Continuing my countdown of the songs on Ben Folds’ new album, What Matters Most…
#8 – ‘Moments’
I have album closer ‘Moments’ near the bottom of this list in part because it’s the song I’ve heard least since downloading the album. As with all of Folds’ music, I’m sure this one will grow on me even more with repeated listens.
For now, I’m finding the melody a little tough to latch on to. This is one of the only songs on the album I don’t find myself humming. But I do like the piano sound here, one that reminds me of excellent Folds songs like ‘Mess’ and ‘Jesusland.’
#7 – ‘Back to Anonymous’
Folds says he was inspired to write this song during the pandemic as he watched people walking around in masks. He sings from the perspective of a formerly famous person who now has the freedom of anonymity.
I can’t imagine that, even at the height of his popularity, Folds was ever somebody getting stopped in the street. But he is certainly more withdrawn from the public life of a celebrity than ever before, so I assume this song is at least lightly autobiographical.
Musically, I love the Western swerve ‘Back to Anonymous’ takes around the midpoint when the harmonica kicks in.
These days
It doesn’t matter, I can let myself go
No disguise, just go for a stroll
It’s back to anonymous
But those years were
One big blur
I’m not sure where I have been
I dream the pieces back now and then
Mmm-hmm
[Chorus]
Is it cliche?
Does it sound so ungrateful
When it comes out that way?
If so, I only mean to say
Thank you for those crazy days
But it’s back to anonymous
[Verse 2]
Strangers
Creepy and comfortable that they knew my name
It’s not at all what I thought that fame would be
It was just a small world
For a while
Is life better now?
Well, that depends on how I’m feeling about it
It’s not so much that I wanted out
I really didn’t have a say
[Chorus]
But it’s a big world
With un-famous people who deserve
The grand applause
And they quietly carry on
I’d like to think that I could be that strong
Daydreaming on the bus, that’s all
Now it’s back to anonymous
[Instrumental Interlude]
[Verse 3]
The wife and I
Feeding the birds, in love
In comfortable clothes
The neighbors, they don’t wink like they know
[Chorus]
But back when they’d say
Savor this moment
It’s your time
Seize the day
But I couldn’t stay awake
And I didn’t feel a thing
And she reminds me when I start to think
I might throw my hat back in the ring
But it’s time to be…
Meet Me In Montauk 
The first couple of listens, I though the title track was the closer, and I kinda think it should have been. That said, “Moments” is a good song.
I was drawn into “Anonymous” from first listen, and assumed it to be autobiographical. The song, however, that most immediately drew me in was “Kristine,” which I am pleased will be higher in your rankings.
Fragile has been my top favorite with repeat listens – I’ll put that out there for the record 😂
I really enjoy the harmonies happening in ‘Moments’ though I agree that I also have a difficult time latching onto the melody.
‘Back to Anonymous’ is also growing on me with repeat listens – I especially love the harmonica swerve you pointed out. I’m not sure any songs have covered this aspect of covid and fame in such a way.
I love “Back to Anonymous”!! Definitely one of the tracks that grabbed me first listen. I think it’s so interesting and cool that celebrities are taking advantage of the aftermath of the pandemic to provide themself with a little respite from the public eye. That could be withholding themselves on social media or literally wearing a mask to go out in public. Little, subtle ways that artists get a feeling of agency over their public persona. I agree that Folds never had to deal with the magnitude of being a celebrity, but having a hit song or two can certainly make you feel very scene! I would have this one a bit higher on my personal list, but view that as a solid ranking.