It’s hard to believe that it’s been 37 years since I first played Boston and listened to “More Than a Feeling,” “Peace of Mind,” and “Smokin'” with Tom Scholz’s distinctive guitar riffs. Boston hasn’t brought out a new CD in 11 years, but just before Christmas Life, Love & Hope showed up just in time to be a stocking-stuffer. For hardcore Boston fans, Life, Love & Hope is a must-buy. For casual fans…not so much. There are some remastered songs on this CD like “Didn’t Mean to Fall in Love,” “Someone,” and “You Gave Up on Love” and the rest is little more than background music. I think listening to one of the Best of Boston compilations would be more satisfying for most listeners than to buy this lackluster effort. GRADE: C+
What about for those of us in the “indifferent in the first place” category?
I think there were four or five songs, at most, by Boston that I liked, the rest seemed to sound like the same with a different lyric line or bass riff. So I’m glad you’re enjoying this blast from the past, but it’s not for me.
Jeff, at one time BOSTON was a Super Group. But this latest CD is a shadow of their former greatness. Most listeners will ignore it.
Rick, you’re right. BOSTON’s dwindling fan base might buy this CD, but most contemporary listeners will find this music too retro.
I loved all those Boston album covers when I was a kid. Seeing this brings back so many memories.