ALEJANDRO ESCOVEDO

Real Animal

2008-06-01

Escovedo's ninth release and the second since he made a triumphant comeback from death's door (due to hepatitis C), is a joy-filled reflection on his musical career, with buddy Chuck Prophet on board as co-songwriter and band mate helping A.E. tell his rock 'n roll story. The record starts with a bang, as the first four cuts rock out with an early Los Lobos feel. A.E. settles into some slower reminiscences after that, with two exceptions -- a punk-style tribute to one of his rock idols, Iggy Pop ("Real as an Animal") and a rock-beat reminder of his early rock days ("Chip 'n' Tony"). "Chelsea" refers to his time hanging out with infamous punksters Sid and Nancy. This guy's been around! After thinking of A.E. as a brooding but brilliant musician, I liked hearing this side of him -- enjoying the music and the musicians he's met along the way. Standout tracks: "Always a Friend," "Sister Lost Soul" and "Swallows of San Juan." 06/08 MJVD F-Rock

Quick Links:

More reviews tagged #Folk

  • reviewed 08/2016

    Dave McGraw & Mandy Fer
    Off Grid Lo-Fi

  • reviewed 07/2009

    THE TRACTORS
    Trade Union

  • reviewed 10/2010

    HEIDI TALBOT
    The Last Star

  • reviewed 02/2014

    Sara Jean Kelley
    The Waiting Place

  • reviewed 03/2016

    RJ Comer
    Nightly Suicide

  • reviewed 01/2007

    KEITH SYKES
    Let It Roll

Compiled by the WYCE Journalism Club

The opinions expressed in these reviews are those of the individual volunteers that submitted the article and do not necessarily reflect the views of WYCE or GRCMC; nor its staff, donors, or affiliates.