I’ve never heard this album before. I’m only familiar with one of the tracks (“When Love Breaks Down”). But, since it shows up on the 1001 Albums list I thought I’d take a chance and give it a whirl. Plus, if Dolby was involved I am sure I'll enjoy it (since I'm such a huge fan of his work). So, this will be another first-time-listening review (all based on initial impressions).
“Faron Young” opens side one. It has a rockabilly feel to it with the twanging guitars - very upbeat. I like it a lot.
“Bonny” has a gentle swing to it as it opens. The very subdued approach really forces you to listen. It is a song about separation and love lost. Another pleasant track.
“Appetite” continues along the same vein musically. It is straight up pop music, which I tend to like a lot.
The single “When Love Breaks Down” did much better on the UK charts when it was re-released in 1985 (reaching number 25). This is a song I have on my iPod already (it was on a compilation CD I had). It is a good song - a nice candidate for a mix tape when you’re looking for something a little less known.
“Goodbye Lucille #1” is next. Not sure where the song title comes from, given their singing about Johnny most of the song. Interesting way to go.
“Hallelujah” closes the first side. It has a smooth jazzy swing to it.
Side two opens with “Moving the River”. This reminds me a little of Joe Jackson or Donald Fagen, which is a good thing. The song definitely picks up as it goes.
“Horsin’ Around” is next. “Desire As” follows. I’m starting to see the songs blurring. I hoped that “Blueberry Pies” would break the spell. No such luck.
The album ends with “When the Angels”, and finally we get a little variety. The organ opening is nice, and the tempo picks up after three very slow moving songs. I guess it was time for a wake up call, thankfully.
Overall, the album was just okay for me. The arrangements on a number of the songs contain similar elements and keep the same pacing. The vocals are pleasant enough, if not a little too soothing. This would make for good background music for brunch - not too distracting.
I don’t really don’t see myself actively seeking out much from this album, unfortunately. There were a couple tracks I liked well enough, but not enough to go urgently download.
Great review, Martin.
ReplyDeleteThis album was introduced to me by a British friend one summer while I was going through a difficult relationship, far apart and far from home. I heard it often.
Now, I can't really listen to this album save for a couple random times every other year or so.
When music is so meaningful to us (even for those difficult times) we never forget it. It is part of our make-up. Thanks for reading and sharing.
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