Jesse Winchester: Gentleman of Leisure (Sugar Hill)
Not so much a blast from the past as a soft dry wind still blowing sure, Jesse Winchester cruises back into the spotlight. If the name even triggers vague notions of recognition, take a bow, because this is only the Memphis singer/songwriter's second album in 18 years - though his songs continue to be recorded by the likes of Wynonna Judd. Perhaps the royalties have made a gentleman of leisure of Winchester, but the easy pace should not obscure the man's subtle artistry, whether he is mining the R&B seams or rolling in the country rhythms. Tracks like the gospel-tinged Evil Angel or the soft soul toe-tapper, Club Manhattan (with Steve Cropper on guitar), showcase the quiet intelligence of his lyrics while tempting you into a sweet shuffle.
- Joe Breen
Darrell Scott: Family Tree (Sugar Hill)
Darrell Scott, whose mandolin played such a key role on Guy Clark's recently released Cold Dog Soup, shows on this, his second album, that he is no slouch when it comes to writing a decent tune himself. And they are not simple vehicles for his immaculate playing. If anything he is a mite too sparing with his intricate playing, but by allowing the songs to breathe in simple and imaginative arrangements (featuring a host of guest singers like Tim O'Brien) he serves the cause of great tunes such as My Father's House, Rhonda's Last Ride and She Sews the World With Love. Although the styles vary, there is more r&b than Nashville, and more folk than bluegrass. But these fine story songs are above genre ghettoes and all the better for it.
- Joe Breen
More CDs reviewed in tomorrow's Weekend supplement.
