Search on DeBaser Reviews Americana

 Chesnutt crafts poetry out of the struggles and pains of life.

 His voice may be unconventional, but it’s always deeply honest and affecting.

This review praises Vic Chesnutt's 'West of Rome' for its emotional songwriting and distinctive storytelling. The reviewer highlights Chesnutt's poetic lyricism and unique voice within the folk rock genre. The album is described as both heartfelt and impactful. Listeners are encouraged to experience the depth and nuance Chesnutt brings to his music. 'West of Rome' stands out as a moving and memorable work. Dive into 'West of Rome' and discover Vic Chesnutt's unforgettable lyricism for yourself!

 "Its darkness and experimentation form a cohesive emotional landscape."

 "Carey Mercer's work stands out in a sea of indie releases."

The review explores 'Skin of Evil' by Blackout Beach, highlighting its dark, experimental sound and evocative lyrics. The critic praises the album’s immersive atmosphere and compelling storytelling. Carey Mercer's distinctive vocal delivery and songwriting are noted as standout elements. The review suggests the album appeals to fans of unique, boundary-pushing indie music. Overall, it receives a high rating and is recommended for listeners seeking depth. Dive into our review of 'Skin of Evil' and experience Blackout Beach like never before!

 A masterclass in melancholic songwriting and emotional sincerity.

 ‘April’ stands as a luminous peak in Sun Kil Moon’s discography.

The review highly praises 'April' by Sun Kil Moon, commending its emotional depth and atmospheric sound. The author's nuanced writing highlights Mark Kozelek's exceptional songwriting and the album’s lasting impact. The review emphasizes the captivating experience the album provides for indie folk fans. It's described as a standout in the genre and essential listening for music lovers. Dive into our review and experience the emotional journey of 'April' by Sun Kil Moon!

 Cuppone is a Veronese guitarist, let’s say an integralist.

 Arpeggios that evoke intimate and emotional concerts with a few guests in one of the many Venetian villas.

Pietro Cuppone's album Nobody's Home features primarily baritone and classical guitar, creating intimate and emotional atmospheres. Two tracks introduce unique sounds with a Middle Eastern cello and a Gibson electric guitar. The music evokes timeless settings reminiscent of small concerts in Venetian villas. The album is a contemplative instrumental journey, rated moderately. Listen to Nobody's Home to immerse yourself in intimate guitar journeys blending classical and exotic sounds.

 "You don’t need powerful voices and a large number of instruments to tell small stories."

 "Ron Frangipane’s arrangements blend with the words without ever overshadowing them, always pleasant and capable of enhancing every movement of her soul."

Janis Ian's 'Between the Lines' is a nuanced album that combines intimate storytelling with delicate musical arrangements. Though not widely recognized, the album evokes childhood memories and nostalgia with sensitivity. Ron Frangipane's arrangements enhance Ian's lyrical expression without overpowering it. The song 'At Seventeen' stands out as the album's highlight. Overall, the album showcases Ian's place between Joan Baez and Tracy Chapman in folk music history. Listen to Janis Ian’s Between the Lines and experience heartfelt stories told with delicate musical charm.

 This album has comforted, moved, amused, and above all reassured me: benzodiazepines at 33 rpm.

 While the music plays, I end up truly believing it. And it matters little if the illusion lasts only 43 minutes and 35 seconds, as I can play it again and again and again.

The Purple Bird by Bonnie 'Prince' Billy is a comforting, collaborative album recorded in Nashville with a strong country influence. The reviewer was moved and reassured by its heartfelt songs and collaborative spirit. The album blends traditional methods with contemporary songwriting, highlighted by contributions from Nashville musicians and legends like John Anderson. Themes range from personal reflection to social commentary, all wrapped in a warm, familiar sound. Explore Bonnie 'Prince' Billy's The Purple Bird and experience a heartfelt journey through Nashville's country roots. Listen now to feel the comfort.

 The closing track 'Cloudy Day' truly conveys that idea of 'Tulsa Sound'… a relaxed fusion of various genres from country-rock to blues and rockabilly with some jazzy undertones.

 'Every time I listen to it, it’s like taking a break in an armchair savoring my favorite brand of beer.'

J.J. Cale's 1981 album Shades delivers a cohesive mix of Tulsa Sound characterized by a smooth blend of country-rock, blues, and jazz elements. The review highlights key tracks, including the instrumental 'Cloudy Day,' which perfectly epitomizes Cale's style. His influence on artists like Eric Clapton and Mark Knopfler is evident throughout. While not groundbreaking, the album offers a comfortable, enjoyable listening experience with minimalist packaging. Recommended for fans seeking laid-back, expertly played music. Listen to J.J. Cale's Shades and experience the timeless Tulsa Sound vibe today!

 A simple yet powerful word like an invocation: the cry of slaves in revolt, but also the hope of the oppressed capable of igniting the hearts of thousands of young people and pushing them to want to change the world.

 'Something Else Again' is his second studio folk album, a folk gem blending rhythm, social consciousness, and unique instrumentation.

The review highlights Richie Havens' 1967 album 'Something Else Again' as a significant folk record showcasing his unique guitar techniques and warm voice. It emphasizes the album's social themes, diverse instrumentation, and connection to the Woodstock era. The review praises Havens' dedication to music and activism, underlining his influential role in folk and social movements. Overall, it recommends the album as a timeless folk gem. Listen to Richie Havens' 'Something Else Again' and experience the soulful rhythms of 60s folk and social change.

 God exists, dear people, lives in an acropolis where everything is analog and wonderfully imperfect.

 The sound leaves me speechless, beautiful. How did people record back then?

This review explores the profound analog sound and exquisite harmonies in Crosby, Stills & Nash’s debut album. The reviewer recounts acquiring a weathered vinyl copy and experiencing its imperfect yet beautiful sonic texture. The review emphasizes the sensory and emotional power of sound, the magic of analog recording, and the genius behind the album’s musical intricacies. It celebrates the timeless appeal of analog music in a digital age. Dive into the legendary analog sound of Crosby, Stills & Nash—listen and feel the timeless harmony magic!

 "King riding along a beach at sunset takes us back to the album’s atmosphere, a typical sound of the latter half of the '70s."

 "The artistic imprint of this talented author will help many future songwriters to express themselves, from Sara Bareilles to Alicia Keys, and obviously including Taylor Swift."

The review explores Carole King's 1976 album Thoroughbred, highlighting its West Coast sound and strong songwriting after the monumental success of Tapestry. While not matching the iconic status of her earlier work, the album features contributions from well-known musicians and maintains lyrical depth. It marks the end of an era with her historic label Ode Records and the beginning of a slow artistic decline. Despite this, King’s influence endures among contemporary songwriters. Discover the timeless charm of Carole King's Thoroughbred—listen now and dive into her enduring 70s sound!

 It was an album ahead of the rest of the world, setting a trend without ever being cloned.

 I had missed the presentation of the track, if there had even been one, and so I started going around the record stores of the city trying to explain to the clerks this huge and beautiful bass line that was unlike anything else.

This review reflects on Joni Mitchell’s 1976 album Hejira, praising its originality and lasting impact nearly 50 years later. The album marks a mature period where Mitchell blends jazz with folk, collaborating with the L.A. Express and jazz great Jaco Pastorius. The reviewer shares a personal journey of discovering the album in the late 1980s, emphasizing its timeless allure and how it sparked interest in other iconic singer-songwriters. Hejira is celebrated as a unique, influential milestone in Mitchell’s career and music history. Listen to Hejira today and explore the rich fusion of jazz and folk that defines Joni Mitchell’s timeless classic.

 Sometimes melancholy, but with an end-of-summer melancholy, when you don’t want to know what you’re leaving behind and you can’t know what you’ll find.

 Without even knowing how, Haley captures it and puts it into music.

Haley Heynderickx's album 'I Need to Start a Garden' offers simple, crystalline acoustic folk songs that blend melancholy with warmth and natural imagery. The review highlights her ability to capture subtle emotions akin to the passing seasons, with a familiar and disarming style. While sometimes festive and other times disillusioned, the music remains intimate and poetic. The reviewer feels inspired by the album's connection to nature and personal reflection. Listen to Haley Heynderickx's poetic folk songs in I Need to Start a Garden and immerse yourself in her warm acoustic world.

 The Killer is an album that contains sinister and extraordinarily beautiful songs like "Clarksville" and "No Man's Land".

 Like Jim Thompson's novel, the eponymous album by Green On Red speaks of each of us. Of the darkness we have deep in our souls and the killer we can glimpse every time we look at a reflective surface.

Green On Red's album The Killer Inside Me draws deeply from Jim Thompson's noir novel, exploring the darker sides of the American psyche through gritty urban rock. Produced by Jim Dickinson, this 1987 release marks a departure from the band's earlier country rock sound toward a harder, more metropolitan style. Featuring raw and emotionally charged performances led by Danny Stuart, the album offers bitter ballads and vivid storytelling reflecting despair, darkness, and American decay. Though initially met with mixed reviews, it stands today as a compelling snapshot of a restless era and soul. Dive into Green On Red's The Killer Inside Me and experience the gritty, dark heart of American rock.

 No Free Lunch is the erratic wandering through the desert dust, towards the boundless horizon.

 The opening of "Time Ain't Nothing" is as fresh as the desert breeze at dawn.

No Free Lunch by Green On Red captures a unique moment in 80s music with its strong country and roots revival vibe. Dan Stuart's vocals and Chuck Prophet's guitar work shine on tracks like the Willie Nelson cover and original desert ballads. The album anticipates the band's later evolution, blending psychedelia with Americana themes. Despite not achieving widespread success at the time, it stands as a highly crafted and atmospheric record. Dive into Green On Red's No Free Lunch and experience a timeless blend of desert country and psychedelic blues today!

 "This record remains indissolubly linked to a drive through the desolate summer countryside... because Rock ’n’ Roll... has the power to evoke memories with just a handful of notes and make them indelible."

 "The Man with the Blue Postmodern Fragmented Neo-Traditionalist Guitar is a forgotten treasure, a sack full of silver, as Thin White Rope would say."

Peter Case’s 1989 album 'The Man With the Blue Postmodern Fragmented Neo-Traditionalist Guitar' is a vivid journey through Americana, blending rock, folk, and blues. The review highlights evocative imagery, strong musicianship, and emotional storytelling. With contributions from artists like Ry Cooder and David Hidalgo, the album is praised as a forgotten treasure reminiscent of Springsteen and Dylan. It captures the fading American dream through ten compelling tracks that evoke nostalgia and rural landscapes. Discover the soulful journey of Peter Case’s iconic album and experience Americana like never before.

 A sincere and painful work, consisting mostly of heartfelt twilight ballads enriched by Dan's poignant voice.

 An album written from the heart, by a man fighting against his demons with a fistful of anger and another of aching sweetness.

The Deliverance Of Marlowe Billings marks a powerful comeback for Dan Stuart, reflecting his struggles with addiction, loss, and survival. This autobiographical concept album blends heartfelt ballads and rock elements, enhanced by the Italian band Sacri Cuori. The songs evoke cinematic and desert landscapes, balancing melancholy with hope. Praised as a 'little masterpiece,' the album offers a raw and intimate portrait of a man fighting his demons. Listen to Dan Stuart’s powerful comeback album and dive into a deeply personal musical journey today!

 Knowing how to play well is not enough. It requires something else, something that touches the spirit.

 A very peaceful and calm home that transmits serenity. A place to rest before setting off on one’s travels again.

Ben Harper teams up with his wife Ellen on 'Childhood Home,' an acoustic, folk-inspired album celebrating roots and home life. The album features simple yet soulful music with lyrics that touch the spirit. Its peaceful and calm ambiance offers a reflective space, underpinned by heartfelt performances. Both artists contribute equally to the intimate and warm mood of the record. Listen to Ben & Ellen Harper's heartfelt 'Childhood Home' and experience a soulful journey into family and roots.

 The singer's voice strikes. Sweet yet at times angry. Sure and clear.

 Better a wail like this than a thousand fake joys. This is awareness and strength.

The Lumineers' 2012 debut album presents a powerful folk rock experience marked by soulful vocals and emotional honesty. The trio delivers music that encourages reflection and genuine feeling. Despite its subtle and subdued tone, the album is engaging and rich in quality tracks like "Ho Hey" and "Dead Sea." The review praises the album’s authenticity and lasting impact. Listen to The Lumineers' debut for a soulful folk journey full of heartfelt moments and timeless melodies.

 The name is enough. Even crap becomes gold.

 Leave this Bob Dylan album alone. No originality. Background choruses. 80s arrangements, typical of the worst commercial radio music of those years.

The review harshly criticizes Bob Dylan’s Empire Burlesque for its lack of originality and reliance on dated 80s commercial rock sounds. The reviewer dismisses the album as uninspired and questions Dylan's artistic intentions. Only the last track, 'Dark Eyes,' is noted with mild interest. Overall, the review expresses frustration at the album’s quality and production choices. Discover a candid take on Bob Dylan’s Empire Burlesque—dive into the full review and listen to decide for yourself!

 This isn’t a self-congratulatory album or a collection for completionists, but it is a perfectly successful album in every aspect.

 In the Blue Light feels like a great party among friends who still have much to say to each other.

In The Blue Light is Paul Simon's 2018 album featuring 10 creatively reimagined tracks from his catalog. The album highlights Simon's dedication to thoughtful arrangements and collaborations with prominent jazz musicians. It reflects a mature artist enjoying his craft, offering fresh takes on both older and more recent songs. The review appreciates the album as a meaningful addition to Simon's distinguished career, marking a peaceful transition toward his retirement. Discover Paul Simon's heartfelt reinterpretations on In The Blue Light and experience timeless songs in a new light!