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2004-04-04 20:26:18 ET Can any one say Folk Rock?? That's about as close as you can come to classifying this long-awaited second solo album from the prolific song-writer and lead singer of the Slackers. Totally stripped down, the album consists of nothing more than Vic, his guitar and his words. 10 songs long, it's a good mix of personal songs from the heart, political/social-minded songs, and fun rockin' tunes. Here's the break-down - kicking off with "Mean + Nasty," a solid hit-the-road, guitar-rock song. "Vic's Lament" is a " 'til the early morning" is a strict folk song about a poor guy, only having his love to give. Into the political stuff, we have "International WC," where the WC stands for War Criminal, where Vic seems to be discussing the similarities and differences between our current President and a certain Turkish Dictator. "American Psychopath" is a wonderful contemplation/rant on how pop-culture can twist a man into something else. Easily influenced by the Stones. no question. Here's a great fun one, "20 Flight Rock," which Vic didn't write, it's actually by Eddie Cochran, but Mr. Ruggiero delivers it in true Chuck Berry style. "Parking Lot" is a nice song about the moment of realization that you are actually happy and content with your life. Next up, surprisingly, is a Slackers song. Vic here performs "Yes It's True" from the album "The Question." while I still prefer the Slackers version simply for what the full band lends to it, it's always nice to hear a song performed by the songwriter alone. (the exception being Paul Simon) "Animales" is... well... you'll hear it. Lastly, "86 the Mayo" is a wonderful, Dylan-esque thoughtful song about the abandonment of a generation... I think. So all in all, it's just great to hear some new stuff from this great songwriter. I don't know if I like it better than his first solo, but you really can't compare, because he had a full band and the full use of Version City for that one. make your own call. if you can find a copy. |
