I bought this on the first day with no expectations. I didn't preview the tracks; I haven't ever downloaded from NPGMC, etc.

So, compared to a lot of you, I'm not a completist; even though I have all the music, boots, etc.

Bought 3121.

Man, on the very first spin I thought the CD sounded dated, uninspired.

But...it's been on almost non-stop since then at it's the most addictive album I've been into in ages.

So, is it a better "listen" for the non-hardcore?

I feel you sro100 I sample the album (15 sec each) at jr.com and was disappointed. But I am hard-core and went on to MSN.com that let the album play in its entirety.

I discovered 'Love" first, then "The Word", "Beautiful, Loved and Blessed","The Dance".

As the Prince.org survey suggests "The Word" is the best song on the album (to me). Give it some time and you'll discover "The Dance" is a Masterpiece. "Fury was love at first site on SNL.

I begin to understand "3121" just now. "Lolita" is good too.

I play it at home, in the car, at work.

I just hope Prince releases "Love", "The Word", "Fury", "Beautiful, Loved and Blessed", "The Dance" in that order please.

This album has staying power if the right songs are released in the right order.

Please, I love "3121", but DO NOT RELEASED IT, Radio is not ready for this, just like "Black Sweat" is not being played.

Peace
[Edited 3/24/06 21:34pm]

This is a great album for the "non-hardcore". It doesn't require any explanation as with other albums, it speaks for itself. Everyone that I have played it to loooves it. Can't wait for the tour.

Consider what the average listener buys nowadays, then 3121 will be more accessible for them...

rainbowchild said:

Definately a non-hardcore album.

For the masses. However, 3121 the title track is a nice give away for the hardcore's i think.

really dig the sounds in that song- some fantasic guitar intervals- off key yet work really well. brilliant.

The Dance is the most dramatic sounding on the album- that for me really hits home as it has lyrics that describe exactly how i feel at the moment, and the dramatic orchestra arrangements leave me very high indeed..

the rest is pretty much pop.