Thrown Down: What Makes the Song

[CarneVaca]

I had not heard the demo of "Thrown Down," so this song is very new to me. I would not be surprised if this becomes the first single, since Stevie does lead vocals and the song contains the signature lead guitar sound that will be imediately recognizable. Or perhaps the label, after leaking this, will release some other song as the first single and thereby attempt to create more excitement around the album release.

Now, for the song. I like it. I especially like Lindsey's layered guitar treatment, which he used so masterfully in Out of the Cradle. The arpeggio during the verses, which has rightly received kudos on these boards already, the acoustic strumming, the muted notes and the sparse electric guitar embellishments are all tastefully done. There seem to be at least five guitar tracks in the mix, adding a nice rich texture to the song. I also like the Hammond organ in the background. I only wish Lindsey had thought of adding the Hammond to his sound long ago because I love that instrument.

The harmonies are well placed and Lindsey's voice is blending well with Stevie's The background vocals add a nice touch.

The song's weakness, and here's where I'm going to get targeted with rotten produce, frankly, is the lyrics. To begin, there have been way too many songs written about failed relationships, and this song is rather bland lyrically. It is very hard anymore to say something fresh about this topic. About the only interesting image in the song is the barricade being thrown down, which makes you think while you process that image in your mind's eye. The rest of the words to me are ho-hum. And I wish Stevie would use some self-discipline and stop using words like "baby." Her penchant for writing in the third person, to me, is a little distracting. Songs are most effective when written in first or second person. She does switch to the second person along the way, but it is a confusing, therefore ineffective, switch.

I like the song. It's going to be one of those that I will listen to because it sounds good, it has a nice melody but my ear simply won't pick up the words because they don't mean much to me.

Now, folks, jump in on the discussion, but remember, I like the song and I am not trying to diss anyone here. What do you think about the song?