RIAN MURPHY & WILL OLDHAM
All Most Heaven (Drag City)
Reviewed by John Sekerka

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Will Oldham: funny man? Sheesh, I suppose tis true. After years and years and recordings and recordings of desperate, introspective, heart-wrenching music, the artist formerly known as Palace (et al) spins out a flighty bit of cheery pop fluff. Assisted by an all-star cast of indie players (Jim O'Rourke, Rick Rizzo, KellyHogan, Archer Prewitt...), Oldham devises a mini opera of faux grandeur that includes, horn and string sections, and what I believe is a chorus of howling wolves. Madman O'Rourke is responsible for the music arrangements, and Rian Murphy's production work brings it all together nicely, yet it remains an Oldham work through and through. His quavery voice, no matter what the backing, still the riveting center piece as it should be.

© 2001 - John Sekerka