LISTEN UP

McGraw tries too hard with ‘best album ever’

Tim McGraw

Emotional Traffic Curb C

There’s a curious bit of promotional copy on a sticker on Tim McGraw’s latest album. “My best album ever,” exclaims none other than McGraw himself. Well, OK, then. It sort of sums up what’s going on here, namely that this country vet - who is sliding into larger movie roles - is trying way, way too hard.

The groaner of a title is another indication that McGraw wants to appear deep and be taken seriously, which seems pretty curious for a country superstar. While McGraw’s backing band is a serious professional outfit, it is making music that sounds tight, but leaves no real stamp.

The lyrics of these songs -“Right Back Atcha Babe,” “I Will Not Fall Down” and more - are vague, the antithesis of what good country lyrics do. The exception is “Touchdown Jesus,” an unabashed Christian anthem that will probably be tied to Tim Tebow footage before you read this. At least in this song you know what McGrawis singing about and why. That is not the case with the rest of the “best album ever.”

Hot track: “Touchdown Jesus.” - WERNER TRIESCHMANN

Kronos Quartet

The Music of Vladimir Martynov Nonesuch A

The Russian composer Vladimir Martynov has much in common with the great Arvo Part. Both grew up in the Soviet Union and, as composers, have moved into simpler structures that are intimate and often deeply spiritual. But Martynov is not totally a minimalist. His compositions are richly melodic, accessible and direct; Martynov’s work is capable of undeniable sweetness and beauty.

Kronos Quartet, in its first album since 2009, embraces three of the composer’s works to great impact. Joined on “Schubert-Quintet (Unfinished)” by original Kronos cellist Joan Jeanrenaud, the group digs deeply into this hauntingly beautiful work which explores several of Schubert’s themes. It was written for Kronos by the composer. Martynov also arranged his lovingly played work “The Beatitudes” for the group. “Der Abschied” is unsettling, dramatic and moving; it was written by Martynov in memory of his father.

This is an album brimming with warmth and emotion, of flesh and spirit, that is romantic and beautifully played.

Hot track: “Schubert-Quintet (Unfinished)” is a masterwork.

  • ELLIS WIDNER

Craig Finn

Clear Heart Full Eyes Vagrant C+

The debut solo album by Craig Finn as heard by characters from his songs for The Hold Steady:

Holly and Gideon meet Charlemagne in Ybor City after barely getting out of Denver alive. After Saturday Mass at St. Teresa’s, Holly listens to this album by that dude who sings for The Hold Steady.

It’s the guy’s solo album, so Holly’s curious and it’s pretty good but not blow-your-mind great. Holly knows the people in the songs. Or people like them. They’re like her and her friends - messed up, but maybe looking for a savior.

She likes the one song about the actor guy and his girl, but it’s so sad. A lot of the songs have a country feel with pedal steel guitar and a fiddle here and there.

Gideon wishes the album rocked a bit more, but admits the guy has a way with a lyric. “It’s hard to suck with Jesus in your band” made Gideon laugh.

The song about the man who always lies to women hits a bit too close to home for Charlemagne.

Hot Tracks: “Jackson” is Holly’s favorite. Gideon likes “When No One’s Watching.” Charlemagne doesn’t have a favorite.

  • SEAN CLANCY

The Soul Rebels

Unlock Your Mind Rounder C

Just about every city has an off-the-beaten-path lounge that’s a great place to hang out and hear good bands that don’t have the “it” factor to launch them to stardom. In their hometown of New Orleans, one such band could be The Soul Rebels.

Musically, they’re great. They’ve got the sound of a traditional New Orleans brass band, but heavier on the trombone and tuba. However, their voices are unremarkable. Most of the lyrics are bland and repetitive, though the few songs with rap riffs make the album feel current. Otherwise, it’s good that the album is mostly instrumental.

The eight-man ensemble puts its mark on Eurythmics’ “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” and Stevie Wonder’s “Living for the City.” Unlock Your Mind would be great background music for a New Orleans-theme dinner, so put on a pot of gumbo and invite some friends over. But add extra spice, because there’s not much in the music.

Hot track: “Sweet Dreams Are Made of This.” - L. LAMOR WILLIAMS

Brigitte DeMeyer Rose of Jericho BDM B+

“Gonna squeeze the world of all its juice,” sings singer songwriter Brigitte DeMeyer on this, her fifth album. For the most part, she makes you believe it. This indie album spurns smooth pop sounds for a roots-based stew of blues, country, R&B and gospel.

DeMeyer has a scratchy voice (sometimes sounding like Sheryl Crow) that gives these songs a lived-in feel. The urgency of “The Fix I’m In,” detailing the dilemma of motherhood, jumps right off the record. The album is an insular thing and could use some editing and perhaps a push to attempt a pop hit. Still, there’s plenty here that’s worthwhile.

Hot track: “The Fix I’m In.” - WERNER TRIESCHMANN

Style, Pages 27 on 01/31/2012

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