Metamatic Forums Socialising The Green Room NUMAN

I've just taken delivery of the new Jagged Edge double CD set. Basically all the tracks are either versions of Jagged tracks completed with earlier production partners and subsequently re-worked or new versions(by eventual Jagged co-producer Ade Fenton) of some others.

Based on a first couple of listening I'd say this is a worthwhile project, albeit far too long being released. I managed only one listen on the big sound system at home last evening and it sounded very impressive, much better than a first listen on the crappy little PC speakers at work!!!

Still too early to say which tracks are better / worse / different to the originals but probably safe to say of you enjoyed Pure and / or Jagged then there'll be something here to interest you. If you're not a fan of those two then I don't think Jagged Edge is going to change your mind.

Going to get it even though I am expecting the worst.

I think it rather good

But why?

I felt Jagged was one of Numan's best albums of late, and given that it went through several changes during its creation, I think the ida of releaseing an album of the other versions is a rather cool idea. I'm sure some versions will be different, others superior and some just not as good.

I've only heard sound clips, but I plan to buy the album.

Not really a fan of 'Jagged' but i can play any of the 2 discs from 'Jagged Edge' much easier. The re-works lift the atmosphere and keep it interesting.

I think 'Jagged' and 'Pure' for that matter are a step back from 'Exile'. There was more of a 'numan factor' to 'Exile' even though it was part of the so called industrial stuff. Still like the last two albums though, but i do feel hes slipping into a progressive rut just as he did with the 'middle years'.

Agreed but at least this 'progressive rut' doesnt have female backing vocals.

To my mind Pure is the best of the four so called industrial albums. Really liked the Sulpher production. Jagged would probably follow a close second. While I like both Sacrifice and Exile thay both sound more basic and demoish compared to the last two.

Having had Jagged Edge on rotation for a while now I would heartily recommend it, especially if you're a fan of the last couple of albums. Although that said there is also a very noticable attempt to re-create the keyboard driven vibe of old (try the new version of Scanner for instance).

I think Jagged was the first of Numan's later albums to embrace BOTH the old and new. You can hear many more of the old style synths in there than on any previous album.

My favourite Numan industrial albums are Sacrifice and Exile. I certainly think they boast the strongest songs, but as you say, the minimal production lets them both down. I have a hard time with Pure, although I don't dislike it.