Search - Al Stewart :: 24 Carrots

Tied for Second Best Al Stewart Album

James Cantrell | Tennessee | 05/10/2002

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I came to see about getting this on CD now that my album, bought the day it arrived in my local record store, is now worn out. It is typical that it is not in print. Holden Caulfield considered his brother, writing for Hollywood movies, to be prostituting his talent. ...As I don't give grades like candy, my rating of 4 should not be taken lightly. 24 Carrots is Stewart just below his best (Past, Present, and Future: a clear 5) and equal with Year of the Cat and Time Passages. The lyrics are intriguing, provoking, occasionally stunning; they expect us to know more than our bellies and genitals and to care enough to learn even more. The guitar work is precise. The combination guarantees that Stewart's work will not sell in this era of garbage in charge.'Constantinople' is especially relevant today. 'Merlin's Time' shows me that Stewart might be well served by going a long way toward the Celtic traditional music revival. Its fans certainly love and honor both intelligent lyrics and sharp picking."

Almost Whimsical by Al's Standards, but a GREAT album!

Russ Gifford | Nebraska | 02/13/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"24 P/Carrots surprises, and pleases, even after all these years. Musically, this could be Al at his most playful, comfortable with Peter White and Shot in the Dark providing great musical backing. Witness the very opening track - Running Man features a GREAT instrumental opening that hooks the listener, and mysterious lyrics that can't help but intrigue. The songs are strong, with lyrics that paint detailed pictures: Merlin's Time, Midnight Rocks, and Murmansk Run will remain with you. Mondo Sinistro is hilarious, and evokes memories of Dylan's humorous tracks, while Paint by Number is a stinging indictment.The original album was excellent, but the bonus tracks are three of the studio tracks are fine additions from that era. (Originally on Indian Summer (Live at the Roxy), included on this CD is Here in Angola, Indian Summer and Pandora.) Enjoy! This album actually is "24 Karats.""

Too much talent for average listeners

John Harwell | Grove City, OH USA | 01/26/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Al Stewart has long been an artist that does NOT deserve public recognition. He is too good to be grouped with "popular artists". For me to say his words paint pictures is a gross understatement. His lyrics are excellant, mostly historically based, that create an entire setting to a story. His magic continues from lyrics into outstanding musicianship. The production on this album is as good as I have ever heard on any album. This is a complete musical experience. Enjoy!"