There are times when I think that Hollywood Town Hall by Minneapolis' finest band The Jayhawks is perhaps the greatest album of all time. There is never a time when I don't think that it is one of the top 10 albums of all time.
From 1992 on the Def American label it was their third album, their first on a major label and the one which shot them to prominence.
The classic line up of Marc Olson on vocals/ acoustic guitar, Gary Louris on vocals and electric and fuzzy guitar, Marc Perlman on bass and Ken Callahan on drums. Production by George Drakoulias
It seems to have been released to mixed views but not to these ears.
Ten tracks ( two of which Two Angels and Martin's Song also appeared on their 2nd album Blue Earth) and 42:36 in length.
The band has produced ten albums in total.Tomorrow the Green Grass and Rainy Day Music being for me the best of the rest with this remaining the pinacle. I did an ICA on them over at JC's place
It was around then that I first saw them live. The first of many occassions.
Any of the ten tracks could have easily featured but I've gone for two which haven't graced these pages before.
The Jayhawks - Two Angels
The Jayhawks - Settled Down Like Rain
Don't wish to be controversial but, while this is a great album, I actually prefer Tomorrow the Green Grass
ReplyDeleteI respectfully disagree
DeleteI had an enjoyable debate with Brian on this very topic.
Not many bands could produce two albums of that quality
'Tomorrow the Green Grass' probably gets my vote too, but either way, they're both sensational albums.
DeleteMy copy was bought from Polar Bear records in Birmingham for £10.99, and the labels tell me it was reduced by £2. I might have opted for the Bunkhouse Album. Or this one.
ReplyDeleteThere is a strong camp that supports Tomorrow the Green Grass, my wife included, but you have chosen wisely, CC. Words fail when I attempt to describe how much I love this album.
ReplyDeleteHad to go and listen to the whole thing. Thanks for the nudge. What a delight.
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