Ben Folds, the legendary musician and founding member of Ben Folds Five, has unveiled a hidden gem from the band's early days, offering fans a unique glimpse into their creative journey. In a recent development, Folds has shared an alternate version of their debut album, titled "Philosophy (Shelved First Attempt)", which was recorded during a pivotal moment in their career. This long-lost masterpiece, produced by Dave "Stiff" Johnson, showcases the band's raw and unfiltered sound, a stark contrast to the polished versions that eventually made it to the public.
The album, which was recorded with a modest budget of around $14,000, provides an intriguing insight into the band's early struggles and creative process. Folds, in his characteristic candid manner, reflects on the era, stating, "It’s pretty rough and tumble, mostly in a good way. And it’s emphatically unique. It’s from an era when you could still identify a band by the instrumentalists, before you’d even hear the vocalist. I don’t think that’s been a thing since computers allowed us to get things just right."
This "Shelved First Attempt" album, which was never released, includes early versions of seven tracks from the original LP, including an early take on the song "Evaporated", which would later be re-recorded for the band's 1997 album, "Whatever And Ever Amen". Additionally, it features three outtakes: "Emaline", "Dick Holster", and "Eddie Walker". Folds' commentary on the album is revealing, as he explains that the session, despite the producer's expertise, resulted in an album that didn't feel like the band's true essence. He recalls, "This version of the album was shelved and never saw the light of day. We had taken the time we needed and the advice of the very competent producer, but it resulted in an album that didn’t feel like us. I only recently happened to have found a cassette of this shelved album. It’s not bad, though I recall it being hideous...It’s just not crazy like the album we all know."
The release of "Philosophy (Shelved First Attempt)" is a significant moment for Ben Folds Five's fans, as it provides a rare opportunity to hear the band in their early, unpolished state. It invites listeners to appreciate the evolution of their sound and the challenges they faced in their formative years. This hidden gem serves as a reminder of the band's resilience and their commitment to artistic integrity, even in the face of limited resources and creative differences.
As Folds himself notes, this release is a testament to the band's unique identity and the importance of embracing one's artistic roots. It's a fascinating insight into the creative process and the challenges of the music industry, where even the most talented artists must navigate the complexities of finding their true voice. The release of this album is a celebration of the band's enduring legacy and a reminder of the power of artistic expression, even when it means embracing the raw and unfiltered aspects of one's craft.
