The Lost Weekend is sloppy at times, but it is an inspired sloppiness. Wynn and Stuart sing like they are life long pals and the backing players really cook, especially Chris Cacavas on the piano. The songs are populated with drifters, losers, dreamers, gamblers, and drinkers. It’s all done with an aw, shucks boozy feeling which makes you want to head for the nearest dive bar to get drunk on cheap beer. “Song For The Dreamers” is an exuberant ode to anti-heroes, Al Capone and Fidel Castro both makes an appearance, while “Miracle Mile” conveys the sinister depths of a gambler on a losing streak. “Send Me A Postcard” has a sing along chorus, “we’re two brothers home on the range, long on talk, but short on change” that always gets me smiling. There’s good natured camaraderie reminiscent of Waylon and Willie.
It was very appealing to me in 1985 and the appeal has lasted. I didn’t become the next Kerouac and after reading about his last alcoholic years I’m glad. The “Paisley Underground” artists all made some good albums, and even though they didn’t have a huge impact on the mainstream their legacy is secure. It may not be psychedelic and it may have just been done on a lark, but The Lost Weekend is for me the best album to come out of that scene.
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Article comments
1 - Vern Halen
This is a nice addendum to the article on the Paisley Underground last week.
Danny & Dusty wasn't my fave album, but it got its share of turntable time, and oddly enough, got me into the Long Ryders, whom I hadn't heard of yet.
I know there's been attempts to put together a decent PU compilation, but there needs to be a definitive overview that includes all the important bands.
2 - House of Mercy ltd
Danny and Dusty
Unique one of tour never to be repeated
April 16th 2007 Dingwalls Camden London
Doors 7pm