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Hear Music: Waking
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Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
MiXed Results at 2006-05-22
Like most of the HEAR Music collections this is a mixed bag. But, with Rufus Wainwright, Leonard Cohen, David Byrne and Ryan Adams, this collection is better than most.
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Tales From the Edge - Volumes Nine & Ten - Deep Ellum: History Bites-eight Arms to Hold You
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The Boxing Mirror
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Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
Worth the wait at 2006-05-14
Its been 6 years since A Man Under The Influence as Alejandro battled (and still does I am sure) Hepatitis C. The production on this album is different than his others, there is less space and Alejandros voice is up front. I think it works to the musics benefit as Alejandros great songs sound terrific. Worth picking up for sure.
Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
Why Dont I Love This CD? at 2006-07-06
There is something about this CD that keeps me from raving about it. On the surface it is great. I listened to it regularly for about a week, and it still gets heavy rotation in my player. All the parts are in place...the lyrics, the passion, the emotion, the chamber music-like quality of the music. So whats the problem? The problem is the production is too distant from the emotional power of the lyrics. It is too polite, too clinical, too gothic. Kudos to AE for overcoming the heavy hand of John Cale at the controls, because this is a very, very good release.
Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
Great at 2006-06-10
Escovedo has been a musician and songwriter who has been very prolific. I thought he died a few years ago, but I guess not. He has hooked up with John Cale on this record. Most of his music is mellow rock with county and folk references. Escovedo has written most of the songs here, with a little help. The band is very large. Even Cale helps out on a few tunes. Notes On Air is a brilliant song. Its good to see this class act back in business.
Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
the sound of an artist expanding his range at 2006-05-22
Whether youll enjoy this album really depends on how much of Als previous work youre familiar with. I say this because if youre expecting Man Under The Influence Pt.II you will be disappointed. Its clear that Escovedo is no longer content making rote alt-country records, and has decided to expand his sound. This will inevitably lead to above-average reviews from newcomers who werent on board for any of the past half-dozen albums, but might leave established fans a bit disconcerted. Truth is, first time i heard this album in its entirety i was severely nonplussed. Personally, i dont look to Al for avant-garde production theatrics, or overblown triple-tracked string sections. I thought the work he did up until the illness was the best hed ever done, and i have to give him full credit for coming back and making a statement, im just not 100% sure im on board for it. Hes reaching, and i completely understand why, but the pursnickety sonic experimentations often leave me yearning for a simple song like Rhapsody again. Though to be fair, a lot of these songs sounded better live during his last tour with the orchestra. Maybe Cale is who i should blame here.So thats my take: older fans approach with caution, but keep an open mind. You might agree with the current critics who seem to think this is some sort of watershed moment for the man. It certainly is a change.
Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
Alejandro, brilliant as always...... at 2006-05-18
As usual and as Ive come to expect, Alejandros music comes from his heart and soul and this cd gorgeously reflects this in every note. His recent boxing with life has been mirrored here in his music with beautiful juxtapositions. Darkly stirring, this cd is laced throughout with all of his influences, punk, rock, and classical (orchestral and strings) with his voice coming over each song clear and strong. Using John Cale (The Velvet Underground) to produce this was the perfect pairing, each musician who plays here gives a stellar performance and the monster bass work of Mark Andes (Spirit, Firefall, Jo Jo Gunne, Heart, etc.)should be noted. Definitely discover Alejandro and this is a great place to start......
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Room of Songs
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Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
Welcome Back, Alejandro! at 2006-03-01
These discs showcase a marvelous performance in what sounds like an intimate setting. I wish I could have been there. The only reason Im giving it only four stars, is that I, personally prefer Alejandros electric music and I heard hes toured with a kick-ass rock band. Regardless, I hope he keeps cranking them out.
Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
Same Church, Different Pew at 2006-02-24
While I absolutely enjoy the music of Alejandro Escovedo, this CD is much the same as his previous releases, only with a different musician line up. Dont get me wrong, it is a great representation of him in concert along with his string quintet. I saw him in Milwaukee with this current quintet and it was a night that I wont soon forget due to his show. Ill simply never tire of his music. If you have been following this amazing artist for a while, you would be set if you owned Gravity. However, if you are new to this mans music, filled with raw emotions bleeding in the lyrics, then this CD is a definite must. I am looking forward to his new material that I have heard is coming out sometime soon through Back Porch Records. Good to have a healthy Alejandro back!
Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
rock band, orchestra, now try the string quartet at 2006-02-22
Those that now Als music already know hes not just another Tex-Mex/folk/alt-country singer of dusty, smoky tales. His resume reaches deep into the past (his first band, The Nuns, opened for the Sex Pistols last show) and spans such name-dropped outfits as the True Believers and Buick MacKane. His recent output, whether with the traditional rock band or his orchestra is some of his best, and despite serious illness he shows no signs of slowing down.This release is a 2-CD job of Escovedo backed by his string quartet (more than the rock band, not quite as big as his touring orchestra) which is composed of Susan Voelz on violin, and Brian Standefer and Matt Fish on cello, along with guitarist David Pulkingham. As if the songs in their original format arent enough to get yer motor runnin, the lush string arrangements here add color and depth to prove that Escovedos talent runs deep.As for value, thats where im not so sure. These are all well-traveled songs from the Escovedo catalog which fans have likely all heard before, only the arrangements make them different. And though there are 2 CDs, youre only getting 7 songs per disc, for a total of 14. So im sure the average fan would approve, but i cant say id start here if youve never heard the original source material. Though perhaps if youre the NPR-listening, latte-drinking, Volvo-driving type you might prefer this, as it does sand off some of the rougher edges.
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Por Vida: A Tribute To The Songs Of Alejandro Escovedo
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Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
13 years at 2004-11-15
Alejandro has been writing darn good music for a long time now. Often overlooked in the mass market popularity contest of the music business, but respected by his peers. Its a great intro to some of his music, and I recommend it as such. It may be only me, but Im a little tired of Los Lonely Boys, a better story than band, and Castenets is over played. And why did someone not cover 13 Years, one of Als very best songs ever?
Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
These artists all love Alejandro, why wouldnt you? at 2006-03-10
Maybe Id been living under a rock or something... but Id never heard of Alejandro Escovedo until this tribute came out. My interest was piqued by the All-Star roster of artists that performed. The first song I heard was Paradise by Steve Earle and Reckless Kelly. Now THAT just blew me away, so I delved farther and found a lot of great songs on this album. This all lead to buying each and evey album that Alejandro has done, including his stuff w/ Buick MacKane and True Believers. I felt as though I missed something very important up until that point. This isnt a bad place to start for those unexposed to the brilliance of the man. He can rock, he can swoon. Make you giggle, make you cry. Check this album out, then check out Alejandros albums. You wont regret it! I swear!
Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
Por Vida Rises Above the Tribute Genre at 2005-06-20
Im skeptical of tribute albums and there are a dozen good reasons why nearly all tribute albums fail. The general rule of thumb and the best argument against tribute albums is that the original artist has already recorded the definitive version of the song. Tribute albums inevitably invite comparisons to the original versions and more often than not, come up short. I steered clear of Por Vida: A Tribute to the Songs of Alejandro Escovedo on the grounds of caveat emptor; let buyer beware of the uneven quality of most tribute albums. It was unlikely that even the most gifted interpreter would offer any fresh insights into Escovedos soulful renditions of his own music. My curiosity finally got the best of me and I finally purchased Por Vida a month ago.Alejandro Escovedo has walked a rough path as a musician since he appeared on the music scene in the Seventies. Hes so uniquely talented its diffcult to pidgeon hole and market him as an musician. Success has been within Escovedos reach but just beyond his grasp for too many years. Escovedos songwriting talent and body of work is on par with Bob Dylan, Paul Simon, Leonard Cohen or any other great contempory songwriters. You seldom hear Escovedos name mentioned in the same conversation about relative merits of great comtemporary songwriters, like his noteworthy peers. Por Vida, as it turns out, is welcome exception to the rule of law. It is a testament to the universal nature of Escovedos song writing and his music flatters nearly every artist on this sprawling two disc album. Its a dizzying array of styles that showcases 32 wildly varied music acts with over hundred musicians in the various bands. Its about as diverse a group of musicians as youll ever hear including; John Cale, Lucinda Williams, Sheila E, Lenny Kaye, Calexico, Charley Musselwhite, Ian Hunter and the Mekons Jon Langford and Sally Timms. Por Vida may be only tribute genre album that delivers new rewards upon repeated playing. This tribute album is one that wont exiled to the shelf to collect dust after one or two spins. It wouldnt do justice to select two or three stellar cuts on the album, because each artist shines in the glow of Escovedos beautiful music. Alejandro Escovedo is a songwriter for every season and every generation. The fact that hes been stricken with often lethal Hepatitis C is yet another burden for Escovedo to carry. Escovedo, like most musicians, cannot afford the comprehensive insurance coverage to treat this deadly disease. All proceeds from this tribute album go the cost of his spiralling health care costs. Regardless of the musical merits of the album itself, its about the best reason I can think of to purchase this album.
Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
Loving Tribute to a Songwriting Great at 2004-12-25
You may wonder, who is this guy and why does he deserve a 2-CD tribute? But by the time you get halfway through the first disc, youll wonder no more: Alejandro Escovedo is a flat-out brilliant songwriter. His music has moved through genres, without losing his sensibility for both roots-rock and his Mexican heritage. Suffice to say that if you like Los Lobos (even though they dont appear), youll really enjoy this CD. In the same tradition as Sweet Relief (the tribute to Victoria Williams, who was stricken with MS about ten years ago), and other albums after it, this project was intended to assist Escovedo, who has hepatitis C and no health insurance. And what assistance he got: a first-rate lineup of artists, from Lucinda Williams, Son Volt and the Jayhawks to Charlie Musselwhite, Ian Hunter and John Cale. Just about everything here works very well, kicking off with Lucinda Williams great version of Pyramid of Tears, moving through hot property Los Lonely Boys cover of Castanets, and many other highlights by Cowboy Junkies, Chris Stamey, and Escovedo himself. Do yourself a favor and pick this one up (its a bargain for a 2-CD set with nary a bad track on it). Then, if you havent already, acquaint yourself with the original albums from this influential and gifted Mexican-American artist.
Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
One of the best collections of covers youll ever find at 2005-01-20
If you cant find something on this that you think is first-rate, you dont like music. There are one or two weak cuts, but the best songs here are simply amazing. The Section Quartets take on Crooked Frame was a revelation. Other highlights include the John Dee Graham cover of Helpless, Peter Cases The End, and the Dragons version of Gravity. Ive already bought four CDs on the basis of what Ive heard on this one, and I will be buying more.
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With These Hands
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Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
Alejandro Escovedo - With These Hands (with bonus) at 2004-08-10
Alejandro Escovedo is a master at writing what might best be called the epic ballad. Conventionally we are used to `epic songs being long affairs, with majestic lyrics talking of grand ideas complemented by overstated guitar solos and a dense sound. What is this all in the name of? Power. But as Escovedo shows in his recently re-released album With These Hands, there are more interesting ways to make powerful music.A classic case in point is the albums emotional centre-piece, Pissed Off 2am. Normal song classification would have this number down as a ballad. As with most ballads, it has subject matter which is sad, it is slow-paced, it has sweet but not cloying harmonies, and it is full of the language of loss, drink, and lack of meaning. It touches the listener, and creates a visual image - the two protagonists are there, right in front of you, you feel like you know everything there is to know about their story, you share the singers despair...ultimately you begin to identify with him, however silly and inappropriate this is. But this song has something else - it has a subtle but clearly present force, which drives the song in a way which sets it apart from most ballads. It is difficult to pin down exactly how Escovedo achieves this. As with all good epics, there is a piano - but it isnt ostentatious plonking in the best Meat Loaf style, it is more a series of delicate whispers, just in the right place, adding to the melody rather than disguising the lack of one. The lyrics also play their part in creating such a unique song - they are not the simple platitudes of loss, but something far more complex. Escovedo doesnt just have to fight the reasons given to him for the changes in his life - there are also barricades, real obstacles, which he tries to knock down merely by denying their meaning. But the barricades appear again and again in the song, and the story remains unfinished, the suffering unresolved.That, in fact, is the theme of the album - a yearning for times past, a realisation that times have changed in irreversible ways, and, at times, an uncertain hope that things will be happy in new ways. The initial rumblings and catchy bass riff of the opening song, Put You Down, give way to a description of a love that the singer just cannot relinquish, and then we are away - eleven songs of what might be called `Americana music if only because that term means so little and encompasses so much. Acoustic folk, rustic country, Latino, rock and roll...actually that last term is sufficient on its own. The Bands film The Last Waltz contains a revealing interview with Levon Helm, in which he describes how lots of different musical genres come together in Tennessee, as it is geographically the heart of the United States. The result? Rock and roll. Escovedos album is a classic exposition of this fusion. The song which sounds most like a rock and roll song is probably Guilty. Unlike most of the song on the album, it is not in the first or second person - it tells a story of someone else, a man who lost his way, wrapped up in shame. But this is not just a token loud, pull-out-all-the-stops, rocker. It has a superb hook - that moment in the chorus where the lyrics are perfectly matched by the melody, and where the band comes together and feels the movement, the change, in the song.Towards the end of the album, there is another epic ballad, and this time the power of the song is more easily identifiable. The theme of loss and renewal is poetically exposed at the outset: Take this old and very tired skin / wrap up a newborn baby and keep her warm again. Judged on paper, the words have the potential to sound trite, but with the warmth and sincerity of the vocals, the song sounds natural and almost unassuming. The ability of music itself to rejuvenate is also recognised: Take this old and worn out violin and hold it in your arms / and make it sing.By the time we reach the albums title track, the record is almost complete - this is a song Escovedo wrote for his father, and the life of this brilliant but only moderately successful songwriter is put in context by the line They say deaths the only peace the poor understand. The song builds in intensity as it re-acquaints us with the restless growls of the opening number, and we see the light, it moves faster, howling like the wind blows...and the singer tells us that the water of the river will heal our wounds - because once again, although the song is not about us, we feel what he is saying. Finally, the album ends and we are reminded that it contains no clear message, just some themes which point the songs in particular directions - because over some more fantastically shimmering piano work, Tugboat ends by reminding us that Gone gone those days are gone / gone gone gone. With Escovedo now seriously ill with hepatitis C, these thoughts move beyond being simply poignant and assume the weight of real tragedy.This being a re-release, it comes with a variety of bonus tracks and live performances of the albums songs and others, and they too are well worth hearing - the variety of Escovedos performances is just as evident live as it is in the studio. With These Hands is not an album to be enjoyed just by fans of alt-country, Americana, or any other label. It is an album to be enjoyed by those who like good quality songs and near-perfect performance. It is a set of songs that music fans will relish.
Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
Holy Alejandro! This disc ROCKS! at 2004-02-26
I already knew Alejandro could write weepers and rockers. In fact, I already owned the previous version of With These Hands, which Ive nearly worn out. Intrigued by the extra tracks on this one (mostly live), I jumped on the remaster bandwagon. This is one FANTASTIC release, and the live tracks, extremely well-recorded, prove Als live muscle once again. Easily the best of the Alejandro remasters, this is a must for any Alejandro junkie, and a great place to start for any interested takers. Artistry and beauty set to rock and roll. IF YOU EVER GET THE CHANCE, GO SEE AL LIVE!
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Thirteen Years (Bonus CD)
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Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
A sad, quirky look at love, lost and found. at 1999-06-04
Alejandro wrote this album mostly as a dedication to his late ex-wife. The words and music convey not only the problems she and they may have had but also the love he felt for her.This was the first Escavedo album I bought and that was at a concert of his. It was the first show I had ever seen where I actually got chills, the music was that beautiful. A cello, violin and traditional rock instruments blended for an incredible evening. From that point I was a confirmed Alejandro fan. This album just made me a lifetime fan. Get it today, along with all his albums, you will not be dissapointed.
Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
Harrowing. Roots rock to Soutwestern chamber music at 2006-03-22
Vol 1. Concept album on his reaction to the suicide of his lover and the mother of his children. Harrowing if you pay attention. Unlike anything I have ever heard-like, maybe, chamber music by Gram Parsons. But Escovedos voice is always more interesting. From powerful, roots-based rock and roll to strings-based whatever, from his own Chamber Southwest group. Standouts: tr 4-Way it goes (Country-rock anthem that grows from a quiet personal statement to something resonant and bigger. Lyric: God bless the child that dont have a mother to put her to sleep.). tr 5-Losing your touch (slamming, anthemic rocker that might have come from the Midwest (Bob Seger) or the Stones). tr 10-Tell me while (seemingly from country weeper by Gram Parsons into Escoveda Chamber Southwest). tr 13-Babys got new plans (anthem of personal loss with the resonance of a last Indian tribe in New Mexico). tr 14-The end (Lyric: Ive got some questions that need answering.... This is really the end.) [52:25]Vol. 2. Tender, acoustic, elegiac tracks, including 4 instrumental takes on Vol. 1 tracks; 3 live versions of tracks not on Disc 1, and a rocking take on Gravity. Stand-outs: tr 8-Helpless (slow funky strut that makes me think about Peggy Lee or the Blasters). tr 9-Mountain of mind (straight-ahead country rocker). [37:45]
Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
Beautiful at 2002-12-05
Using a beautiful strings section, this is a record that never falls in heavy bad taste. As a whole it sounds like an hymn - well, it is. Its an admirable effort in a lyrical way, a haunting and pleasant listen. Some rocking moments are welcome, and excellent (Losing Your Touch, Mountain Of Mud).Bonus CD: four instrumental mixes, and four live songs (a personal version of Lou Reeds Pale Blue Eyes among them).Beautiful cover art, excellent sound, this is a satisfying re-issue.
Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
The most seductive head banger I ever saw - wow! at 1999-06-16
The first time a buddy and I went to see Alejandro Escovedos Orchestra at OFF BROADWAY in an old south St. Louis neighborhood, we were two of 20 people in the place, counting the band. It was early 1994, not long after BALLAD OF THE SUN AND MOON was released. Alejandros band consisted of a lead guitar, bass, drums, violin, two cellos, with himself on rhythm guitar and vocals. Wow! He has such a knack for pulling you into his life very smoothly, right before delivering his knock out punch. What songs, what lyrics, what passion, what virtuoso playing, and what instrument selection. During his live shows Alejandro will lead into songs with a little story, like when Bela Bartok and Iggy Pop got involved, and finish the story in song. When last years three piece band (AE, viloin, cello) played Iggys DO THE DOG, the entire place was quivering. We have continued to watch Alejandro grow, and suddenly so have many others. All of AEs music is strong, but my first experience with BALLAD OF THE SUN AND THE MOON is still my favorite.
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By the Hand of the Father
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Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
WOW! at 2005-07-02
I won tickets to this theater performance in Arcata, CA from a local radio station KHUM, and it just happened that my sister was coming up to visit that day. We had no idea what kind of a show wed be seeing. Wow!I had tears in my eyes by the end. Beautiful, passionate, exciting, and profound. Im buying CDs for both my sister and me.I dont ever want to forget this music.
Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
Whats up, Papa? at 2003-04-29
This is a beautiful collection reflecting the journey of various fathers who have passed through the experiences of the immigrant in this century. Highlighting a wide array of musical styles, the music reflects the sentiments of the stories being told. From the perspective of budding romance amidst war to the remonstrations from children to their father in later life, the disc shows the power of story to affect us. The telling of these family secrets allows a glimpse into the joys, difficulties and regrets of the members of the family. Its not always easy to experience, but the music is so rich that it is worth the trip. Plus, we may all learn from the mistakes of the father, learn to forgive him, and save ourselves from making the same mistakes. I, as a father and as a son, appreciate this. Taken as a whole, it is a love story that sounds great, too. Very inspiring. Felicidades, Alejandro y a todo y saludos a las familias!!!!!!!! I cant wait until you artists take this forum to other literature and music. There are plenty of stories out there!!
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Gravity (Bonus CD)
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Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
Splendid re-issue!! at 2002-12-05
I dont know for the States, but Alejandro Escovedo is unknown in Europe (at least in France), except by special music lovers of course. I discovered him last year only myself, with his beautiful album A Man Under The Influence. Im so lucky to have found out this Gravity re-issue, along with the Thirteen Years one, both are nothing but splendid! Satisfying at any level: the quality of the sound, the beauty of the booklet, of the cover art, and especially of the music! Gravity is a masterpiece. As lyrical as the best of Pink Floyd (from Dark Side and The Wall), as beautiful and pure as the best of the Velvet Underground or Lou Reed (think of the violins of Street Hassle), with sometimes rocks as good as the Rolling Stones ones. What could I say more?? The voice of Alejandro is raw and moving. His music is simple and inspired. His subjects are experienced from life. We fell in love and its never funny he sings in Last To Know.Bonus CD: eight live songs from the same album, recorded in Santa Monica in 1993, plus a cover of Ian Hunters I Wish I Was Your Mother. The customer is happy! :o)
Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
fantastic...... at 2000-09-26
This earlier solo project is nothing short of incredible. Heartfelt lyrics with great acoustic instrumentation. Gravitywas follwed by Thirteen Years (...), an absolutemasterpiece - talk about singing from the soul.
Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
His voice is the sound of five hearts breaking... at 2000-02-21
This album is incredible! The quote above is from one of his songs but can just as well pertain to him. Buy this record and enjoy and hopefully his live show will be coming to a town near you!
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A Man Under the Influence
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Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
Estas canciones son para ti... at 2004-03-17
These songs are for you... Alejandro Escovedo closes out his dedication to his sister Alice, in A Man Under the Influence, and truth be told, these songs feel as if they are written for and sung to each and everyone of us individually.Alejandro Escovedo is one songwriter and musician that I was fortunate to run into not too long ago, one who magically manages to seamlessly blend influences from folk, rock and roll, punk, country and texmex music. After learning about him, this album, with all its dia de los muertos motif instantly captured my attention: gladly I later found out most of his fans consider it to be his best production to date. To me the 11-song was like a book consisting of two intertwined chapters, somewhat (and two very solid chapters, for the matter). From the opening chord of Wave, into the contagious Rosalie, the first chapter is mostly straight-up rock n roll with songs that equally borrow from The Beatles in their early years or Los Lobos, while still retaining a uniqueness that makes them refreshing, making you want to listen to them over and over again.The other chapter of the album shows a far more personal side of Escovedo, with Across The River, Velvet Guitar (a very Tom Petty-like tune), the intimate Dont Need You and the closing About This Love making you wonder: what on earth are we listening to these days, when a guy like Alejandro Escovedo is far from being well known? (to the point on depending on his friends and fans help to get back on his feet after collapsing in April 2003 -you can also help him by going to http://www.alejandrofund.com/)
Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
Alejandro has ME under the influence! at 2005-10-23
One of the finest song writers going on anywhere. He writes from his heart about personal things that we can all relate to. I love this guy. I have for years. Since Rank and File on down the line. His songs breaks and mends hearts. Alejandro, i will quit my day job and be your roadie!
Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
Unique and Wonderful at 2005-09-27
Alejandro Escovedo is a Mexican-American guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter and his music is incredibly difficult to categorize. At times he ranges across country and rock landscapes performing ballads, love songs, haunting melodic studies, and scorching rock and roll. There are moments when his songs are reminiscent of the Eagles in the way they are arranged and in the lyrical structures, yet his is a solo voice that is compelling without the support of harmony. I bought the CD on the strength of songs like Velvet Guitar and Castanets which were getting a lot of radio airplay in Austin. Over time, I have come to love the rest of this album even more than those two tracks. Alejandro is a fine singer and a very good guitarist, but the strength of this album is his songwriting and arranging. This is one of those recordings that true music fans will appreciate more after a dozen or so playings than they do at first. The music is complex and multi-layered, despite the simplicity of the single voice and guitar that are featured on most tracks.
Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
Fantastic CD at 2003-08-14
This CD was a CD of the month at my local Public Radio station (KUNI), and Alejandro was featured on The World Cafe. Because I had heard a few of the songs on the CD...I was both reluctant and hopeful when I bought the CD. I should not have been reluctant. The CD was enough for me to travel to Minneapolis to see Alejandro in concert. A Man Under the Influence is both masterful and approachable. Masterful enough for my father to enjoy it and approachable enough that my stepson requested that I burn Castanets onto a CD for him.
Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
great songwriter at 2002-02-11
This guy is a superb songwriter. His storytelling ranks up there with the best of the texas crew. when are he and W. Salas-Humara from The Silos going to team up again to create the roots-rock dream team? This is a great record.
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Bourbonitis Blues
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Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
it must be fun being alejandro escovedo... at 2000-11-25
...you get to record the mott the hoople song you loved when you were 17 and actually make money doing it. ok, maybe not a lot of money, but nevertheless...this is a collection of covers and originals, with the now trademark buzzsaw electric guitar meets the cello ensemble. the live in the studio sound means that the this version of guilty is pretty similar to the one on the live album. the john cale and lou reed covers work pretty well. escovedos voice probably isnt up to the jimmie rodgers cover (california blues).the standout cut, cover of the year, is the extraordinary cover of sex beat by the gun club. i dont know if it was inspired by jeffrey lee pierces death or what, but here it is performed as a dirge: the tempo is slowed way down, and the buzzsaw guitar is replaced by a spare slide, a harmonica, and some minimalist backing vocals, and some fine drumming. it is absolutely arresting. i must of listened to it six straight times the first time a played the cd.
Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
Another fine release.... at 1999-05-02
...from Alejandro Escovedo. This time out he continues down his baroque singer-songwriter-meets- the-Rolling Stones path hes been cultivating most of this decade. Although this is no substitute for his live shows (do see him if you can!), its a decent album showcasing his songwriting ability, as well as his excellent selection of cover tunes. Oh, yeah....long live Buick McKane!!!!!!!!!
Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
Superb variety of a music from a legendary performer. . . at 1999-04-21
Alejandro Escovedos new CD, Bourbonitis Blues, is nothing more than one would expect from Americas most eclectic and multi-faceted performer. A lot of covers on this CD- more than one would hope for from this gifted songwriter. It would be tough to top More Miles Than Money, but I find these songs enchanting and interesting. However, I must admit, and most people who have seen Alejandro live will admit, it is impossible to transfer the live gig to CD. I have seen Al in concert multiple times and it is a truly spiritual experience. A performer, entertainer, music, shaman. This CD is definately worth the money, but see him live for the real experience. He is on tour all summer so keep your eye out. Bourbonitis Blues will satisfy the current Alejandro fans and is sure to pull in some more. The sheer variety of music available here is sure to please any music-lover in one fashion or another. By the way, blast I Was Drunk from your stereo if you want to get the point of it. Cheers.
Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
If these are the blues, let me have em! at 2001-04-19
I first had the pleasure of seeing Alejandro Escovedo playing Stones covers at a hoot night show in Austin, Texas, back in 1989, and later got a chance to actually meet him. He has never put on a bad show, mixing his dozens of musical influences---British rock, southern American country and Delta blues, punk, folk, mariachi, even classical---into a kind of sonic gumbo of different things that taste amazingly good. He is also an incredibly charismatic performer, when you see him doing his own thing, or with his band, Buick McKane; this guy can do a blistering cover of Hot Legs by Rod Stewart, and then follow it with an alt-country song so mournful you can feel his sadness seeping into your very pores. Bourbonitis Blues is a terrific example of his great talent, soul, musical inventiveness, and instrumental virtuosity; his songwriting craft is beyond brilliant, and he never seems to run dry of ability to sing, play, and compose in many different genres. Escovedo may be the most brilliant musician youve never heard of, and that should change---and soon! Whether its Stonesy/Faces-y booze-rock (Guilty), or touching, Gram Parsons-style country-folk (California Blues), he can do it all! Buy this record; play it constantly; go see him perform in a city near you; dig the hell out of his sound---youll be damn glad ya did!
Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
Escovedos latest is a one of his best. at 2001-02-24
Escovedos latest CD features the Escovedo trademark - Cello and Violin. It is his use and arrangements of these two instruments that creates his unique sound. Sometimes they will be used as strings, other times they play attack rhythm like rhythm guitars and on others they play horn parts. Bourbonitis Blues is more rock than previous efforts and is a wonderful musical portrait of the artist. It is very hard for me to compare Alejandros music to someone that you might know. However, his greatest recommendation is that people bring their friends or just come to see him live by accident and then they all leave as loyal fans with more than one CD under their arm. When listening try Everybody Loves Me (tr#6), Pale Blue Eyes (tr#7) and I was Drunk (tr#1).
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More Miles Than Money: Live 1994-96
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Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
too bad about the money, al at 2000-11-18
really nice disk from austin-based alt.country rocker alejandro escovedo. actually, the alt.country label may be both overly confining and misleading: escovedo started out as a punk (the nuns) and subsequently moved through a variety of bands including punk-country (rank and file) new romantic (the troobs) revivalist (buick mckane). his bands often feature strings (as in violin and cello). so what weve got is a middle-aged singer-songwriter with a punk background and string players in his band. uh-huh.one could argue with some of the song selections (wheres put you down?) but the covers are interesting (the stones sway, lou reeds street hassle and a violin/cello driven version of the stooges i wanna be your dog. yeah, you read that last part right. he turns the string players loose on that one and they make like the second coming of john cale.
Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
From a whisper to a scream at 2006-03-23
A great album. Of course it doesnt capture the pure, raging range of Escovedos live shows, but it comes close. (And in any event, what one album possibly could? Of the ten best concerts Ive ever seen, nine of them were Escovedo, and virtually all of those featured a different instrument line-up, from 7-piece punk ensemble to string quartet.) Besides, the cover of I Wanna Be Your Dog is virtually an out of body experience.
Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
A really good record at 1999-12-30
This is my favorite solo Escovedo record -- it catches his world-weary sound much better than his studio recordings. The live versions of his own songs, particularly _Pissed Off_, and _Broken Bottle_ are riveting, and his choice of covers nothing short of inspired. And, its great to hear his punk rock roots showing on _I Wanna Be Your Dog_ and _Street Hassle_.Put this one on late at night, with a smoke in one hand and a double-scotch in the other. Trust me, youll feel better.
Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
One of the few American musicians who really matter. at 1999-06-07
Although often lumped into the alt-country grab bag of styles, Escovedos music defies simple categorization. He deftly navigates the disparate influences of folk, rock, punk, country, and many other styles. The whole, however, stands far greater than the sum of its parts.
Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
the next best thing at 2001-10-27
this album is only a shadow of what alejandro escovedo is like live. his music is moving...he has a gift that enables him to really touch your soul when you here him. overall, a very good album. if you are lucky enough to have him visit your town, please give him a listen...it will be entirely worthwhile.
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The End/Losing Your Touch
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Thirteen Years
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Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
A sad, quirky look at love, lost and found. at 1999-06-04
Alejandro wrote this album mostly as a dedication to his late ex-wife. The words and music convey not only the problems she and they may have had but also the love he felt for her.This was the first Escavedo album I bought and that was at a concert of his. It was the first show I had ever seen where I actually got chills, the music was that beautiful. A cello, violin and traditional rock instruments blended for an incredible evening. From that point I was a confirmed Alejandro fan. This album just made me a lifetime fan. Get it today, along with all his albums, you will not be dissapointed.
Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
The most seductive head banger I ever saw - wow! at 1999-06-16
The first time a buddy and I went to see Alejandro Escovedos Orchestra at OFF BROADWAY in an old south St. Louis neighborhood, we were two of 20 people in the place, counting the band. It was early 1994, not long after BALLAD OF THE SUN AND MOON was released. Alejandros band consisted of a lead guitar, bass, drums, violin, two cellos, with himself on rhythm guitar and vocals. Wow! He has such a knack for pulling you into his life very smoothly, right before delivering his knock out punch. What songs, what lyrics, what passion, what virtuoso playing, and what instrument selection. During his live shows Alejandro will lead into songs with a little story, like when Bela Bartok and Iggy Pop got involved, and finish the story in song. When last years three piece band (AE, viloin, cello) played Iggys DO THE DOG, the entire place was quivering. We have continued to watch Alejandro grow, and suddenly so have many others. All of AEs music is strong, but my first experience with BALLAD OF THE SUN AND THE MOON is still my favorite.
Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
Beautiful at 2002-12-05
Using a beautiful strings section, this is a record that never falls in heavy bad taste. As a whole it sounds like an hymn - well, it is. Its an admirable effort in a lyrical way, a haunting and pleasant listen. Some rocking moments are welcome, and excellent (Losing Your Touch, Mountain Of Mud).Bonus CD: four instrumental mixes, and four live songs (a personal version of Lou Reeds Pale Blue Eyes among them).Beautiful cover art, excellent sound, this is a satisfying re-issue.
Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
Harrowing. Roots rock to Soutwestern chamber music at 2006-03-22
Vol 1. Concept album on his reaction to the suicide of his lover and the mother of his children. Harrowing if you pay attention. Unlike anything I have ever heard-like, maybe, chamber music by Gram Parsons. But Escovedos voice is always more interesting. From powerful, roots-based rock and roll to strings-based whatever, from his own Chamber Southwest group. Standouts: tr 4-Way it goes (Country-rock anthem that grows from a quiet personal statement to something resonant and bigger. Lyric: God bless the child that dont have a mother to put her to sleep.). tr 5-Losing your touch (slamming, anthemic rocker that might have come from the Midwest (Bob Seger) or the Stones). tr 10-Tell me while (seemingly from country weeper by Gram Parsons into Escoveda Chamber Southwest). tr 13-Babys got new plans (anthem of personal loss with the resonance of a last Indian tribe in New Mexico). tr 14-The end (Lyric: Ive got some questions that need answering.... This is really the end.) [52:25]Vol. 2. Tender, acoustic, elegiac tracks, including 4 instrumental takes on Vol. 1 tracks; 3 live versions of tracks not on Disc 1, and a rocking take on Gravity. Stand-outs: tr 8-Helpless (slow funky strut that makes me think about Peggy Lee or the Blasters). tr 9-Mountain of mind (straight-ahead country rocker). [37:45]
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Gravity
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Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
fantastic...... at 2000-09-26
This earlier solo project is nothing short of incredible. Heartfelt lyrics with great acoustic instrumentation. Gravitywas follwed by Thirteen Years (...), an absolutemasterpiece - talk about singing from the soul.
Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
His voice is the sound of five hearts breaking... at 2000-02-21
This album is incredible! The quote above is from one of his songs but can just as well pertain to him. Buy this record and enjoy and hopefully his live show will be coming to a town near you!
Alejandro Escovedo Album Review:
Splendid re-issue!! at 2002-12-05
I dont know for the States, but Alejandro Escovedo is unknown in Europe (at least in France), except by special music lovers of course. I discovered him last year only myself, with his beautiful album A Man Under The Influence. Im so lucky to have found out this Gravity re-issue, along with the Thirteen Years one, both are nothing but splendid! Satisfying at any level: the quality of the sound, the beauty of the booklet, of the cover art, and especially of the music! Gravity is a masterpiece. As lyrical as the best of Pink Floyd (from Dark Side and The Wall), as beautiful and pure as the best of the Velvet Underground or Lou Reed (think of the violins of Street Hassle), with sometimes rocks as good as the Rolling Stones ones. What could I say more?? The voice of Alejandro is raw and moving. His music is simple and inspired. His subjects are experienced from life. We fell in love and its never funny he sings in Last To Know.Bonus CD: eight live songs from the same album, recorded in Santa Monica in 1993, plus a cover of Ian Hunters I Wish I Was Your Mother. The customer is happy! :o)
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