“It’s Not You It’s Me” is a Julian original that’s steeped heavily in the honky tonk, hardwood floor tradition. He displays his talents as a songwriter, a talent we’ll see from other Willies a little further along on this disk. This slow yet lively number is set ablaze by the excellent musicianship of this band working together. And again Norah Jones’ vocals just knock me out.
With the next track we jump once again, this time with the cool wit of a Kris Kristofferson tune “Best Of All Possible Worlds.” This time our guitar hero picks us into a frenzied otherworld. Campilongo’s super-charged solos bring to mind the work of rockabilly guitar legend Paul Burleson, rocking and jumping, yet controlled and not over the top. Alexander’s bass work is outstanding here as well as is Reiser’s drumming. The backbone of this band shows that they have mastered that steady-as-a-driving-train rhythm.
Julian lets us hear his passionate baritone vocals on Townes Van Zandt’s “No Place To Fall.” Another excellent showcase of this band’s talents, and I can’t stress the fact enough that these cats are good. In “Roll On” we get another original tune, this one from bass man Alexander. Let me say this here, until this album I’ve never paid much attention to Norah Jones, but with this track especially, Miss Jones officially has a new fan. Her passion-filled, heartfelt delivery makes this track one of the album’s strongest songs.
The Willies do two very good Willie Nelson covers, perhaps a clue to the origins of the band’s name. With “Gotta Get Drunk” Jones lets us see a playful side of her vocals, and you can’t help smiling at her delivery and banter, not to mention that wonderful howl. “There’s more old drunks than there are good doctors/So Jim take another round,” which he does happily, making another powerful guitar run. The second Nelson number, “Nightlife,” is a solid country blues once more led by Jones’ vocals and skill with the 88’s.
“Streets of Baltimore” is another song that belongs on this album. Its pure country sound and sorrowful lyrics are another perfect fit for Julian’s vocals. He makes you feel for this fellow who tries to make his lady happy even though he’s not so enthused and winds up losing her to those darn streets of Baltimore. “Tennessee Stud” is a fun western story song, reminiscent of classics by Marty Robbins, that the band romps through with ease, highlighting their ability to move smoothly from track to track. This tune stands out for its rolling piano and out-of-sight guitar work; its infectious thump and shuffle beat make it a solid country rocker.
Article comments
1 - Lono
Bicho, great piece. I am crazy in love with this CD. I feel powerless against the charms of 'Streets of Baltimore', and am probably going to draft up a piece on same album for here as well.