‘Beware’ is nothing to be afraid of

By Gus Bode

Bonnie ‘Prince’ Billy

‘Beware’

Release Date: 3/17

Advertisement

Record Label: Drag City

Rating: B-

This is a beautiful, haunting record. But, those adjectives always seem to be attached to Will Oldham’s work. Whether he’s recording under his own name, as ‘Prince’ or as Palace Music, the artist has a knack for crafting near-perfect folk music.

Over the last few years Oldham has beefed up his sound, including a backing band on records. ‘Beware’ still contains moments of his dark, sparse work but like last year’s ‘Lie Down in the Light’, this record has more to do with 1970s folk-rock.

This Oldham has more to do with Neil Young or ‘Desire’-era Dylan than John Hartford.

The record is an incredibly pleasant listen. It is full of twang, beautiful harmonies and the occasional flute or string section to punch things up.

The thing is, Oldham put out basically the same record just a year ago. Was new material really necessary after releasing a similar full length not too long ago?

Advertisement*

The answer is a resounding yes. When an artists has their sound solidified the way Oldham does, any new tunes are a pleasant and welcome surprise.

Also, the album’s great cover earns it some more love. Bald men of the world can be proud as Oldham shows off his own chrome dome on the front of the insert.

Luke McCormick can be reached at 536-3311 ext. 275 or [email protected]

Advertisement