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 glimpse into their creative evolution. In a recent development, Folds has shared an alternate version of their debut album, titled "Philosophy (Shelved First Attempt)", which was recorded during the band's initial days but never saw the light of day. This long-lost masterpiece, now available for the first time, provides an intriguing insight into the band's formative years and the creative process that shaped their unique sound.
The album, which was produced by Dave "Stiff" Johnson, features early, alternate versions of seven tracks from the original LP, including an early version of "Evaporated" that would later be re-recorded for the band's 1997 sophomore album, Whatever And Ever Amen. Additionally, it includes three outtakes: "Emaline", "Dick Holster", and "Eddie Walker". Folds, in the liner notes, reflects on this era, describing it as a time when bands could be identified by their instrumentalists, before the vocalist even came into the picture. He adds, "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."
The "Shelved First Attempt" album, as the name suggests, was initially set aside due to budget constraints and creative differences. Folds explains, "The budget from Caroline Records, as I recall, was about $14k, all-in. We spent all of that in a proper three-week session in Philadelphia with a proper producer who had a few hits under his belt and who gave us a great deal. This version of the album was shelved and never saw the light of day."
Despite its initial rejection, the album has now been remastered and is available for streaming and download, offering fans a rare opportunity to hear the band's early experiments and the creative struggles that ultimately shaped their iconic sound. Folds, in his characteristic self-deprecating humor, recalls, "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."
This release is a testament to the band's enduring legacy and their commitment to exploring their artistic roots. It invites fans to appreciate the journey of their favorite artists, understanding that even the most polished masterpieces often have humble beginnings. As Folds himself notes, "Overall, it’s good! It’s NOT the kind of record you’d hear produced these days. It’s pretty rough and tumble, mostly in a good way. And it’s emphatically unique."
The unveiling of "Philosophy (Shelved First Attempt)" is a celebration of the band's artistic growth and a reminder that even the most successful artists often have to navigate through creative challenges and setbacks. It's a fascinating glimpse into the creative process, offering fans a deeper appreciation for the music they love. As Folds continues to innovate and inspire, this release serves as a testament to the enduring power of artistic exploration and the joy of discovering hidden treasures in the work of beloved artists.
