Definitely Maybe (1994)
The next Beatles? The Fab Four return? Hardly. And if another band comes out and goes after that position, please bury them under guitar noise. I’ve actually always preferred the Stones to the Beatles, myself, but the Beatles were undeniably great. The reason doesn’t lie in their meaningless pop period, but in their concept albums and more unique beautiful songs and melodies. Oasis might be able to approach the “I Wanna Hold Your Hand” period, but who really cares at this point? They need to learn how to CONSISTENTLY write good songs before we heap even a tenth’s praise as is heaped upon The Beatles. They do have some talent, but let’s wait a few dozen years and then try the comparison, hmmm?
(“Supersonic”)
Grade: C
(What’s The Story) Morning Glory? (1995)
A giant step in no particular direction. They cut down on the hard rock guitar, up the melodies, polish the lyrics to a lustrous shine, and end up not a bit better than they were. I mean, at this pace, they’re barely edging out Ringo Starr, and are in a dead heat (No joke intended or implied) with George Harrison. The problem is the songwriting. How to fix it? Well, sometimes you’ve either got it or you don’t. Inspiration can be a fickle thing.
(“Wonderwall”)
Grade: C
2010: Almost good enough to be a Beatles throwaway.
Grade: C+