Heartache. That's the way this album starts with the upbeat blues-shuffle song "Repo Man". With an angry vocal tone that sounds a lot like Joe Cocker, Ray LaMontagne sings about not taking his lover back after the word is out that she has been rejected by her current fling. "What makes you think that I will take you back again? I ain't your Repo Man!" Great guitar and drum work throughout. A great song.
Following that up, he goes right into the soul-searching "New York City's Killing Me". In this slow, Stephen Stills-esque ballad, Ray longs for the country to "have a couple drinks with the good 'ol boys"
Chorus
Just got to get me somewhere
Somewhere that I can feel free
Get me out of New York City, son
New York City's killing me
Laden with steel guitars and rock-a-billy style solos, it has a bit of a country flavor with folk-style vocals. As I'm sure that anyone who has spent time in a large city can attest, sometimes you just long for a change of scenery. Once again, Ray LaMontagne connects with his fans on a personal level.
According to Wikipedia (and if it's there, you know it's true) Ray had a rough childhood with a traveling mother and a musician father that abandoned their family. He originally wanted nothing to do with music, but decided to start writing and performing after hearing a Stephen Stills song. So, you can see where he gets the inspiration for some of his more heartfelt writings.
Hopefully, his recent success doesn't put a damper on his passion. You may remember Taylor Hicks singing his song "Trouble" on American Idol, as well as Chris Sligh, in season 6. His songs have also been featured on many TV shows including ER, One Tree Hill, House, Rescue Me, Law and Order: Criminal Intent, Bones, Covert Affairs, and Parenthood.
Here is the song "Be Here Now" which was featured in the movie "27 Dresses"
A shy performer, Ray LaMontagne sometimes performs in the dark to avoid distracting bright lights, and to separate himself from his audience. He also refrains from doing videos, leaving that to the "beautiful people". Other than the obvious influence of Stephen Stills, Wikipedia also claims that Richard Manual and Rick Danko help to shape his style, and that critics compare his music to The Band, Van Morrison, Nick Drake, and Tim Buckley.
Judge for yourself. Here is the link to the album.
Song list:
Repo Man
New York City's Killing Me
God Willin' & the Creek Don't Rise
Beg Steal or Borrow
Are We Really Through
This Love is Over
Old Before Your Time
For the Summer ***Another favorite of mine
Like Rock & Roll Radio *** This one too!
The Devil's In the Jukebox
Anyway, if you're tired of the same old music, and looking for something that finally has some depth and passion, this is the album for you!
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