Item: Bonnie "Prince" Billy - Master and Everyone
Rating: 5
Author: Hal

LA RECENSIONE

Beautiful. Truly beautiful, this fourth album by Bonnie "Prince" Billy, known in real life as Will Oldham, formerly a member of Palace. So beautiful that it is truly difficult to find the words to describe it.

Introspective and simple are the first adjectives that come to mind. All the tracks are, in fact, characterized by few acoustic guitar chords and the raw and dry voice of Will Oldham, as in the opening track, "The Way".

There are few exceptions to this pattern, designed with the complicity of Mark Nevers' production from Lambchop. In some songs, such as "Ain't You Wealthy" and "Hard Life," Oldham's almost painful voice is joined by the discreet and whispered voice of Marty Slayton. Occasionally, there are tiny (and beautiful) enhancements: a cello surfaces, a gentle organ, an accordion, or a hint of strings. Originality is certainly not its main virtue. We are, in fact, in the realm of well-established American folk.

However, in just 34 minutes, the Louisville singer-songwriter manages, without ever being clichéd, to move and bring to mind, with his melancholy and bitterness, artists like Nick Drake, Neil Young, and John Martyn. Excuse me if that’s not much.

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Summary by Bot

This review praises Bonnie 'Prince' Billy's fourth album Master and Everyone as a beautifully introspective folk record. The album features sparse acoustic arrangements and raw vocals that create a deeply emotional atmosphere. Mark Nevers' production adds subtle instrumental touches without overwhelming the simplicity. While not groundbreaking, it resonates with the spirit of American folk legends like Nick Drake and Neil Young. Overall, it stands out as a moving and heartfelt work.

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