One way of verbally masking elite preemption of other people's decisions is to use the word 'ask'--as in 'We are just asking everyone to pay their fair share.' But of course governments do not ask, they tell. The Internal Revenue Service does not 'ask' for contributions. It takes." -
But that's just one view, right?
Though its nice to have these bootlegger's delights in one place, I do not find it as satisfying as his previous two cds of all new material.
Love And Theft is a tour de force, it's scorched ozone live immediacy hits the solar plexus. Bob and his band toss off a variety styles & genres without flinching. Not a hint of the dilettante, this music is as authentic as the sawdust on the floor, as thick as the smoke in the air. And the man's lyrics are stunning blends of serious whimsey & whimsical dread, couched in the timeless delivery of the bemused, terrified yet courtly gentleman.
Modern Times is a different kind of modern, the kind that never really goes into or out of style, its just always there. The music of a million garage bands across the world. But this is Bob Dylan we're talkin' about so of course nothing is quite as it seems as he's couching some very topical lyrical concerns in settings generally seen as archaic. It may not stand as tall as Love & Theft, but thats asking alot.
But if there's one thing this new CD does is illustrate how well Dylan uses his voice. The death gargle of Mississippi on the original release is replaced by smoother, less phlegmatic deliveries. His Blood On The Tracks voice makes an appearence on one version of Ain't Talkin'. There's still a version of Mississippi with Emmy Lou Harris that remains unreleased. (I guess thats like saying water is wet)
I Do very much like the live High Water(For Charlie Patton). The thunder rock treatment is exciting even if the comedic nuance gets blunted.
My Trusted MOGs
I dunno. I just love hearing this music. Havent wanted to hear much else for a week.
Love & Theft and Modern Times are as great as you say, in my estimation. TSS is a batch of works that benefits enormously from the context the earlier albums provide it. It's a rare gift for any artist that allows him to create variations, each of which sounds so human and real in its own way. That what it shows me.
I havent read a single review yet. I just love it, not sure all the reasons why.
My Trusted MOGs
You beat me to it, as I am on the wagon regarding CD purchases until 2009. But this is on the list! And this tune sounds great. Curious why you didn't spring for the 3-CD version (though I'm not sure of the difference...)
My Trusted MOGs
Nice...he did this song August 15th at MGM Grand. So raw...after all the genres he has gone through he is back to ole rock and roll, I love it. haven't listened to Love and Theft a lot acually
My Trusted MOGs
In recent years his lyrics have become brilliant compared to those from some of his earlier decades, and his melodies, while often borrowed or derivative, are perfectly serviceable. When someone at his level keeps his muse vibrant into late middle age, we're talking National Treasure. On the other hand, a year or two ago when I listened, from the wrong acoustical zone of a big auditorium, to his distant left profile in a concert, I didn't realize that he had sung some of my favorites of his until a friend pointed it out afterwards.