The Big Takeover
Counting his excellent 2004 LP with The Band That Murdered Silence, Cancion del Pollo, this is Spring’s fourth LP. And despite the absence of those band members on this album (with the exception of backing vocalist Melinda Friedman on three tracks), this one is even better than his last. The arrangements are more varied and inviting, and Spring’s co-production (with Johnny Sangster, who also contributes musically) is warmer and more full-bodied. But as before, it’s Spring’s exceptional storytelling skills and captivating lyrics that keep the listener enthralled. Perhaps his arduous childhood experiences traveling throughout the U.S. (detailed on the CD’s back sleeve) contribute to his ability to create such vivid, emotional narratives. Whether describing thrilling yarns about daring prison breaks or failed drug-running attempts (”Chinatown”, “Culiacan”), reminiscing about old lovers or friends (”Does She Still?”, the beautiful standout “November”), or editorializing on our nation¢®s decline of free speech rights and civil liberties (”Joe McCarthy is Sweeping Off His Grave”), Spring’s campfire tales never fail to leave one contented.