Speed Graphic Ep [Limited Edition, Import]

however, DO NOT buy this cd from amazon.com. you'd have to be insane to pay that much money for five songs. either go to ben's website and order it, which is about $9 after shipping and all...or just go to sony music and download the songs for $4.95. i would say just go download them off of kazaa but i was unable t find three of the songs, so it's a lot quicker to just go buy them.

Though piano and drums are used exclusively on every song, each track's sound is very different. Each song sounds unique. At no point was I sick of hearing Ben work over the keys of his baby grand Baldwin. The drummer throws down some almost-funky rhythms to keep things lively.

"In Between Days" is fast, driven piano rock with a great riff that will instantly get stuck in your head. A fast, strong start to the album.

"Give Judy My Notice" is a moderately paced song about right what the title implies: breaking up with Judy. Ben sings of his tiring of being Judy's plaything; a slightly more descriptive, funny, coarser word is used in the song. An interesting, surprisingly heart-felt ballad about a sad guy. One of my more favorite songs by Ben, though it may be a bit melodramatic.

"Protection" is fitting to follow the downer Judy, as Ben wants to protect himself from women. Some good piano and drum solo in this keep it lighthearted and joyous.

"Dog" is a nice little tune whose title and main rhythm gets the listener picturing Snoopy dancing around a little path, with Ben Folds taking over for Charlie Brown. However, this time it seems like Brown/Ben is going to get the girl! A very catchy tune, with a nice little cameo by, maybe, Ben's girlfriend of the time.

"Wandering" is a slow, reflective song to end the album. A pretty piece, with some interesting lyrics. A quiet song to end a very enjoyable listen, with a great chorus ending that better have you humming along by the time you finish!

With not a single bad track on the album, this is a solid purchase for fans of Ben Folds. Even better, I believe it could easily introduce new fans to him, for the sound is almost easier to listen to, and probably more likable, than some of his radio work. "Rockin' the Suburbs" this is not, which is not a bad thing at all. Perfectly casual in its atmosphere, this is highly recommended to piano players who want to hear some quality pop that seems effortless, but is also quite developed.