Chris Cornell 'Expected Controversy' With New Album

If you grew up listening to the groundbreaking grunge albums Louder Than Love or Badmotorfinger, you’re in for quite a shock. Chris Cornell, the vocalist who rose to fame with Soundgarden and experienced a similar success with Audioslave, has gone where few rockers dare: The world of electronic pop. Cornell’s 3rd solo album Scream has replaced the usual guitar-driven tunes of his past with tracks that are heavily based in dance beats and R&B grooves, a switch that undoubtedly was partially influenced by producer Timbaland (Justin Timberlake, M.I.A.).

Since Scream was released on March 10, critics and fans have expressed passionate views, and often times, drastically opposing opinions. You only need to take a peek at a few publications’ reviews to see just how divided the public is when it comes to Scream. While the Los Angeles Times explained that the album is a "fascinating but heartbreaking document of how many wrong decisions one can make in writing," Entertainment Weekly wrote that Cornell almost succeeded in creating "his very own Thriller."

It was evident during a recent interview with Cornell, however, that this is one musician who cannot be flustered easily. Rather than taking offense at the negative reviews, he has been looking at each comment analytically and sociologically. This is not an entertainer who is about to second-guess himself, particularly when he explained that his current live set (which includes a good batch of his old and new material) has made him the "happiest" he’s been in a good while. When Cornell talked with UG writer Amy Kelly, the singer’s time was quite limited, but he didn’t hesitate to provide our questions with candid, thorough responses – some of which might just have you thinking differently about Scream.

UG: Your new album Scream hit stores on March 10 and has already been evoking quite a bit commentary from critics and fans alike. When you pursued this project, were you prepared for the controversy that might develop by working with Timbaland?

"It’s not a simple album in terms of understanding what’s going on musically."

Chris: Yeah. I definitely did that math pretty quickly in my head when I made the decision to do it. I didn’t know that the album was going to sound like it does. None of us knew. It was different than I even expected because the combination of influences kind of came from a lot of different directions. It’s not a simple album in terms of understanding what’s going on musically. It’s not as simple as rock-world-meets-hip-hop-world or any other sort of set or combination of components. It doesn’t really work like that.

Having said that, I sort of expected controversy, and Timbaland expected it. He’s been through it obviously before. I think he really felt that it was going to come more so from my album than other people he worked with. When you’re rooted pretty much entirely in rock and you make a dramatic move – or what seems like a dramatic move like that – it’s going to ruffle some feathers. I’m really glad that it has, though. I would actually have been disappointed if it didn’t. It kind of came out and everybody was all smiles about it. It wouldn’t have been as interesting.

Now it’s like this sociological experiment. You get to look at the different statistics, as opposed to just what people are saying. It’s like, “Okay, this is what they’re saying, but who are they? Where are they from? How old are they? What country is it? What period of my career were they a fan of first?” There were a lot of different periods, and all those different periods had different kinds of music. All of that is really interesting. Even though I’m a guy who comes from what someone could easily say is the rock world, the music that is in that is very different. I’ve released and written a lot of songs that are very non-hard rock inside that world. So then it starts to come down to, “Oh, so it’s really more about guitars versus not guitars, or guitars versus lots of synths or dance beats.” It’s really interesting to look at it from all these different angles, and then try and come up with my understanding of why people are responding in some ways.

The really obvious ones are the most negativity and the most positivity. In other words, the most polarization is definitely in the U.S. Outside of the U.S., people are used to hearing remixes from every rock band. I mean there are Metallica remixes if you go to Ireland. They’re used to it. So it hasn’t been as polarized.

In the U.S., there is also that we’re a country that loves the underdog. There are people who will hear negative stuff, and they’ll come back with, “This is the best thing he’s ever done.” Even that is sort of tough in that I have to gauge, “Well, is this person saying that because they want to be encouraging or it’s because they really believe that?” Some of the comments that I hear from people I really believe. Other ones I feel like they may love the record or it may not be their favorite record, but they don’t like it when somebody gets picked on. So it’s all been pretty interesting.

I recall in past interviews that you’ve mentioned many of your songs start out in a rather traditional rock way – with a few chords from your guitar. So many of the tracks on Scream are beat-driven, which probably changed the entire songwriting process. How did you form the groundwork for most of the album? Did you concentrate on the percussion or vocal elements first?

Basically everything was beat-based. So Timbaland would kind of work from home on beat ideas one at a time. As he was doing that, he would bring them in. Sometimes he would do it in the studio and sometimes he would do it at his home studio. He would bring them into where I was, in the studio where I was working, and play them. Generally, it was like a 2-track, stereo file with his percussion and maybe like one other part already kind of mixed in there. I would write and sing all my parts over that. Some of them, like on the song “Ground Zero,” were actually nothing except drums and this one little keytar note that would sometimes not be there. So as you’ve just said, the vocal harmonies and the vocal melody dictated the key changes to the song. It was like writing a song entirely with just vocals, and other parts were added later.

In a song like “Never Far Away” or “Scream,” there would be much more lush music that we’d write, and it would have much more of an already-arranged-song feel. Working in the computer environment to this degree was different for me because a lot of the song arrangements kind of happened as we’d go. I would write down lyrics for what I felt was a song and sing the parts. When we were kind of figuring out what is the bridge, how many times should the chorus be, when it should come in, what should the length of the verse be, and all of it had been more or less arranged, Jeff would be in cyberspace versus a band standing there trying all the different ways to see how it sounds.

"Basically everything was beat-based."

Another difference, too, was that none of this album was ever performed by a group of people in a room and then recorded and rehearsed – which I’d never done ever. The only thing that I’ve ever done that’s like this is when I would demo at home. I will write songs, using a recording device for the process of writing. I’ll write out lyrics and be singing, but I’ll still kind of have to read lyrics off the sheet since I just wrote it and didn’t remember it yet. Whatever is going down on the tape is what I put as my first impression of the song. I actually have a knack for that.

I’ve had a hard time sometimes with demos as a vocalist because I want to sort of feel like I know how to sing the song and know what I’m doing. Sometimes there’s something sort of missing and in trying to find it, there’s something in there that’s more exciting. I’ve had producers over the years tell me that some of my demo performances were better. I used some of that on the album. There’s certainly a freshness to every vocal on it that’s not like something rehearsed or over-rehearsed.

I actually had to rehearse quite a bit once the album was finished. I just wanted to get used to performing the songs. I did the whole album at several shows on the tour, so I had to rehearse that. The main difference is that you were writing the song and recording the song at the same time.

In listening to Scream, I did have to wonder how you were planning to translate the album into a stage show. Are you going to add quite a few additional bandmates to your usual lineup?

I’ve done it where I had just keyboard players – 2 and then where I had 1. Basically what it is now is using some of the synth tracks and backing tracks and playing to those, and then having guitars sort of mimic synth parts and just replay those parts. Then the drums are just live and we’ll have sort of a reproduction of what’s recorded. That’s been the best way. There’s something about it, too, that it translates really well. The feeling of the song and the feeling of the album come through, but it’s also about a band playing. Therefore I can go in and out of new and old material pretty much effortlessly, and it’s not weird at all.

That was my only concern in this whole process. How am I going to bring this live and mix it up with my old material? Being able to do what I like to do, which is like a 2-and-a-half-hour set, how am I going to get in and out of it? I came up with a lot of ideas before I tried it. One was that I could do an acoustic set where I could just play lots of new music and mix it up. You can get in and out of anything with that. But when we started playing, not only was it not a problem, it’s actually become this huge bonus to the live show. It’s really dynamic and it’s a new level sonically and rhythmically. To me, it’s just kind of broadened my live set to where I’m the happiest that I’ve ever been.

You’re probably not looking too far ahead with the new album just being released, but have you reflected on your next possible move? Is it possible that you might even push the envelope further by exploring more new musical genres?

Yeah, I’ve already had a couple of ideas of what I would do next. At the time I’m focused on the album, so I can’t make any predictions – but I will take this experience me wherever I go.

Interview by Amy Kelly
Ultimate-Guitar.Com © 2009

Comments

[DavidsonTFP]

well, as long as he's happy. personally, I'm not a fan of it, but I can completely understand why he wanted to venture into different territory for this record.

[Covin]

Sounds interesting. It's incredible how people want artists to be more creative and then lash out at them when they do something unexpected. I don't think Cornell "sold out" out at all cause if he had sold out, I think he just would have watered down some rock material to make it more accessible.

I think he genuinely wants to try new things. Whether or not they work is another matter entirely though. lol

[Covin]

Oh, and a lot of people seem to think that utilizing Timbaland as a producer is an indication of selling out. I think he made the perfect choice; when navigating new waters, wouldn't you want someone already familiar with the area to guide you?

2 kudos to Cornell for really throwing himself out there.

[rnelson]

I think it´s good that he did this, I mean if he´s happpy with the music he´s making then that´s all that matters.

That said, I think the album sucks. And it´s weird cause I like so many different kinds of music, but I really disliked this album.

[matt169]

sajn wrote:

omg 1st let me take some pride in being the 1st guy to comment..haha
ok let's face it, everybody liked this guy back in those days but seriously a DANCE album! that is just pathetic.
& ya fcuk timbaland

Gtfo. Who cares if it's a "Dance" album. It's still a damn good record.

I like this interview he seems to know what he's talking about, and I like the album. I like how he calls it a sociological experiment, which is true really. It's really interesting how people have reacted.
As Covin said. Kudos to him for jumping out there and doing what he wants to.

[JimBonJovi]

There are 2 items that I am kind of tired of hearing about: Metallica and Chris Cornell.

[Ninjamonkey767]

sajn wrote:

omg 1st let me take some pride in being the 1st guy to comment..haha
ok let's face it, everybody liked this guy back in those days but seriously a DANCE album! that is just pathetic.
& ya fcuk timbaland

wow, double fail. no wait, triple fail because of the spelling error.

Anywho, I didn't like the album at all, but if this is what he wants to do, then fine by me. I'll still be listening to give it a shot, but as of right now, ugh...

[Martin Blank]

It's awful. The lyrics are GARBAGE. The songs themselves are absolutely terrible. Just f off, dude. You're done.

[lééti]

hm, in my opinion Timbaland turns every decent artist into those who only make made-to-sell songs. i think i've never seen someone he has worked with and that has got better than before in my taste... i personally don't like it, but he's happy and just trying to experiment, so no problem.

[theshaft]

i dont get it, if he wanted something new and fresh why not call up thayil, shepherd and cameron and start writing some new material? really, is that too much to ask? lol

[Arnthor]

Im listening to it now and Ive got to say what Ive heard so far is awesome. Never really been into stuff like this but it sounds great. Thumbs up to the man!

[soundgarden19]

Good for him, I love that he's branching out, it's not going to be Badmotorfinger, but I'll check it out.

[drivenunder4]

Well I won't be as hostile as martin blank but I must say i've heard the title track and was disappointed. It sounds like the clichéd sound of all the new pop stuff. IT REPEATS the same thing over and over. Pretty boring if you ask me. I heard he wrote "light on" for David Cook. He should've kept it for himself! Its the best song i've heard on pop radio

[David_Bowie=GOD]

well if hes happy with it, good for him. I don't care for it that much, but I can still listen to it. I have to say he has balls for making a move like this that would probably alienate about half of his fans.

sajn wrote:

omg 1st let me take some pride in being the 1st guy to comment..haha
ok let's face it, everybody liked this guy back in those days but seriously a DANCE album! that is just pathetic.
& ya fcuk timbaland

you sound like a very intelligent person with diverse tastes *(obvious sarcasm)*

[nave890]

yea chris is a pretty cool guy

[Noah1982]

Last fall I won tickets to see Chris and Timb in Vegas. They had guitars and drums and synth and stuff. Chris' voice was outstanding. Though, I was surprised at the musical direction. It was more mature than pop, but not as exciting or interesting as rock. End result: Chris is doing what HE wants to do. Mad props.

[drunkass]

I just listened to the title track. I thought it was kinda boring.

[shoebox_of_lies]

everybody uses way to many acronyms, what the hell is gtfo?
anyway, cornell is a great song writer, there's no arguing that, so i like to think that even though i'm not a fan of the style he's performing the songs, at heart it's a great piece of work.

[kill it]

sometimes experimenting gets great and fresh results but from what i've heard this is just plain bad. better luck next time.

[edibledevilboy]

I'm cool with the change in direction and everything, but timbaland's work just sounds so thin - the music behind the vocals is awful... other producers in the genre just do it so much better, wish cornell could have worked with someone with a more dynamic plan for their music

[Jugulator_cro]

Ok, listen to Soungarden and Temple Of The Dog, and just pretend this never happened.

[power_gamer_6]

nave890 wrote:

yea chris is a pretty cool guy

eh makes music and doesn't afraid of anything.

Anyway I haven't actually had the chance to listen to this yet, so off I go!

[Soloist96]

everyone needs to grow up

[Mr. Chang]

I don't really understand this. He's not expressing himself any differently then before, the singing is still the same and the lyrical content isn't really different. He's just doing it over these really lame and weak dance beats.

It is one of the silliest records I've ever listened too though, hearing this rock god wail over these midi electronics.

el checko.

[brooklynsoulja1]

this guys a talker huh every question has a 20 minute response

[ndschroede23]

power_gamer_6 wrote:

nave890 wrote:

yea chris is a pretty cool guy
eh makes music and doesn't afraid of anything.

I lol'd XD

[Kastöm]

Meh, Im sorry Chris, but as someone who grew up listening to hip hop and even some techno (god forbid) I must say your album fails to please me on every level. There's no track on this album that stands out, and the fact you say "everything was beat-based" is even worse.

What you have here is a collection of overly simplistic tracks with no real good elements. Nothing groundbreaking, and even worse, nothing worth listening to.

I hate it when artists think that just because they try something different, they're automatically going to rule at it. Go back to grunge Chris, not because people don't like your dance music, but just because you do NOT know how to make dance music.

[koolfoolinapool]

Kastöm wrote:

Meh, Im sorry Chris, but as someone who grew up listening to hip hop and even some techno (god forbid) I must say your album fails to please me on every level. There's no track on this album that stands out, and the fact you say "everything was beat-based" is even worse.

What you have here is a collection of overly simplistic tracks with no real good elements. Nothing groundbreaking, and even worse, nothing worth listening to.

I hate it when artists think that just because they try something different, they're automatically going to rule at it. Go back to grunge Chris, not because people don't like your dance music, but just because you do NOT know how to make dance music.

Then you should be complaining to Timbaland.

Cornell utilized Timbaland's skills as a tool to ease in the genre change to beat based and such.

Cornell wrote the vocals and such and wrote some music on top of the beats.

[faint_spirit]

I think it's absolute crap, personally, but if he likes it, then that's great. He's venturing into other genres which people like Kastom (above) criticize, but hell not everyone wants to play the same style songs for their entire career.

[reecewg2005]

Chris the only way you can make this up is by getting back together with soundgarden...but i highly doubt that will happen =/

[lutfish]

I bet he's in a midlife crisis.
Poor bastard.

[BTBAM_7]

:/

[Bananapatata]

"You know that feeling you get when somebody embarrasses themselves so badly YOU feel uncomfortable? Heard Chris Cornell's record? Jesus."
-Trent Reznor

[scary-fingers]

Well, he isn't forcing the new music on you. He really does do all his music live. I saw him at Projekt Revolution and he did stuff from Audioslave, Soundgarden, and his solo career. He mostly did his older stuff.

At least he didn't do the voice effects like chris brown and whoever else. lol

[ThatWouldBeJon]

Poor choice cornell but ay whatevers cool right? plans for the future: Audioslave please? hah doubt it seriously though.

[prevenge178]

To theShaft: Right on. (you have to get it)

Having that said I'm pretty bummed about the genre swifting. Cornell was my rock idol when I was younger.
I lissened to Soundgarden, Audioslave and his solo albums and i gotta' say this makes me sad.

[Covet]

I can understand why Cornell wanted to branch out with this record. Hell, if I had been playing grunge/rock for years like he has, I'd probably want to switch things up too. That being said, I prefer his older work, but it's great that he's going where he wants to with his music.

[Time Bomb]

Man, his album is worse than St. Anger
I loved him back in SG, TOTD and Audioslave.
Back then Chris was outstanding...

[TSmitty6]

any publicity is good publicity. controversy is great imo. i like the new sound, his solo shit was never that great.

[Johnthevault]

He didn't even do a good a good "Dance" album, If he would have hooked up with Daft Punk now that would have been something.

[BrainScan]

I listened to this CD on the toilet. Great pooping music!

[HotDogs1]

ive only heard the song scream, and its starting to grow on me a little

[dgme92]

He's an artist, artists need change to keep themselves interested. If he continued doing what he knows he's good at, he could get bored and let the music become stale. To be honest, after releasing Scream, I'm looking forward to his next rock record more than ever.

[The-Red-Sky]

I'm glad he was able to clear the air a little on here.

[tomsawyer67]

What a waste!! He could be doing so much better stuff. Chris has an amazing voice, and he needs to be with velvet revolver or something. Honestly. This sounds like the lion king

[ak10]

It is a very bad commentary on the dumbing down of mainstream music when you compare the 90s and 2000s. When you have great grunge singers like cornell and rossdale turning to the pop thing to stay relevant you know where the state of mainstream music is. Sad, sad day, MTV I throughly blame you.

[lutfish]

TSmitty6 wrote:

any publicity is good publicity. controversy is great imo. i like the new sound, his solo shit was never that great.

Euphoria morning is one of my favourite albums, so there is people who likes it...
Imo there were no reasons for him to do this...
But as I said before, he's probably in a midlife crisis

[kurko26]

i didnt like scream

[Kasarve]

well, I'm going to reserve judgement until i hear it, i don't object to him trying something new, i just hope it's something i can appreciate, his work with soundgarden is some of my favourite music, and myself i'd personally love to hear him do something with citar, but i say he should go wherever he wants, regardless of what the industry says lol

[slashNpage77]

Bananapatata wrote:

"You know that feeling you get when somebody embarrasses themselves so badly YOU feel uncomfortable? Heard Chris Cornell's record? Jesus."
-Trent Reznor

hahaha, that's funny. i think chris seems like a cool guy and its good that he's happy, but in my opinion (like many others) the album kinda blows. it sounds like a lot of the shit out there today, not very original, catchy, or creative in general, which kinda sucks cause SD was a great band and audioslave wasn't bad either, but this really doesn't do it for me. oh well, its not my music

[Fogatero]

"I like throwing my voice and breaking guitars"
Go Chris
I'm glad you're happy!

[ænimic]

This kinda reminds me of Pat Boone's In A Metal Mood album.

[tona_107]

So then it starts to come down to, “Oh, so it’s really more about guitars versus not guitars, or guitars versus lots of synths or dance beats.” It’s really interesting to look at it from all these different angles, and then try and come up with my understanding of why people are responding in some ways.

it's not about that, it's about your songs sucking.

justin timberlake didn't suck when timberlake produced his music.

sorry chris, but this album sucks no matter which way you look at it. your lyrics are boring and uninspiring, and there's also absolutely nothing innovative with this album.

[Comeback Kiddd]

Bananapatata wrote:

"You know that feeling you get when somebody embarrasses themselves so badly YOU feel uncomfortable? Heard Chris Cornell's record? Jesus."
-Trent Reznor

God bless Trent Reznor

[The D-man]

I'm a big fan of Chris and all his work, and i think that he is one of music's best artists. If you approach this album with an open mind then you may find something you enjoy...like i did!! but unfortunatly there are too many musical biggots out there who "know" what they like and refuse to give the time of day to anything else!!! I love Trent Reznor, he is entitled to his opinion, but that doesnt mean he's right!! It's a solid album, and i think its better then his last one! If it was by anyone else no one would give a shit, its a damn shame that people disregard it straight away because Timbaland produced it, he is one of the better producers around at the moment and in a stagnant music scene Chris has tried to shake things up a bit!

[Shakalum]

it's poop. poop poop poop.

but hey. "he's happy!" let's all get stoked.

[EnyoAdonai]

Good interview and good answers. He seems like a cool guy.

[Shagisabeast]

Kre8iviT? Heaven forbid!!!!

[Toxtoth_O_Grady]

Comeback Kiddd wrote:

Bananapatata wrote:

"You know that feeling you get when somebody embarrasses themselves so badly YOU feel uncomfortable? Heard Chris Cornell's record? Jesus."
-Trent Reznor

God bless Trent Reznor

True dat.

[decayingdave]

There's nothing wrong with someone taking their own direction, but he isn't - He's following an 80's nostalgia pop fad and it's terrible... The 80's are over, as soon as everyone suddenly gets over their sudden tone-deaf bouts, they'll all realise just how stupid they're making themselves look.

[AEnima18]

I was worried I would hate this album, after Badmotorfinger and Superunknown, but even though I don't think its a masterpiece, I still think its a solid effort. Few too many tracks and a bit too much Timbaland and not enough Cornell in some songs, but it's definately worth a listen. (If you have an open mind to music that is.)

[Sabscope]

Not a fan of this genre of music, so not a fan of this album. I had a listen, but just couldn't get on board with it at all. A matter of personal taste I spose. By the way everyone, it's one thing to keep an open mind, but everyone DOES have a seperate taste - some people just like riff-driven hard rock. Now, them telling Chris Cornell what to do is obviously stupid, but they don't have to change their musical taste either. Let's revel in our differences.

[GaryS]

Lets be honest,the record is terrible,it sounds so generic and the lyrics are shit.for example, "that bitch aint a part of me",i honestly cant listen to any of the bands Chris was in anymore. He has ruined Soundgarden and Audioslave for me.

[devilex121]

he's answered the questions well
he didnt really make this album to create genius songs or anything.... he just wanted to see how people would react
this kinda reminds me of the lyrics in the song "vicarious" hehe

[HemlockCocktail]

devilex121 wrote:

this kinda reminds me of the lyrics in the song "vicarious" hehe

Oh no you didn't!!!

[sajn]

matt169 wrote:

sajn wrote:

omg 1st let me take some pride in being the 1st guy to comment..haha
ok let's face it, everybody liked this guy back in those days but seriously a DANCE album! that is just pathetic.
& ya fcuk timbaland

Gtfo. Who cares if it's a "Dance" album. It's still a damn good record.

I like this interview he seems to know what he's talking about, and I like the album. I like how he calls it a sociological experiment, which is true really. It's really interesting how people have reacted.
As Covin said. Kudos to him for jumping out there and doing what he wants to.

for god's sake we r talking TIMBALAND CHRIS CORNELL here please dear god..see i do understand when artists look to do sth differnet sometimes u noe sth creative innovative & all but this is just too much to take..timbaland the guy was in the song "sexy back" the song was on the radio tv like 24-7, the worst song ever(i dun noe if we can call it a song)& producer of the cornell album! normally when i like a artist i just download their new album irrespective of their ratings or reviews blah blah stuffs..but techno dance beat based music - there r no words

[sajn]

Ninjamonkey767 wrote:

sajn wrote:

omg 1st let me take some pride in being the 1st guy to comment..haha
ok let's face it, everybody liked this guy back in those days but seriously a DANCE album! that is just pathetic.
& ya fcuk timbaland

wow, double fail. no wait, triple fail because of the spelling error.

Anywho, I didn't like the album at all, but if this is what he wants to do, then fine by me. I'll still be listening to give it a shot, but as of right now, ugh...

whats with d spelling error ??
the only error i see is that ur name isnt munky-butt-f-u-c-k-e-r!!
see i did it again

[GaryS]

Lets be honest,the record is terrible and generic.The lyrics are lacking in creativity,for example "that b*tch aint a part of me".I honestly cant listen to any band chris cornell has been in anymore,he has ruined Soundgarden and Audioslave for me.

[thedekker]

interview is similar to that with scott weiland on happiness in golashes...sounds like he's embarrased himself just as much too!

[littleleo88]

i really like the album, and most of the lyrics are really good first song is a bit pop, but the rest of the album is interesting and different.

[ratlr]

i only liked chris cornell when he was with audioslave. his new stuff sux.

[Cactus Jumper]

i loved soundgarden, i appreciated audioslave, i liked the first two solo records but scream...
chris did a good job with the lyrics and the singing,
in my opinion he is still the best singer in the world but for me this album is just synthetic and mainstream, i was so looking forward to this record and i was really dissapointed when i heard the new songs. On the other hand like already a lot of people said, if he wants to walk this path and he is fine with it, why not, but i really hope his next record is goin to be guitar driven but anyway i wish him good luck...

[Lambey]

haha this is crazy.
everyone i know stopped being this narrow minded about music when they were 15.
get off his case.

[shadow__666]

Comeback Kiddd wrote:

Bananapatata wrote:

"You know that feeling you get when somebody embarrasses themselves so badly YOU feel uncomfortable? Heard Chris Cornell's record? Jesus."
-Trent Reznor

God bless Trent Reznor

I agree with Trent on this one (and I'm a lifelong fan of Cornell). I have nothing against electronic music at all (in fact I blast my Prodigy and Depeche Mode every day) but Chris didn't even do it right.
I think Timbaland, for what he is, is an excellent producer and did a good job on this album, after all he only does what he's asked to. But Chris, you dropped the ball. Your lyrics are lame at best, and your singing hasn't gotten any better from the turd that was Carry On. If your voice is shot so much, give up.

[loz4]

well put shadow_666 living colour are one of my favourite bands

[Hash4you]

Bananapatata wrote:

"You know that feeling you get when somebody embarrasses themselves so badly YOU feel uncomfortable? Heard Chris Cornell's record? Jesus."
-Trent Reznor

no kidding? wow i thought reznor was more open minded than that.

on a different note, this record was not that bad; its no superunknown, but i like it. I think a lot of people were turned of after hearing 'part of me', that song totally blew and was not like chris at all. but he pulled out a few good trax like ground zero and the one afer it.

[Paramecium302]

Cornell is sooooo boring

[bigbunny]

chris, get a band. keep it. kthxbye

[Hergiswi]

I can't tell how I feel about the song "Scream," but I can DEFINITELY say that Cornell hasn't sacrificed any of his vocal abilities in making it.

[cuberonix]

Nice guy. Bad album.

[guitaringnathan]

i've only heard the title track. gotta hand it to him, i dont think he was trying to break into the mainstream honestly, it really just sounds like something he wanted to explore. this music is really not my cup of tea but its not terrible. chris cornell doing it sounds better than say chris brown. and cornell wont beat you up either

[Gonzo6SGrocks]

JimBonJovi wrote:

There are 2 items that I am kind of tired of hearing about: Metallica and Chris Cornell.

+1

[Mike0.08]

Chris Cornell could drop a new rock album next week if he wanted to you ignorant fools. Hell if he would've made a solo rock album you people would be complaining it sounds too much like "Carry On". I personally am a HUGE fan of Scream, and True fan of Chris Cornell. True Cornell realize the lyrics are traditional Cornell, and don't focus on the past but do focus on the important part THE MUSIC (something you haters apparently cant come to terms with doing). There is nothing like blasting SCREAM...from Track 1 to 14! It's a unique, non-stop, interesting, and thrilling experience.

[your^consience]

JimBonJovi wrote:

There are 2 items that I am kind of tired of hearing about: Metallica and Chris Cornell.

Guns and Roses

[wicked_hobbit]

I was kinda eager to know what he could come up with. I don't mind about him leaving rock and I would respect him a lot more if he pulled off that stunt to produce something fresh and different. But the singles sound exactly like other mainstream songs nowadays (especially when Timbaland rules the airwaves).I'm sorry but for me this is selling out. But as a fan, I'm still open for his future works. Who knows if this will enable him to rejoin rock bands with fresh ideas

[wicked_hobbit]

And yeah I only have listened to the singles. Gonna have to check out the whole CD

[Kazaam_88]

I must say that Chris Cornell is an artist that I personally grew up listening to. I enjoyed his work with Soundgarden, and I thoroughly enjoyed the work he did with Audioslave. To me, Chris Cornell is a rock and roll genius, with an absolutely fantastic voice.

I recently purchased "Scream" and found out it wasn't what I expected, but I gave it some time, and when I did that, I found it was actually a very well done album. It explores a realm that only the most daring rockers explore. I personally think that this album marks a milestone in Chris Cornell's career, and I hope that in his next album, he has some electronic pop such as this album, but also includes some of his old sound, and it will probably be one of the best albums ever made in my opinion.

[death_rider]

Finally there is some maturity and attempts at accepting something new, but shouldnt be any of that with right now. This album actually sucks, no doubt about it, if he went on tour, Lady Gaga could be the opening act... There is a point when you have to accpet that something actually sucks ass.

Yes, he experiemnted and tried something new in his career but it is such unoriginal horrible sounding bull shit. I dont get how this guy went from Soundgarden to this.

I just dont get this album at all. It reminds me of how Jefferson airplane went from songs like white rabbit and somebody to love to we built this city (or whatever the **** that terrible song is called)

[Jacob_s]

not to take away from audioslave or soundgarden but in my opinion temple of the dog was his best project...

Checked.

[dudewithapen]

His gravelly voice over this beats is pretty awesome... Enemy is a great song from every angle. The album wasn't amazing, and I've always thought that Cornell was an amazing talent that never quite hit the nail on the head with what he could do... Soundgarden and Audioslave are just OK, imho, and this album isn't amazing, but it's good, and I respect him for branching out and not just doing an album like this to say he did, but you can tell he put alot of himself into making it a legitimate album.

[133.]

I haven't even heard the album, so lets clear that up first.

I think, no matter what Cornell does, he's a solo artist. all he really needs is his voice, Timbaland has just decorated it differently.

And even if Scream is terrible, I'm sure it was produced better than Revelations- My God that was rushed.

[BonezShaker]

this album made Timbaland look evil....

[ihavenoname93]

why does chris cornell get so much support and metallica doesnt? they both did the same sort of thing. they forgot their roots and made a record that left their old fans confused. how is this any different?

[nikh158]

I remember a few years ago, Gary Moore of all people bought out a techno/dance album. That album was awful. I expect most creative musicians would like to explore other avenues, it`s just that sometimes they go off in the wrong direction. Another couple of examples would be Jonny Lang and Kenny Wayne Shepherd. Both changed their musical style and subsequently disappeared into oblivion (although KWS seems to returning to his roots again).

[TwistedLogic]

I listened to the song scream and some other song called part of me and thought they were both below average. I like dance music and some of Timbaland's stuff, like Nelly Furtado's Loose, but this was uninspired and somewhat boring. In Chris' defence, he should be able to show other sides of what he likes and is influenced by musically. Too bad it did not work out better.

[JephStiph]

Wow, I went and listend to some of the tracks. It's a Grade "A" poopbomb.
it sounds like every track was done with Microsoft Songsmith (and if you don't know what that is , go search it on youtube).

[JakkSatch]

[sarcastic mode = on]
Hey, at least Cornell is going to bring sexy back...
[sarcastic mode = off]
Seriously, nothing against eletronic music, but there are a lot of ways you can go through it...and Timbaland's way is the worst...

[Kazaam_88]

In my opinion, we haven't truly lost Chris Cornell, we still see some of his old more brittle self in the lyrics.

"That bitch ain't a part of me"

Not a line technically used in electronic pop, Chris Cornell brings his own style to it.

[GoddamnCracka]

Im a huge Chris Cornell fan, he's been involved in some great music. but the genre move was a mistake. His voice is something that should be backed up by instrumentalists of equal talent and power. beeps n kicks dont cut it.
BLAH XO

[Kazaam_88]

I see where are you are coming from, GoddamnCracka

[M†LMKR]

well, at least i think it's safe to say he didn't do this to sell out, or try to move towards a more trendy sound in order to sell, i think he genuinely wanted to work on somethin of this sort. and for the most part, i believe why people don't like it is because it's such a change, not as much because they think the music is bad. i'm sure this album flew right over a bunch of fans' heads. i don't think it's bad though, no quite good, but aright.

[Thrashtastic15]

tona_107 wrote:

So then it starts to come down to, “Oh, so it’s really more about guitars versus not guitars, or guitars versus lots of synths or dance beats.” It’s really interesting to look at it from all these different angles, and then try and come up with my understanding of why people are responding in some ways.

it's not about that, it's about your songs sucking.

justin timberlake didn't suck when timberlake produced his music.

sorry chris, but this album sucks no matter which way you look at it. your lyrics are boring and uninspiring, and there's also absolutely nothing innovative with this album.

You think Justin Timberlake is good? How did you find this GUITAR site?

Look, I am glad Chris is happy but him and people who have never heard anything else by him are the only people who will be pleased by this. It sounds horrible, I expect much better for someone of his calibre.

[GoddamnCracka]

justin timberlake didn't suck when timberlake produced his music.

sorry chris, but this album sucks no matter which way you look at it. your lyrics are boring and uninspiring, and there's also absolutely nothing innovative with this album.

You think Justin Timberlake is good? How did you find this GUITAR site?

what r u talking about? JT's bringin' sexy back OHHYEAH

[aquarius2000]

Listen everyone making comment's on this site obviously takes some interest in Chris Cornell and I think that's exactly what he wants, people talking about it, weather it be positive/negative input it doesn't really matter the fact that it is being discussed does and for good for you Chris. I've been a fan since your early days, your voice pioneered a new era after the voice of Mr Plant for me, I've listened to the new album. I though it was off the wall, different, even for an R&B, hip-hop come dance album, I don't think I can class what it is and I think that's exactly what you wanted to achieve. I would never buy it and it'll be a while before I listento it again, but well done bru, you're are as diverse as you are awesome. Who's says music should be in a box anyways?

[Hungry_Hameds]

It's his call, and fair play, but the problem a lot of people have is that soundgarden were such a fantastic band, instantly recognizable for their sound, and audioslave containing 75% of RATM always meant good things. I think because he's done so much for rock he's associated with it very strongly whether he wants to be or not. Robert Plant will always be rock but he's done folk and other things, but these are all closer to Rock so it seems ok. Cornell's biggest hurdle is he's picked a genre that most rock fans hate because it veers away from the raw talent required to rock. Let him do it, he's more likely to get a new audience than keep the old one.
Bold move man, but dont discount a soundgarden reunion!!!

[MelvinMoo]

well guys, i honestly dont see whats wrong with chris making this album. it sounds like its made by chris for chris. kinda like w*nking. yes. chris is w*nking.. in front of the whole world. o..k..

[rock howard]

i lost so much respect for this guy, its not even funny

[.QOTSA.]

Hash4you :
Bananapatata wrote:

"You know that feeling you get when somebody embarrasses themselves so badly YOU feel uncomfortable? Heard Chris Cornell's record? Jesus."
-Trent Reznor

no kidding? wow i thought reznor was more open minded than that.

To be open minded doesn't mean you have to like everything! Its all a matter of opinion.

[stratwrassler]

I like the new vocals and lyrics, but the production is a bit soft and mushy to my ears. Is this typical for the new pop/dance genre?
I still expect him to be a great performer of whatever material he brings to the show, so I'm still going to see him live.

Checked.

[irontremelo]

=/
I guess????..
(sigh)

[Danwilson]

I have listened to Scream and i do not like. I do have an open mind with music too. But good on Chris for trying. I will never slag off Chris after seeing him in 2007. He was amazing with a 2 and a half hour set and was mind blowing.

[P Burg]

Jugulator_cro wrote:

Ok, listen to Soungarden and Temple Of The Dog, and just pretend this never happened.

Thank you. Temple of the Dog is the shit.

[P Burg]

Mike0.08 wrote:

Chris Cornell could drop a new rock album next week if he wanted to you ignorant fools. Hell if he would've made a solo rock album you people would be complaining it sounds too much like "Carry On". I personally am a HUGE fan of Scream, and True fan of Chris Cornell. True Cornell realize the lyrics are traditional Cornell, and don't focus on the past but do focus on the important part THE MUSIC (something you haters apparently cant come to terms with doing). There is nothing like blasting SCREAM...from Track 1 to 14! It's a unique, non-stop, interesting, and thrilling experience.

Chris, is that you? Jesus, just stop making music already. Audioslave was horrible enough. I love you, but stop, please.

[Toadstool5]

Maybe he just wants to make music that doesn't remind him of anything

[KurdtStaley]

This album is almost so bad it makes me dislike Soundgarden.. I never knew that deep down Cornell would rather be Justin Timberlake, than a rockstar. But upon realizing this, it makes me never want to waste my time listening to any new material by him again.

[deserted]

well the man made a decision and choose his own path.
why are you people complaining about this.
Whether You like it or not it doesn´t really matter ...
let it be damn :/
and learn to accept changes!
you don´t have the RIGHT to blame others for their Work, if you like it it´s okay if not just don´t touch it.
and after all the man is doing this his whole life, he is a skilled musician.he don´t need your advices at all.
i mean you all weren´t there when they came up with Jesus christ post, Black Hole Sun, Spoonman, Rusty Cage and and and.
and something the song "SCREAM" would sound pretty cool with some powerful Riffs :]
stop screaming at the top of your heads people!
grow up

[deserted]

jesus Christ pose damn :/

[TheElectricity]

DavidsonTFP wrote:

well, as long as he's happy. personally, I'm not a fan of it, but I can completely understand why he wanted to venture into different territory for this record.

THANK YOU! I think that he should do what he wishes to do with his career. I personally love his descision to do this album and make it what it is. I think it shows just how great a musician he really is and that he's not afraid of peoples opinions. And to the Los Angeles Times... FU!