BILL CALLAHAN | APOCALYPSE
Bill Callahan, best known as the force behind the experimental lo-fi band Smog, is out with another solo release, Apocalypse. This seven track album is conceived as a Western-style narrative, with Callahan as a drover – a cattle herder, and the title of the opening song – making his way across the wild frontier, stumbling in and out of love, and lamenting the bygone glory of America’s past and the decline of the modern nation. Callahan is a sharp songwriter, even referencing his musical heros, Kris Kristofferson, George Jones and Johnny Cash, casting them as guardians of the American way. Apocalypse’s blend of country, blues, and ’70s rock retains a downtempo quality, fitting for the somber allegory, and clocking in under 40 minutes, is a quick and gratifying listen. – Written by JFelton
SIMILAR | Bonnie ‘Prince’ Billy, Vic Chesnutt, Lambchop, Cass McCombs, Silver Jews, Smog, Songs: Ohia
posted by JFelton, May 4, 2011
BILL CALLAHAN | SOMETIMES I WISH WE WERE AN EAGLE
Sometimes I Wish We Were An Eagle again finds Bill Callahan’s vocals as the focal point over the rhythmic percussion and simple guitar arrangements that Callahan’s became known for over the past few decades as Smog. This album in both theme and sound is reflective, questioning, lamenting failed relationships and dashed hopes. Collaborator Brian Beattie provides somber accompaniment with string and horn arrangements to Callahan’s ragged baritone and confessional songwriting style. Sometimes I Wish We Were An Eagle moves Callahan’s music one step beyond previous efforts, with more intimate production flourishes that add fuller range of emotion to Callahan’s already striking songs.
posted by JFelton, April 20, 2009
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