Memorable Landscape
Probably the best album so far of 2013, Jason Isbell’s Southeastern easily compares with
obvious other singer/songwriters like Ryan Adams, and you can hear Springsteen
and Arlo Guthrie in some songs – just naming company I think this album can
keep over time as well.
It is uncomplicated – the songs are beautifully written and
performed, all quite simple melodically but with nuances in where a line will
go and with the clever but understated arrangements. They are lyrically rich
too, storytelling that demands a listen. Two songs illustrate the range, though
the acoustic first reflects the norm, Elephant,
which is a candid and poignant account of drinking in a bar with a woman dying
of cancer, and it is a beautiful song which in this context is hauntingly
pretty and emotive. Then there’s the outright rocker Super 8, a foot-stomper, so that’s enough said there.
I had a listen today whilst out walking. Every single song
resonated and when that happens, you are closed in and occupy that musical
landscape. I didn’t get lost, but I so enjoyed where I had been.
No comments:
Post a Comment