Beware by Bonnie "Prince" Billy (original) (raw)
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Record Label: Drag City
Release Date: Mar 17, 2009
Summary: Will Oldham's latest album under his Bonnie "Prince" Billy moniker features appearances by such guest as Wilco's Leroy Bach and Mekons' Jon Langford.
Record Label: Drag City
Genre(s): Indie, Rock
Score distribution:
Negative: 0 out of 32
The mood is undeniably American, and Bonnie (or Oldham) seems incomprehensibly at peace with his hallmark solitude. [Winter 2009, p.91]
The enigmatic nature of his music aside, Oldham invariably sounds like he's having fun making it, which makes Beware a warning only to those who place too high a value on simplistic clarity.
If the man’s curious oeuvre hasn’t already provided reason enough to pay attention, it’s doubtful Beware will convert anyone to the fold. But for those already attuned to Oldham’s songcraft, Beware is a rich and fulfilling work from a man who seems to have a paranormal grasp on human nature, with all the sensuality, God-fearing, tummy-rubbing and head-scratching that implies.
The unspecific lyrics are flatly whined in the manner of a depressed old codger falling asleep. Tempos stay sluggish and melodies meander, often parodying bygone rural music — funeral hymn here, waltz there.
Score distribution:
Mixed: 0 out of 3
Negative: 0 out of 3
At last heartfelt, direct lyrics that have understandable meaning and depth. i can't imagine he will ever make another record, perhaps At last heartfelt, direct lyrics that have understandable meaning and depth. i can't imagine he will ever make another record, perhaps an instrumental one.… Expand
Everything this man touches is aching and lovely.
Solid effort by Billy. This album is not as uneven as "Lie Down in the Light". It seems more grounded, more real and yes it's good.