Loudon Wainwright III : Recovery :: Review
‘Recovery’ is a new collaboration with Joe Henry, and finds Loudon Wainwright III in an introspective mood. ‘Recovery’ is a rerecording of Wainwright’s extensive back catalog infused with Wainwright’s maturity. It’s similar to looking at a bunch of old photographs and putting new insights into the past. Joe Henry provides the tasteful arrangements on this album and does not obscure Wainwright’s lyrics with too much flourish.
Wainwright’s best songs on this album are the ones with the most sardonic touches. Dark songwriting has always been this man’s forte. Standout tracks on this album include, “School Days,” “Muse Blues” and “Be Careful There’s A Baby In The House.” Those may be my favorites, but the rest of the album is solid. Album closer, “The Man Who Couldn’t Cry” is a personal favorite with its list of problems and resolutions. Joe Henry’s string arrangement accentuates the drama of this song perfectly.
File this one in updated classics.
