|
CLASSIC
ROCK
Despite the swathes of critical plaudits that have followed both Jay Farrar and his Uncle Tupelo sparring partner Jeff Tweedy since their own recriminations sent them packing in opposite directions, niether probably has the bank balance to suggest that the public are of a similar opinion to the critics. However, while the latter seems to have reached some ceative impasse with Wilco stalling after leaving a major label, Farrar, who, post Son Volt, has also taken the independent route, has been positively inspired. Here we not only have Farrar's third solo album, but also a score he's written for the art-house movie The Slaughter Rule. Of the former, we get a delightfully barren ride through dustbowl Americana. Hauntingly evocative, yet underpinned by the slightest hint of punkish menace in Farrar's own voice, it may be the most stripped-down release from Farrar yet, but probably the best. The soundtrack album follows a similar theme, but it bolstered by the appearance of new material from fellow scenesters Ryan Adams, Vic Chesnutt, and a previously unreleased Gram Parson's cover from Farrar's own, sadly defunct, Uncle Tupleo. Stirring stuff. - Jerry Ewing |
