Lucinda Williams West

One of our favorite singer-songwriters over the years has been Lucinda Williams. Her work is exceptionally evocative and her concerts are outstanding. Last time we saw her play in 2005, she played a nice mix of newer and older material in her distinctive vocal style.

On Amazon.com, Don McLeese writes on West:

"Though the arrangements stray from Lucinda Williams's motherlode blend of blues, country, and folk, West may well be her best album. It is easily her most musically adventurous, and often her most lyrically inspired. Williams's singing has never sounded better, from the aching tenderness of 'Where Is My Love?' to the ravaged catharsis of 'Unsuffer Me.' New York producer Hal Willner, who has worked with artists such as Marianne Faithful and Lou Reed, enlists the support of eclectic progressives like guitarist Bill Frisell, keyboardist Bob Burger, and violinist Jenny Scheinman, along with harmonies from the Jayhawks' Gary Louris, to weave a subtly rich sonic tapestry. Much of the material was inspired by the death of Williams's beloved mother ('Mama You Sweet,' 'Fancy Funeral') and the bitter breakup of a relationship (the jagged-edged emasculation of 'Come On,' the repetitive incantation of 'Wrap My Head Around That'), though 'Are You Alright?,' 'Learning How to Live,' and 'Everything Has Changed' could reflect the aftermath of both. Other highlights include 'Rescue,' with a languid subtlety and ambient pulse reminiscent of Beth Orton, and the dreamy, wistful title track. Where Williams's music has long cut close to the bone, the best of West slices right through it.

Scheduled for release on February 13, the CD is now available for pre-order from Amazon.com Lucinda Williams' West (Support Thrasher's Wheat. Thanks!)