James Gerard Roll wrote <Kelly Willis: A little flat and slick at first
impression but certain songs have really grown on me. What I cannot figure
out is why her cuts on compilations (i.e. Real: Tom T. Hall Project and Rig
Rock Deluxe) practically bring me to spasms of joy and are often my favorite
cuts on the comps. But Her solo albums always leave me a little let-down??>
Slonedog responds: Amen to that. If this album were as good as "Truckstop
Girl", I'd be spinning it constantly and never leave the house. Perhaps an
album with a real band backing her (Son Volt?) might serve her better than
the talented but slick-sounding conglomeration of musicians she has on this
album.
James continues:
<Wilco: ...I don't think that ALL of the songs are that strong (with the
exception of a few - She's a Jar, and a few others are Great!! -- although
the last line of She's a Jar is totally distracting and unnecessary IMO)>
Slonedog responds:
Actually I think "She's A Jar" is one of the weaker tunes on an otherwise
brilliant pop album. On the first couple of listens, I wasn't that
impressed with the first few tracks. For me the album really kicks in about
the fifth track with "I'm Always in Love". Then,
"Nothing'severgonnastandinmyway (Again)" really rocks my world. As for why
Tweedy might be borrowing so liberally from Brian Wilson... because he can.
James again:
<Steve and Del -- ...I agree with Dave and Terry
that I prefer the ultra eclectic Steve Earle records. But that said this is
fairly eclectic when you consider that he is using Del and the band for
Irish tunes, pop-folk ballads, and modern storytelling.>
Slonedog responds:
I think Steve can go overboard on the eclecticism at times. I thought while
some of the individual songs on "El Corazon" were brilliant, it doesn't
really hold together as a piece of work in the way that "Train-A-Comin'" or
even "I Feel Alright" do. While I can appreciate the disparate styles and
musicianship of say "NYC" and "I Still Carry You Around", I don't think it
necessarily serves either song to put them on the same album with each
other. That said, I agree with James' point about "The Mountain" being more
eclectic than it might get credit for being labeled an "exclusively
bluegrass" album. But I disagree that Steve would view any of these songs
as mere genre exercises when he sat down to write the album. As for the
"Train-A-Comin'" vs. "The Mountain" debate, both hold together well and will
alternate on the tape deck on many road trips to come. "The Mountain" might
get the nod for better production and more original songs but
"Train-A-Comin" will probably continue to be the sentimental favorite.
Just my 2 cents,
Slonedog
