They don't buy a lot of records and they probably won't be around for the next record anyway. Though too much success is a problem most pop artists welcome, Hootie's overexposure and unrelenting reign have already triggered a critical backlash and could subject the band to some listener rejection. Initially merciful, critics have grown increasingly harsh, lambasting the band's spectacular rise as proof that mediocrity rules. The world is safe for Dockers again. It's baby food.
Critics look for some sort of energy and acuteness.
Azzoli isn't sweating the critics, nor is he concerned about fallout from Hootie's refusal to temporarily retreat from the airwaves. I know we'll get plenty of criticism. Welcome to the real world. Cracked Rear View is a magical record that probably can't be repeated. No matter what the record does, some people will call the band a one-hit wonder.