ROLAND ORZABAL TOMCATS SCREAMING OUTSIDE ALBUM EAGLE, PLAYGROUND RELEASE: MARCH 26, 2001 REVIEW: APRIL 19, 2001

Roland Orzabal and Curt Smith parted on rather bitter terms after releasing "Seeds of Love" in 1989. It generated the world-wide hit "(Sowing) the Seeds of Love" and sold millions of copies. At present day, however, the word is that the two have resolved their differences and will reform Tears for Fears in a near future.
In the meantime we are treated this, the first Roland Orzabal solo effort. "Tomcats Screaming Outside" is like a giant squid, with widely spread tentacles. Grunge, ambient, pop, rock, electropop, trip hop. He tries several genres, with varying result. I hate to admit it, but nothing sticks. Everything is polished, carefully executed and the song-writing is strong. Strong, but not necessarily interesting.
"For the Love of Cain" is breezy pop with impressive vocals and a handful of the other songs are also pleasant ear lube, but as a whole, "Tomcats Screaming Outside" is neither here nor there. A generous average.
Pop in Tears for Fears' debut classic "The Hurting" once more instead. It'll do you good.

NIKLAS FORSBERG