CD Review -The Bottle Rockets: Not So Loud
Every once in a while something happens to instill a refreshing outlook on familiar things. My old dog chases her tail and reminds me of when she was a puppy. My daughter gives me a hug for no reason and reminds me that once upon a time she wasn’t growing up quite so fast. And The Bottle Rockets release an acoustic disc that reminds me that I became a fan because of the songs.
Not So Loud- An Acoustic Evening With The Bottle Rockets was recorded over two nights at the now defunct Lucas Schoolhouse in St. Louis, Missouri. Ranging from twangy roots banjo to a full onslaught of acoustic rock, the disc is a nice new setting for ‘the best band in the world.’ Singer/guitarist Brian Henneman, drummer Mark Ortmann, bassist Keith Voegele and guitarist John Horton assembled for two nights of intimate music. Highlights include “Gravity Fails”, the rarely played “One Of You” and “Turn for the Worse” which includes a guest spot from Kip Louie.
None of the songs suffer from these acoustic renditions but several reveal a bit more depth. “Perfect So Far Away” is introduced by Brian with a story of how the song came to be. His relaxed manner and friendly banter makes the listener realize how intimate the acoustic setting can be. This song is just a bit different in the acoustic version compared to the live power of the electric instrumentation it usually wears. The change reveals some depth that might be missed in the The Bottle Rockets powerful electric shows. It’s refreshing to hear the songs without being blown away with electricity.
On the other hand… our children grown up and spread their wings, our dogs grow from shoe gnawers to trusted friends and The Bottle Rockets are a rock band. While their songs have more depth than it may seem on first listen and the acoustic setting reveals some wonderful interplay in the band, The Bottle Rockets are built on power. They thrive on electricity. Don’t expect to hear an acoustic set when they come to town. In fact, hope you don’t. This band ‘brings it’ every night in their live show. As a result you need to buy this disc. Without it you may be missing the full experience of The Bottle Rockets.
Track Listing:
1. Early In the Morning |
2. Gravity Fails |
3. Lucky Break |
4. Perfect Far Away |
5. One of You |
6. I Don’t Want To Go Home |
7. 1000 Dollar Car |
8. Kit Kat Clock |
9. Smokin’ 100’s Alone |
10. Turn For the Worse |
11. Rural Route |
12. Kerosene |
13. Mom & Dad |