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 12/1969

    NEIL YOUNG
    Sugar Mountain Live At Canterbury House 1968

  • reviewed 02/2017

    Longboat
    D-(Minus)

  • reviewed 02/2009

    BLUE FEATHER
    Blue Feather

  • reviewed 10/2010

    JUDY COLLINS
    Paradise

  • reviewed 03/2008

    SALLY BARRIS
    Restless Soul

  • reviewed 12/2009

    JON TROAST
    Living Room

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.