I'm not saying that Sawao's vocals are a let down, I mean they just aren't a strong point, as you would see in other bands like Boston, Journey, or Queen. You know?

Maybe not the main selling point. He has some standout tracks, though, and until recently, his vocals sounded pretty inspired and intense.

I guess you should consider that he is getting older.

[quote="sheerheartattack"]I guess you should consider that he is getting older.[/quote]

::points to Ann Wilson from Heart, and James Ronnie Dio, who are still touring and blasting out hugely intense vocals::

But I do see what you're saying.

Inspired and intense are good words. He might not be the best singer, but I just like how much emotion and energy he generally puts into it.

Sometimes I suspect that his aging process has reversed. I swear he looks older on the Smile back cover than on the back of Good Dreams.

I guess you should listen to his lives if you want to hear him sing with more emotion and intensity. Vocals often get mixed down in the studio to get the "best" sound out of them.

[quote="Marekenshin"]I guess you should listen to his lives if you want to hear him sing with more emotion and intensity. Vocals often get mixed down in the studio to get the "best" sound out of them.[/quote]

Not until Good Dreams I'd say. I think he still has it in him, but the songs he's writing and the production and recording are not allowing it to come through.

[quote="GoldenRhino"][quote="sheerheartattack"]I guess you should consider that he is getting older.[/quote]

::points to Ann Wilson from Heart, and James Ronnie Dio, who are still touring and blasting out hugely intense vocals::

But I do see what you're saying.[/quote]

But you also have to point out Rob Halford, who just can't cut it anymore. I mean, he has good vocals now, but his former vocals - best in heavy metal history.

Speaking of Good Dreams, I was listening to it and Penalty Life today and I still don't get why so many people don't like them much.

I think it's been explained ad nauseum, but, if it makes you feel better, I think Penalty Life has more redeeming qualities.

They both have more songs that I'd skip than the average pillows album, but they both have amazing songs. Well, Penalty Life has amazing songs. Good Dreams has pretty damn good songs.

I'd be inclined to disagree, but the albums certainly aren't all bad.

They may not be the best, but he can get loud and high.

And lots of enthusiasm.

I'd have to agree with Mare, that live shows are the best way to hear some intense emotion.