From the get-go, it's clear that this is a blues album, and a very good one at that. What may not so quickly be clear is that this is a Blue album. In the world of American music, Blue is someone very special. This multi-faceted man with one name slips across the spectrum of musical genres like a chameleon-spirit, constantly mutating into something he has never been before. The quality of everything he does ranges from near-excellent to something far beyond what we might normally consider excellent, and his work is always original and creative. This release is no exception.
Blue is a fringe artist, the sort that appeals to a niche audience who can appreciate his very eclectic, even eccentric, approach to music and performance. In a way, that's a shame. After releasing wonderful, quirky, independent records for well over fifteen years, Blue should by now be an American icon. Blue's work epitomizes the drive and creativity upon which America prides itself. Unfortunately, American audiences seem to eschew the creative in favour of what is safe and mundane.
The performances on this set are powerful. Blue puts everything he has into his performance, driving it with guts and emotion that's sure to shake up even the most blasé listener. This is blues with feeling. The sound is big and driven, rocking electric blues, yet it has the solid emotive feel of the old field recordings of classic blues artists. To hear this music is an experience not to be missed.
Blue is a musical man for all seasons. He writes, records, sings, plays, and films his music, and manages to achieve a level of excellence in about everything he does. Each CD he releases is a unified work of art yet is different than anything he has done before or since. The Blue experience is constantly changing and constantly a surprise.
Something Borrowed Something presents the very best of Blue. The lyrics are exceptional. The singing voice is big, powerful, and dramatic. The guitar work rivals the best you've heard anywhere. The orchestrations are full and gutsy, driving the songs forward with unstoppable energy.
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