This one was a happy find for 50p in a charity shop last week, not something I could leave there.
I've already reviewed his anthology Morning Glory, but this is the only one of the albums it draws from that I've bought.
Greetings From L.A. was Buckley's 7th album, so by now he was a well established artist (though only 25), if not a big seller. My initial feelings are that it's very listenable, with lots to like.
Move With Me is a powerful, funky tune with a soulful sax/piano middle eight, and delivered in Buckley's distinctive tone. Get On Top continues this mood, with a bit more vocal gymnastics and a soulful organ accompaniment, while Sweet Surrender is slower and more angst-ridden, much more like his earlier work, although a backing reminiscent of Isaac Hayes carries it through at first. I enjoyed it but by the seventh minute, I'd had enough.
Nighthawkin' is a listenable funky tune, without really impressing, as is Devil Eyes, although Buckley lets his vocal range run a little more freely here. The mood slows down for Hong Kong Bar, a very minimalist, perhaps overlong piece, and the album finishes with initially a more Latin feel in Make It Right, soon lost once the strings kick it, but enjoyable nevertheless.
I've enjoyed listening to this album, reflecting that 40 minutes is the right length for an album, enough to enjoy without outstaying its welcome. It's not all stunners, but there's enough to merit occasional revisits.
3* - a decent enough listen, without stretching the listener
Kommentare