As a long time fan of the Jayhawks, I was excited at the prospect of Mark Olson and Gary Louris playing together again -- perhaps my expectations were set too high. The Jayhawks loaded their songs with big beautiful hooks, jangly and ringing guitars, and high yearning harmonies. Those three elements are largely absent in Ready for the Flood. It's quieter, consisting mostly of just two guys with their guitars casually recording a collection of folk and Americana. Overall, it's a very pleasant album. "Doves And Stones" and "Gospel Song For You" are my favorites of the bunch. I'm sure the songs will continue to grow on me, but I can't help but wonder what they would've sounded like if Olson and Louris decided to fill out the album out with a full band. Maybe next time.
February 12, 2009
Mark Olson & Gary Louris - Ready For The Flood (2009)
As a long time fan of the Jayhawks, I was excited at the prospect of Mark Olson and Gary Louris playing together again -- perhaps my expectations were set too high. The Jayhawks loaded their songs with big beautiful hooks, jangly and ringing guitars, and high yearning harmonies. Those three elements are largely absent in Ready for the Flood. It's quieter, consisting mostly of just two guys with their guitars casually recording a collection of folk and Americana. Overall, it's a very pleasant album. "Doves And Stones" and "Gospel Song For You" are my favorites of the bunch. I'm sure the songs will continue to grow on me, but I can't help but wonder what they would've sounded like if Olson and Louris decided to fill out the album out with a full band. Maybe next time.
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1 Comments:
I too was excited by this album, but a bit let down. I love the Jayhawks, but am now starting to wonder if I just love Gary Louris, who also happened to lead the Jayhawks. As long as Louris keeps pumping out awesome solo albums, I'll be a happy lady.
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