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Track Listings
| 1. Messenger |
| 2. How Good You Are |
| 3. Not So Sure |
| 4. The Sharpest Crown |
| 5. The Door Was Always Open |
| 6. The First Time I Saw You |
| 7. Unsophisticated Heart |
| 8. Disguised as Someone Else |
| 9. Bury Me Far (From My Uniform) |
| 10. Speak Plainly, Diana |
Editorial Reviews
After playing over 200 shows, including runs with Steve Earle, M. Ward and Josh Ritter, Pug took to the studio to record his sophomore release. While the Nation of Heat EP may have earned him the title of talent to watch, with Messenger, Pug explores new territory, sneaking pedal steel guitar into The Sharpest Crown and backing The Door is Always Open with a powerhouse rhythm section. He does not, however, let his solo charm escape the album. Songs like Bury Me Far (From My Uniform) and Unsophisticated Heart make it obvious that Pug is still master of the guy-and-the-guitar song.
Customer Reviews
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Most Helpful Customer Reviews
6 of 6 people found the following review helpful
By the_wordgirl
Format:Audio CD|Amazon Verified Purchase
Back in October, I saw Joe Pug live with the brilliant Meg Hutchinson at Denver's Swallow Hill venue. It was truly a treat, especially given that the small stage made for a living-room atmosphere. I was a newer fan of both of the artists and really had no idea how good they both are, especially live. If you ever have a chance, you really must do everything you can to see them.
Joe's received many comparisons to Bob Dylan, and yes, Pug's music mimicks that sound from time to time. His lyrics can sometimes veer off down that road. There is a bit of Springsteen in his anthems, too. You'll hear some country/folky twang every so often, too. I don't mind any of the meanderings so much because Pug is just so layered and strong enough to pull it off.
I think the key to his ability to do so lies in Pug's massive voice. He sings it like he means it. He strums it like it's his last breath. His lyrics are powerful and much more than hum-worthy. When he rocks, he gets up. When he laments, you're pulled. Something I immediately noticed during his live show was Pug's massive knack for theatricism. His music is appropriately, and thoughtfully, moody.
That said, if you have seen him live, a lot of the songs are old friends. I prefer the live versions to the recorded versions, and I suppose, that's a good thing. I could do without some of the twangy background singers. Pug doesn't need it. This album feels a little world-weary, perhaps because it was produced during a time of difficulty for our nation. It makes sense because, at his core, Pug seems to be a uniquely American singer. This is especially evident in his Bury Me Far From My Uniform: "merciful God, please remember my face." For those who love that wistful vibe, check out Disguised as Someone Else.... Read more ›
Joe's received many comparisons to Bob Dylan, and yes, Pug's music mimicks that sound from time to time. His lyrics can sometimes veer off down that road. There is a bit of Springsteen in his anthems, too. You'll hear some country/folky twang every so often, too. I don't mind any of the meanderings so much because Pug is just so layered and strong enough to pull it off.
I think the key to his ability to do so lies in Pug's massive voice. He sings it like he means it. He strums it like it's his last breath. His lyrics are powerful and much more than hum-worthy. When he rocks, he gets up. When he laments, you're pulled. Something I immediately noticed during his live show was Pug's massive knack for theatricism. His music is appropriately, and thoughtfully, moody.
That said, if you have seen him live, a lot of the songs are old friends. I prefer the live versions to the recorded versions, and I suppose, that's a good thing. I could do without some of the twangy background singers. Pug doesn't need it. This album feels a little world-weary, perhaps because it was produced during a time of difficulty for our nation. It makes sense because, at his core, Pug seems to be a uniquely American singer. This is especially evident in his Bury Me Far From My Uniform: "merciful God, please remember my face." For those who love that wistful vibe, check out Disguised as Someone Else.... Read more ›
2 of 3 people found the following review helpful
By K. Thornton
Format:Audio CD|Amazon Verified Purchase
A fantastic album. Joe Pug is an amazing song writer and his voice is hauntingly brilliant. It won't be long before he's the next big thing!
By D. Johnson
Format:MP3 Music|Amazon Verified Purchase
This is a great album from a great artist! Found out about him through the website for James Mcmurtry & Jason Isbell!
Format:Vinyl
Joe has written a few million dollar tunes - i.e. If I had a bunch of money and was able to dispense $1,000,000 to writers of great songs at my will, he would receive a few of these prizes. Diana, the Hymns, Fathers Drugs.... lots of great lyrics, and a fantastic voice. Definitely check out Joe Pug
By GVL
Format:Audio CD|Amazon Verified Purchase
If you like folk rock Joe is the man to add to your collection.
Much appreciated and good tunes.
Much appreciated and good tunes.
By C. Goggin
Format:Audio CD
This album is what the music industry has needed for a while, as it Joe Pug. He brings a sincerity in his voice and lyrics yet leaves the song open enough for your own interpretation. Each song instantly becomes part of that great American song-book. Bob Dylan comparisons are probably just, but it is my opinion that Joe brings more to the table in vocal performance, and in many cases lyric writing as well. Blasphemy many of you would say, but I believe that to be true.
Folk and country are mixed perfectly with a bit of rock music as well. The songs where he sings alone with his guitar and harp are great, and when the band joins in it just adds another dimension. Its not very often that I go from not knowing who someone is to them being my favorite artist, but Joe Pug did just that. Going to see him live in May 2011 too.
If you think music has lost its soul, and that a sincere song with honest and true feelings doesn't exist anymore, you should buy this album because there are 10 of those kinds of songs on here. Buy his other EP too for 7 more. I am proud owner of all of them. If you aren't convinced, go to his website, he offers a free EP and a free sampler cd there to give you a taste.
Folk and country are mixed perfectly with a bit of rock music as well. The songs where he sings alone with his guitar and harp are great, and when the band joins in it just adds another dimension. Its not very often that I go from not knowing who someone is to them being my favorite artist, but Joe Pug did just that. Going to see him live in May 2011 too.
If you think music has lost its soul, and that a sincere song with honest and true feelings doesn't exist anymore, you should buy this album because there are 10 of those kinds of songs on here. Buy his other EP too for 7 more. I am proud owner of all of them. If you aren't convinced, go to his website, he offers a free EP and a free sampler cd there to give you a taste.
1 of 2 people found the following review helpful
By Thomas Shope
Format:Audio CD|Amazon Verified Purchase
It should be a crime that Joe Pug has not received more critical acclaim for this release. I'm an audiophile, so I highly value production quality and this CD is flawless, but forget that, the music is a tour-de-force. Show me something else in this genre that better this. I've easily purchased 50 CDs this year, this is in my top 3 favorites and I never tire of it. Can I be anymore clear? Buy it!
1 of 2 people found the following review helpful
Format:MP3 Music|Amazon Verified Purchase
Another fantastic album from Joe Pug. I personally like the accoustic style of Nation of Heat a bit better, but Messenger is quickly growing on me. I love the rawness of his music and vocals - it's something you don't hear anymore. I'm going to see him this weekend, can't wait! Check out his website for free music that will knock your socks off!
