Customer Reviews

Dust Bowl Revival

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
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1 star:		(0)

 

 

I've just written (and deleted) around 500 words explaining how and why Ox is a man people should be forced to listen to. However, I've decided that it was all a little unnecessary and all that really needs to be said is that the man is a genius. His lyrics are insightful, humourous, rediculous, and heart-breaking. 'Carolinah' is quite simply one of the most beautiful songs ever written, 'LA City' will have you singing along way after the cd has finished. 'North Country Girl', a sad, yet strangely uplifting ode to lost love, the song of the album. Talking about his 'old turntable' he says in a tired voice, "where the needle has broke off/ God only knows". Metaphors aside, Dust Bowl Revival is an incredible album. It makes you smile ('Stolen Bike') breaks your heart ('Oh Eileen', 'Carolinah') and makes you want to jump into the nearest car, wind the windows down - and just drive ('Blue Morning', 'LA City').

Buy this album, you will not regret it. It's like discovering Wilco all over again.

I agree with the Wilco comparison but even more, if you like the Jayhawks but with a little more "dirt" then listen to this album. But don't stop there, definately check out American Lo-Fi, their more recent album - it only gets dirtier and better. Near perfect songs: She Shot me Down, and the duo of songs for thieves: Stolen Cars and Stolen Bikes. And if you need a fix of the sweet longing, then by all means, put the headphones on and hit the play on Carolinah so as to really feel like you're in the studio. Near great album.

Ox's first cd is a wonder of roots and lonelyness and canadiana and stealing things. 'There is no ride like a stolen bike' - the romantic urge to push life into the margins just for piss and vinigar of it - and then to know the regret - and then to do it again - cause living is worth it. That is what I get out of this cd ... and the voice and vintage tones the harmonies - high and lonesome but modern. Hints of REM at their country best - bits of Neil young and his most authentic aged whines of the mid 7o's. This band is a must. This album should be a classic - cause when I get old - it will still sound the same...

kevin