antiMusic.com: The BoDeans

The BoDeans - Still Review

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That's right. The BoDeans are still at it. This album begins with "Pretty Ghost," a song with a reverb-drenched guitar part that wouldn't sound out of place in a Drive-By Truckers song. The song also contains some excellent poly-rhythms (standard and hand drums). This song and "Breathe" (especially "Breathe") are two of the darker songs on this album.

But fear not, this album also contains a song that is bound to get you moving. "Lucille" has a big sound with great rhythm and a twangy guitar. If this song doesn't make you want to shake what your mama gave you, check your vital signs. This album has a couple other songs ("The First Time" and "Waste a Lifetime") that are bound to get lodged in the old coconut. The organ in "The First Time" reminds me a bit of The Band. Don't be surprised if you find yourself singing or humming this tune throughout the course of your day.

Overall, this album, produced by T-Bone Burnett is just a clinic in good songwriting. The lyrics and the music are all incredibly well done. I'd like to say that this is a great album to listen to if you're experiencing writer's block. And it is. I'd like to think that a blocked songwriter could get some inspiration from this album. That is not to say that this album is only for someone who is stuck trying to write a song. This is just a great flipping album. Period. If you enjoy well-crafted, complex, and catchy Americana music, you should dig this one.

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The BoDeans - Still
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