sales or money. “Shopping” is an upbeat and sly commentary on consumerism and also stands out as a personal favorite, perfect for the Legally Blonde 3 soundtrack staring a special someone. Most people just see the weird lyrics of the songs as funny sayings and nothing more, but underneath lies a somewhat deep and personal message on the world we live in and the places we fit into. Though their humor is what they are largely known for, I tend to feel the more serious tunes to be the albums true gems. “For You” is a slowed-down ballad on sacrifice in the name of love and about opening our little boxes of secrets to those who deserve to see what’s inside. The album standout, “War On Drugs,” is musically and lyrically amazingly simple, but a perfect reflection on depression and suicide. With beautifully dark lyrics such as “the very fear that makes you want to die / is just the same as what keeps you alive”, and “they say that Jesus and mental health / are just for those who can help themselves / what good is that when you live in hell on Earth”, the song really captures the emotion of depression and stands out to show the songwriting talents of the group. An album with a bit of a split identity, Everything To Everyone captures the comical lyrics and views of the band, as well as expressing the more serious art of composing great songs. Not an album that is going to jump up and grab you, but a joy to listen to every now and then. [www.bnlmusic.com]