Artist: Loudon Wainwright III
Title: Here Come The Choppers!
Genre: Folk-Rock-Country
Label: Sovereign Artists
E Card
Loudon Wainwright III is one of those artists that you never forget once you hear him. His unique blend of storytelling pushed along with folk-rock-country melodies leave a lasting impression.
Here Come The Choppers! continues to solidify Wainwright’s place amongst the greats such a singer/guitar playing poets such as Dylan (who Wainwright actually sounds like at times) and Eric Anderson. He has stellar accompaniment on the new release. Veteran guitar players such as Bill Frisell, who seems to be popping up everywhere lately, and Jim Keltner, whose name is synonymous with recording excellence, make the musical backdrop a sparkling tapestry for Wainwright to layer his distinct vocals upon.
The more you listen to this album, the more the words sink in, and then the music becomes a logical extension of each individual story. As it all unravels before you, the pieces of the puzzle start to come together, musically and lyrically. Wainwright sounds as if he is singing about the real deal, life on life’s terms, straight up with no chaser to make it go down easier. Then again, artists like this do not pull any punches; every song is a tale of the heart, filled with passion, humor and the kid next-door kind of homespun down to earth feelings.
The last album I heard from this man was in 2001 right after 9/11, aptly titled Last Man on Earth. This recording does not come close with the grim subject matter of that album but it still is a story with a beating heart. Wainwright’s music always pulls me in and makes me listen-it is very powerful. With that said, I am sure you have made your decision whether or not this is for you.
I love music like this and Loudon Wainwright III restores my faith in humanity and music.
April 15, 2005
Rating-9.5/10
Credits:
Loudon Wainwright III - vocals, acoustic guitar
Bill Frisell - electric guitar
Greg Leisz - lap steel, pedal steel, mandolin, electric guitar
David Piltch - acoustic and electric bass
Jim Keltner - drums, percussion
Additional musicians:
Coco Love Alcorn - vocals on "Hank and Fred" and "Had to Be Her"
Chris Gestrin - wurlitzer on "Had to Be Her", organ on "Make Your Mother Mad"
01. My Biggest Fan (6:01)
02. No Sure Way (5:29)
03. Had To Be Her (5:02)
04. Hank And Fred (4:55)
05. Half Fist (4:12)
06. To Be On TV (4:03)
07. God's Country (3:14)
08. Make Your Mother Mad (4:06)
09. When You Leave (5:22)
10. Nanny (3:12)
11. Choppers (6:41)
12. Things (4:05)
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