PAUL KELLY
...Nothing But A Dream (True North)
Reviewed by John Sekerka

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The Australian Bob Dylan? Maybe, but Paul Kelly actually sings on his records. Success abroad still eludes this fine singer songwriter, and though he continues to make wonderful music, his fate is sealed. It's cult status over here where Kelly's music is heard only by those in the know. You can join in. It really doesn't hurt, honest. If Kelly has a fault it is his prolific nature, releasing records at a feverish rate, most being sprawling, hour long sessions. The latest record, a bit oversentimental at times, is enhanced with the inclusion of the meaty Roll On Summer EP. This brilliant 4-track collection, starts with the bouncy "You're So Fine" and finishes with a hilarious live reading of "Every Fucking City." Here Kelly dissects life on the lonely road with clever bits like being able to "order sandwiches in seven different languages" (nice rhyming to boot). It doesn't get much better than this.

© 2002 - John Sekerka