Evan Dando hasn't exactly been prolific in the 21st century. After threatening to become prolific in the 2000s -- he released a solo album, Baby I'm Bored, in 2003, then reunited the Lemonheads for their first new album in ten years in 2006 -- he decided to settle into a role he always longed to be: a college rock crooner, lazily strumming his favorite songs in the twilight hours. Throughout the Lemonheads' career, Dando always steered the group toward other people's songs, but 2009's Varshons was a full-fledged covers album, split between chestnuts from classic singer/songwriters, rustic versions of indie tunes, and the occasional spike of irony. Varshons 2 -- delivered a swift decade after its predecessor -- sands down those rough edges, swapping GG Allin for Florida Georgia Line, and sounding altogether warm and cozy.
The only time there's a hint of underground squall is a vigorous cover of the Eyes' "TAQN" (its speed countering the intent of the lyrics) and the gnarly electric guitar threaded through a version of Lucinda Williams' "Abandoned," which provides a nice, nervy contrast to Dando's honeyed voice. Ten years later, he's remarkably no worse for the wear; his voice doesn't sound weathered, it sounds broken in, wrapping itself easily around songs he clearly knows by heart. Dando remains a sensitive, nuanced interpreter and, as produced by Matthew Cullen, the Lemonheads sound amiable and charming: the best college bar band you could imagine stumbling upon on a Saturday afternoon. (S.T. Erlewine, allmusic.com)
I must say, Dando has once again shown with this album that he does not deviate from his path and does what he wants. And I love him for that. The songs are not just covers but interpretations. That he is also a great songwriter he has proven elsewhere. Evan Dando is a great musician. Enjoy.(Frank)
Grossartig Frank etwas was ich nicht kenne. Freue mich sehr!
ReplyDeleteDanke.