'So There' streams on NPR

First Listen: Ben Folds, 'So There'
http://www.npr.org/2015/09/02/436304005/first-listen-ben-folds-so-there

EDIT:NPR's Linda Wertheimer talks with Ben Folds.
The Case For Classical, Courtesy Of Ben Folds
http://www.npr.org/2015/09/06/437287190/the-case-for-classical-courtesy-of-ben-folds

'Not a Fan' is positively gorgeous. Though, it feels a bit weird to place it second on the album and right after 'Capable of Anything.'

The vocal mix seems a bit aggressive at times ("Not A Fan" intro, some "Phone In A Pool" choruses, among other places), but aside from that, 

I actually like how feeble the f*ck you is at the end of Not A Fan.  Seems to fit the character of the song's protagonist.

I actually like how feeble the f*ck you is at the end of Not A Fan.  Seems to fit the character of the song's protagonist.

I didn't actually hear it until after a few listens.  It's not only feeble but sounds like it comes from the back of the room.

Resisting the urge because I want my first listen to be on vinyl

Resisting the urge because I want my first listen to be on vinyl

I am in the same boat

I resisted for about 4 hours, then I listened. Loved it. Now to resist the urge to re-listen.

So yeah, after a few re-listens, my initial complaints still stand.  I just find the vocal mix to be a bit too overbearing at times.  Not sure what the approach or reasoning behind that was.  Still love all the songs and arrangements though.

I like all the tracks, except Yes Man probably needs to grow on me and F10 D A is kind of a throwaway. Funny though. I'm not the man is a really pretty song. The transition from "Im not the man that I use to be" to "I'm not the man .. BUT I used to be" is excellent.

I do like this album, but I don't see how Ben can be saying that he considers it one of the most "pop" things he's ever done. Not even close!

I can't wait till the 11th when I can buy this and listen to it over and over and over ..