"Levi Stubbs Tears" started playing in my head as soon as I read the title, and even that head-version gave me chills. I guess that's the sign of a great song.
Fantastic piece! I didn’t become a fan of Bragg’s until “Mermaid Ave Vol. 1” with Wilco, and the album he recorded with Joe Henry. I know the “Taxman” album well, but haven’t even heard the fourth album. Excited to check it out based on your rave.
If you did Mermaid, then 'Worker's Playtime' ought to be right up your alley. I am in the minority on this issue with Bragg diehards. They tend to veer to the very early solo stuff. I love that and it's hugely important, but as a record, I think the fourth one stands up as the best collection of songs, production and themes. That said, they're all superb.
And I love that album he did with Joe Henry. Such a great piece of music built on history, friendship and sonic experimentation. Great stuff.
Loving it minus the two overtly political songs. I knew and loved the first two tracks already, but found at least five other great ones on there. Love the piano throughout the album.....
"Levi Stubbs Tears" started playing in my head as soon as I read the title, and even that head-version gave me chills. I guess that's the sign of a great song.
That opening riff . . . swoon
A great read. Thank you.
Thanks so much, Mike. It's great to have you here.
Fantastic piece! I didn’t become a fan of Bragg’s until “Mermaid Ave Vol. 1” with Wilco, and the album he recorded with Joe Henry. I know the “Taxman” album well, but haven’t even heard the fourth album. Excited to check it out based on your rave.
If you did Mermaid, then 'Worker's Playtime' ought to be right up your alley. I am in the minority on this issue with Bragg diehards. They tend to veer to the very early solo stuff. I love that and it's hugely important, but as a record, I think the fourth one stands up as the best collection of songs, production and themes. That said, they're all superb.
And I love that album he did with Joe Henry. Such a great piece of music built on history, friendship and sonic experimentation. Great stuff.
Loving it minus the two overtly political songs. I knew and loved the first two tracks already, but found at least five other great ones on there. Love the piano throughout the album.....
Nice! 'Tender Comrade' is a bit of a sore thumb on the album. Not a bad song, or even idea, but it doesn't really fit here.
The piano really does a lot for the album.
Hell yeah man! Billy Bragg is amazing. It's his damn fault that I'm doing solo shows now. Everybody gets to blame him (and Bob Mould).