Greg Brown - The Evening Call

This record was released in 2006 but I only bought it early in ‘07 after reading a 5 (outa 5!) star review in Mojo (or was it Uncut?). To be honest I didn’t like the record all that much on first listen. That rapidly changed though when I actually started to pay attention. There is something absolutely compelling about this record. The first thing you notice is the Voice: a superb instrument- deep, rich, smokey and centerpiece of every song. Next come the lyrics: Greg Brown is a poet and marvelous storyteller. Apparently his recent marriage has wrought a bountiful harvest. (Congratulations Greg!). Wonderful production from producer and long time friend/band-mate Bo Ramsey (great guitarist!!) along with a great cast of musicians (guitars, bass, drums and piano) perfectly frame each song yet gives ample room for Browns commanding voice and story. Hey, the first sentence in the CD starts off with: “I woke up this morning wishing it would rain…” (Joy Tears) and the last sentence in the last song (Whippoorwill) reads: “… So let love be home, and let the whippoorwill sing”. In between is a marvelous journey for you to discover friends. I never, ever tire of listening to this record.
Greg Brown has something like 27 albums in his discography. This man is not a little player. If you want to hear the best of what can be great about songs and songwriting then this CD can go at the top of the list. This man is truly a master craftsman and The Evening Call is a masterwork!
Recommended listening: Bucket, Eugene, Skinny Days.

Bookerfatz2

Web: gregbrown.org

Greg Brown - Eugene .mp3 via The Late Greats

Greg Brown - Poet Game .mp3 from Poet Game (1994)
Greg Brown - Hey Baby Hey .mp3 from Futher In (1996)
Greg Brown - Two Little Feet .mp3 from Futher In (1996)