Kurt Vile : Smoke Ring For My Halo :: Review
Bursting forth onto the blogosphere several years ago, Kurt Vile may be the closest thing this generation has to a modern folk rock artist who operates in a mostly classic rock fashion. Yet, Vile remains a mysterious curio that seems like only those who are truly in the know might have heard about. The music appreciation cult that surrounds Vile praises his introspective lyrics and his hazy delivery and lyricism while also duly noting his prowess on guitar. Kurt Vile’s fourth and best album, “Smoke Ring For My Halo” might expand his group of followers and give him the recognition he deserves.
“Smoke Ring For My Halo” is as atmospheric an album as its title suggests. If you’re a newcomer to the world of Kurt Vile, imagine an earthier and more subtle Bruce Springsteen crossed with John Fahey and you’ll get the picture. “Smoke Ring For My Halo” had production assistance from John Agnello (Sonic Youth, Dinosaur Jr.) who helped clarify the songs by removing some of the murkiness that previously surrounded them. That’s not to say that “Smoke Ring For My Halo” is a bright and shiny listen, there’s still a level of denseness that clouds the proceedings for effect.
The narcotic lullaby “Baby’s Arms” kicks things off in the right direction with some electronic burbling and a repetitive guitar pattern that burrows its way into your brain for some late night enjoyment. The upbeat first single “Jesus Fever” isn’t a call to arms, as you would think but some street philosophy from someone who has experienced a serious case of self-doubt, which is a recurring theme reflected again in both “Puppet To The Man and “On Tour.” “Puppet To The Man” amps up the drama with some skronky guitar and justifies Vile’s take on his status as a rock and roller. “On Tour” could have been penned by Neil Young in the early 70’s and placed on “Tonight’s The Night” because of its focus on backstabbing and “Lord of the Flies” business dealings that perpetuate in the music industry.
“Society Is My Friend” digs deeper into the sardonic world of Kurt Vile who resolutely offers his hand to drag you under. While Vile is earnest, you would hope there would be some light that would illuminate his way. “Runner Ups” follows the same darkening path that Vile has forged with “An entire nation drinking from a dirty cup…and those who realize his life is a running gag.” Although it seems that Vile’s life is crumbling around him at least he has “Runner Ups” as best friends to help see him through. Out of nowhere, the album takes a left turn and an airy guitar strum returns on “In My Time,” a reflective number that lightens the mood with its chorus-drenched solo.
Not all of the humor on “Smoke Ring For My Halo” is morose; “Peeping Tomboy” is track that recalls the deadpan Dylan when he was writing material like “Honey, Just Allow Me One More Chance.” The country lilt and slide guitar of title track “Smoke Ring For My Halo” feels like an exorcism has occurred because of the continued shift in mood. This shift paves the way for the climatic hazy showstopper of “Ghost Town” which references The Rolling Stones circa “Beggars Banquet.” Vile quietly closes the album with the looped “(shell blues)”, which serves as some sort of atonement for what came before.
“Smoke Ring For My Halo” is the work of an artist on the brink, catch it now before all of your buddies say “I told you so.”
Rating: 
