Customer Reviews

Short Man's Room

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

 

 

This is just hands down, one of the greatest albums that I have ever heard. My first copy was scratched on "Diving Bell" which is the song that held me warmer than a good woman on so very many cold nights. So I got a second. The second was in my stereo when it was stolen out of my car. I miss the cd more. This will be my third, and so long as I have a cd collection, it will contain a copy of "Short Man's Room."

This guy can really write. I first heard of him when I read his beautifully-crafted liner notes on The Jayhawks' "Hollywood Town Hall" album and I was floored by his simple, brilliant way with words. I was even more stunned when I heard that voice of his. It couldn't fit his lyrics and music more perfectly. On this wonderful album, he manages to create heartbreakingly beautiful glimpses into people's lives. "Reckless Child", in particular, absolutely wipes me out with lyrics like, "Won't you come lay with me?/Let your easy laugh undo/What has risen up to leave the hole that I have fallen through". Pure poetry. And if you ever get a chance to hear his song, "Safe with Me" on the "Feeling Minnesota" soundtrack, you'll never forget it.

I bought this Album after listening to "Trampoline" and although initially being somewhat dissapointed it has grown on me and is a Brilliant record
It is alternative Country at it's best and stands up well to the test of time just don't buy it on the strenght of Scar, Trampoline and Fuse his more recent Albums as this is quite different

This recording is like no other in my collection. Joe Henry is a gifted story teller and artist. The mood of this album is warm and it is ultimately hopeful. Joe Henry's characters are very American, seeming to be somehow flawed, but able to redeem themselves because of their capacity to love. The album is backed by the Jayhawks and other talented musicans (Mike Russell, Dave Boquist, and Dan Murphy), who bring much to the table. The title track is a waltz, while the other songs vary in style from folk music to rock. I cannot say enough good things about this album.

The understated voice of Henry lead to him being underrated. He may be just too shy to become a superstar, although he has everything Leonard Cohen has, great songs, a great musical sensibilty, great lyrics, and a very comunicative voice. This cd is one of his best cd's.

Try also "Shuffletown" (and avoid "FUSE").

Let it be known, I'm crazy about Joe Henry. I can't say enough good things about the way he writes and sings. I can't think of anyone who gets under your skin the way he does and stays there, burning slowly. So, what is it about this album that doesn't affect me the same way that most of his work does? The writing is terrific and his singing doesn't fail. I think it's the music. The band behind him, The Jayhawks, very accomplished and critically acclaimed musicians bring their fiddle/mandolin bluegrass overtones to a singer/songwriter who is not an artist in this medium and it has left me wanting to hear more of what Joe Henry has evolved into since working with T-bone Burnett on Shuffletown and also his later stuff, Trampoline and Fuse. I know there will be those that disagree and think I'm missing something 'essential' in this cd, but, this one's not near the top of my list.