Customer Reviews

When the Devil's Loose

5 star:		(10)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

The very first song I ever heard from A.A. Bondy was the title track to this album, "When the Devil's Loose." I love everything about that song, the music is atmospheric, the vocals are haunting and the lyrics are poetically abstract without being pretentious. That's a tough thing to pull off, but he makes it work beautifully. Just like his first album, there is not one bad song to found on this one. "Mightiest of Guns" and "I Can See the Pines are Dancing" are also songs that aren't to be missed. I saw him in concert with two of his bandmates shortly after this album came out and even though not many people there knew him (it was a concert where several different bands played) most of them were lined up after the show to buy his albums. There's just something about his music that people are naturally drawn to.

There's a distinct pain in his voice which makes his music sad, but beautiful... as he says, "your sadness it is quite lovely." So is your music A.A., so is your music.

KEY TRACKS: "When the Devil's Loose" and "I Can See the Pines are Dancing"

I saw Bondy recently perform live, and he had the entire venue hanging on his every word. He opened for Elvis Perkins In Dearland, and won over all those who came to see the headliner. A superb sophmore effort by a grossly underrated artist.

I've been listening to AA Bondy for the past 3+ years, and been going to shows. He's given a taste of some of the music on this new album - When the Devil's loose - both acoustically and with a band.

He's a man of a quiet aggression and simple sonic landscaps but it's his voice, lyrics and haunting music that carries this album so well. I am just in love with this album, as i am with his last, but it's more colorful with a band.

Like i said, It's really lovely.

So mesmerizing, I can't put it into words....here's the iTunes review: When the Devil's Loose is a gorgeous slow-burner of an album filled with spare and soulful songs backed by guitar, mournful piano, light bass, and slow and steady drumming. Some tunes are wrapped in soothing reverb, ("A Slow Parade," "To the Morning," "False River") and others benefit from moody and atmospheric production ("On the Moon," "The Coal Hits the Fire"), yet all of them convey a feeling of intimacy and subtle power. The tempos are slow yet never lethargic and the songs are lovingly crafted and emotionally charged. A mix of vulnerability and confidence, Bondy's understated, well-worn voice grabs hold tightly and proves an ideal match for his melancholy melodies. He sings slowly and clearly, allowing the vivid imagery and rich symbolism of his lyrics to make their full impact. When the Devil's Loose is the second solo release for Bondy, formerly of the band Verbena, and it's a mesmerizing work of stark beauty and quiet intensity. -iTunes Review-

A.A. Bondy's second solo release, When The Devil's Loose, sounds like it was recorded during Neil Young's Harvest/On The Beach/After The Gold Rush-era sessions - raw, primitive, gritty and real. The production is old-school, stripped down and is a perfect complement to Bondy's effortless and honest, down-to-earth songwriting. His trembling voice is beautifully unique, and song-for-song Bondy could be the most talented young songwriter I've heard in years. Bondy's first CD, American Hearts, is a Must Hear, Must Own, Must Love. Both are completely, highly recommended!!

GENRES: Contemporary Folk, Mellow Rock.

BUY IF YOU LIKE: David Gray, Neil Young, Wilco The Felice Brothers.

MUST HEAR TRACKS: "Mightiest of Guns," "The Slow Parade," "I Can See The Pines Are Dancing," "False River," "The Mercy Wheel."

Bondy's latest work is a revelation. Discovering his two solo records- both this most recent and American Hearts- is thrilling. If you know him from his Verbena days, he is just as powerful and charismatic but now seems to have grown into his skin. The result is amazing.

It's accomplished, graceful music, but underneath throbs a guttural real pain. The beauty of the songs are such at first you might not notice the raw emotion below-but make no mistake- it is the engine that churns it all forward as Bondy fights his way uphill towards salvation.

You'd be passing by something really special if you miss this man's music.

AA Bondy is an artist that I recently heard on my local 98.1 radio station. I think he has a real feel for the music he sings. I enjoy listening to his song "I can hear the pines dancing" over and over again. Two of his songs were recorded in New Paltz, New York. Give him a try. Definately worth the investment!!

Get over yourself Twardy. A lot of people, to include myself, appreciate other listeners reviews. For you to give this album one star because there were no lyrics included means you aren't a fan. Do us all a favor, call your reviews lyrics and leave them out as well.

A.A. Bondy's album "When The Devil's Loose" is a great example of A.A. Bondy's talent. A collection of great songs from a great guitar player with a great voice. Can't go wrong with this one.

This album is amazing. I could listen to it all day long. Lyrics and music a perfect match.