With all the hype surrounding this recording coupled with the recent death of Joey Strummer, I figured why not try this CD on for size? My expectations were a heavy punk influenced recording with searing guitars and screaming vocals. What I heard were some varying textures and instrumental definition.
Most of the arrangements are pretty clever. I was certainly surprised to hear some spunky regaae beats and creative horn arrangements behind the guitar, bass, and drums on such as tracks as Jimmy Jazz and Rudy Can't Fail. Some good keyboard passages exist as well particularly on The Card Cheat. Interesting vocal stylings exists as well. Love the harmonies on Death or Glory. And how about Joey Strummers delivery on the title track.
Certainly a likeable recording. Definitely consistent as the worst songs rate as decent and certainly listenable while the best ones are very good but not quite spectacular. This disc falls short of the classic category as as vocalists these guys are technically a bit weak.  Also no one will every mistake the guitar sounds to be anywhere near the level of Eric Clapton, Mark Knophler, or even George Thorogood. However, the catchy arrangements make this release a positive listening experience.  I can only hope that the die hard fans can respect my middle of the road views.
With all the hype surrounding this recording coupled with the recent death of Joey Strummer, I figured why not try this CD on for size? My expectations were a heavy punk influenced recording with searing guitars and screaming vocals. What I heard were some varying textures and instrumental definition. Most of the arrangements are pretty clever. I was certainly surprised to hear some spunky regaae beats and creative horn arrangements behind the guitar, bass, and drums on such as tracks as Jimmy Jazz and Rudy Can't Fail. Some good keyboard passages exist as well particularly on The Card Cheat. Interesting vocal stylings exists as well. Love the harmonies on Death or Glory. And how about Joey Strummers delivery on the title track. Certainly a likeable recording. Definitely consistent as the worst songs rate as decent and certainly listenable while the best ones are very good but not quite spectacular. This disc falls short of the classic category as as vocalists these guys are technically a bit weak. Also no one will every mistake the guitar sounds to be anywhere near the level of Eric Clapton, Mark Knophler, or even George Thorogood. However, the catchy arrangements make this release a positive listening experience. I can only hope that the die hard fans can respect my middle of the road views.