Agreed -- but I say logical rather than simple! The key is Greg's playing and writing style (allmusic called it 'baroque' metal) that usually features some kind of sobbing lead melody over the rhythm, in any combination of guitar or keyboard, which is as true on 'Rapture' as it is on 'Ordinary Days'. He's a very original and accomplished songwriter.
I agree - the essence of Paradise Lost has always been the same. In fact, many Host songs could fit the new albums if there were distorted guitars and Nick sang more roughly. I bet the people complaining about the lack of guitars or that the album doesn't sound like PL haven't given it more than one listen: there are actually lots of guitars but they used many effects on them and the atmosphere's just as dark as anything else they've done.
I like Host a lot, but One Second is my least favorite PL. It just feels undercooked or something. But maybe now that I'm into the Sisters of Mercy I should try revisiting that.
I like both albums but I find Host a tad more consistent. OS has some of their best songs like Mercy, Another Day and This Cold Life but Host is more solid overall.
My ranking changes all the time so I won't bother to do one here. Instead, I'll list my favorite song from each album (the ones I've heard, anyway):
Gothic: The Painless
SOG: No Forgiveness
Icon: Forging Sympathy
DT: Yearn for Change
OS: Mercy
Host: In All Honesty
SOL: title-track or Pray Nightfall
S/T: Over the Madness (the solo:
)
IR: Requiem
FDUDUU: Living with Scars
TI: Solitary One
I bought The Anatomy of Melancholy DVD yesterday and will watch it tomorrow when I have time. Judging by the setlists and the videos I've seen, I'll probably enjoy it a lot!