Well, now...

I bought the first Nickel Creek album (self-titled) immediately after I heard "When You Come Back Down" for the first time. I was immediately drawn in by the skilled performances, the complex melodies, and the group's unique sound. "This Side" definitely surpasses "Nickel Creek" in the uniqueness category. It contains more vocal tracks (only one of the thirteen is instrumental), which both disappointed me (I love the instrumentals from the last album, as well as Chris Thile's newest album), but also pleased me, as I love hearing these guys sing.
Now, onto the tracks. "Smoothie Song" is an awesome instrumental. I really liked it. "Spit on a Stranger" is sung by Chris Thile, and it is a fun song. Another one of my instant favorites is "House Carpenter", a variation of a traditional Scottish song. "Young", "Brand New Sidewalk", and "Green and Gray" are a couple more I really like. I'm still sitting on a couple ("Sabra Girl", "Beauty and the Mess", "Seven Wonders"), but they'll probably grow on me. Incidentally, those all feature Sara Watkins as the lead vocalist, but that's nothing against her.
Overall, if you're not willing to be very open to this album, I doubt you'll like it. It's definitely different than their debut, and, at least for me, is taking a bit of time to sink in (if you buy it, you'll know what I mean.)
If you're in for something new, fun, unique, DIFFERENT... Definitely buy this album. I really like it. If not... Don't buy it, and then come on here to whine about it.

Give it time

Those of you who were expecting a similar album to their first, and were disappointed, all I can say is, give it time. Listen to this CD all the way through a couple times, and you will be surprised how it soaks into your subconcious. It is truly and amazing album, full of layers of great sound. Each time I listen I hear another layer. This band is simply phenomenal, and they are the break I've been waiting for from the fake, electronic, overly hyped music of today.

1. Smoothie Song: Great instrumental 2. Spit on a Stranger: Pavement cover, well done 3. Speak: features vocal talents of all three members, written by Sean 4. Hanging by a Thread: I feel like I've heard this before, not sure why, but it's a very emotional tune, reminds me of a 70's ballad, great instrumental by Chris. My favorite on the album. 5. I Should Have Known Better: Uncomfortable to listen to, but in a good way? 6. This Side: Would be a great radio release, like that would ever happen. Written by and vocals by Sean 7. Green and Gray: Chris pours his heart out on this one, also one of my favorites. 8. Seven Wonders: Another great one, Sara doing vocals 9. House Carpenter: Tragic story like "Lighthouse's Tale" from the last album. 10. Beauty and the Mess: Sara vocals again 11. Sabra Girl: Another favorite, lilting waltz with Sara, reminds me of Scarborough's Fair 12. Young: Chris sings here, cute story, catchy upbeat melody 13. Brand New Sidewalk: Another lilting ballad by Chris

Give it a listen, you'll be glad you did but your CD player might get tired!

Awesome Follow-Up Album

I've listened to this album numerous times and i find something new i like about it everytime. A total 180 from their 1st project (another classic), but still maintains the same quality that their self-titled debut introduced us too. 5 STARS!!!