Other original blues tunes dominate this release. “Po’ Boy” is right out of the 1920’s. “Sugar Baby” can almost be imagined as being played at a funeral procession in New Orleans. “Bye and Bye” has been used in his live act and the sweet music provides shelter from the intensity of the lyrics. “Summer Days” almost makes a turn into an early country swing sound.
The most memorable track on the album is “Mississippi.” It is a melodic folk ballad of alienation and regret. Both Sheryl Crow and The Dixie Chicks would change this song around and create memorable versions.
"Love and Theft" is an album I do not play enough. When I do give it a spin I find new delights. Bob Dylan proved, that even as his life entered its sixth decade, he is still a master of his craft.
Article comments
1 - Dude Skoodle
"The only problem I have with the album is his voice. It has a gruffness and sounds lower than in the past, but he manages to get by."
Dave you keep repeating this. My grandparents and assorted squares said this stuff in 1968 and ever since.
He's a blues folk vernacular down home singer. Its part of the genre. If he sung like Perry Como he wouldn't be Dylan and nobody would have heard of him.
Dave quit repeating this mindless claptrap- no offence... I mean you are a fellow Dylan fan.
Oh yeah Robert Johnson is a good guitar player but I wish he played like Segovia. Oh why doesn't he play like Mark Knofler.
It is so unoriginal to whine about his voice. He has been singing rough for 40 years. Will you ever get it old chap?
No offence though Dave. He is only a musician I suppose. I know people who play the guitar better than him... but then they are not Bob Dylan.
2 - David Bowling
I like your comment about something your grandparents would say. I bought my first Dylan album in 1965 so that makes me about your grandparents age and definately square. I appreciate your reading my reviews and all the comments. Thanks, David