Sunday 27 December 2009

Noughties #78: Matt Sweeney/Bonnie 'Prince' Billy "Superwolf" (Palace/Drag City 2005)

Will Oldham (Bonnie 'Prince' Billy) has demonstrated a prolific talent over the past two decades, but in recent years it is this collaboration with Matt Sweeney (frontman of Skunk/Chavez) that really convinces. Oldham's mark is all over the record: insular folk songs with minimal, darkly sweet accoustic accompaniment. Although the music is still a vehicle for guiding us through the terrain of one man's personal and metaphysical battles, with a friend on standby in the background, we feel that hope is at hand. The song-writing is also the strongest since I See A Darkness (1999), the strength and simplicity of the melodies really make this record, and provide a fine backdrop to the introspective storytelling.

Highlights:
youtube.com/matt sweeney & bonnie 'prince' billy - my home is the sea
youtube.com/matt sweeney & bonnie 'prince' billy - a beast for thee (live)
youtube.com/matt sweeney & bonnie 'prince' billy - i gave you

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