More typical, however, is Davies’ sly and subtle approach. In the “be careful what you wish for category” lies “Peace in Our Time,” comprised of an ambivalence that, without mentioning Chamberlain-era wartime appeasement, still could have fit into the 1969 Kink concept classic Arthur (Or the Decline and Fall of the British Empire). Similarly, an account of a frustrating parting of the red tape retold in “No One Listen” recalls 1970's Lola vs. the Powerman & the Money-Go-Round, Pt. 1, one of the Kinks most rough-edged and agitation-ridden recordings.
Soothed and smoothed to “Celluloid Heroes” perfection, or perhaps reminiscent of a song from one of the Kink’s ‘70s-era rock operas, the gorgeous “Imaginary Man” suggests some skewed self-identification for an artist perhaps too accustomed to living “other people’s lives”:
- Walked down to Preservation Hall
Looking for the old trad band
It was just a momentary glance
I saw my reflection in the glass
Watched as the world went flashing past
I knew the face but could not tell
Why I couldn't recognise myself
I am, I am imaginary
I am, I am imaginary
I'm the imaginary man…
It’s as if every day, and for over 40 years, Ray Davies still looks at the world from his window, taking notes. Comforting thought, somehow.
Article comments
1 - Josh Hathaway
I thought of you when I almost picked this up last night. I might have to soon correct myself and grab a copy.
2 - Gordon Hauptfleisch
Grab it. I was surprised an album with such strengths -- especially "Imaginary Man" and "The Real World" -- came along so quickly on the heels of the 2006 album.
3 - Connie Phillips
Congrats! This article has been forwarded to the Advance.net websites and Boston.com.
4 - bill
Excellent review. One of the few that have picked up on the finer, slower tunes. They are worth the price of the record and I have all of them. Keep up the good work!
5 - Gordon Hauptfleisch
Thank you Connie -- much appreciated.
6 - Gordon Hauptfleisch
Bill: It seems to me that the slower tunes, with the dazzling, trademark Davies' melodies, are the perfect showcases for Ray's still-affecting and gorgeous vocals. Thanks for the comment.
7 - bliffle
I listened to about half the songs and I don't know if I'll finish it or not. Frankly, everything sounds recycled and derivative.