Search - Bob Dylan :: Empire Burlesque

The neverending mystery of Bob Dylan

Elizabeth A. Dice | Salem, MA | 06/26/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I probably listen to this album more than almost any other of his, and I own a lot of Dylan. During his entire career, Dylan has resisted being pigeon-holed, and this album is a perfect example of that, since it doesn't fit neatly into any easy category such as folk Dylan, country Dylan, rock Dylan, or gospel Dylan.



Some people think Bob Dylan sounds as if he gargles with drain cleaner. Though I actually like Dylan's voice most of the time, in my opinion, it's his song writing that makes him unique. I consider him one of the best lyricists of the last 30 years. Although his lyrics are not as tightly worked as they were earlier in his career, many of the songs on this album nevertheless offer those inimitable phrases for which he is so justly famous, such as "Something is burning, baby; here's what I say. Even the bloodhounds of London couldn't find you today," or

"You're the one I've been looking for,

You're the one that's got the key.

But I can't figure out whether I'm too good for you

Or you're too good for me."



The only song on the album I don't like is "Mixed-up kid." Both the words and the melody seem to go "blam, blam, blam." I end up feeling as if I'm being hit over the head with a hammer.



My suggestion is to approach the album with an open mind and give it a listen. It might just grow on you."

Come On Bob

The Plunkster | Fairfield, OH United States | 07/02/2008

(3 out of 5 stars)

"Don't throw things please, but as a huge Dylan fan, who owns just about everything he ever released, this one just never did anything for me. I play this every now and then, and nothing ever jumps out at me. I have to put it among Dylan's 3 worst. There is a reason why Amazon is selling it for $5.97. It's just not very good.



It is a necessary item to have for the true Dylan fan, but if you are just a casual observer, stick with the classics---like "Blonde On Blonde", "Blood On The Tracks" or "Highway 61"."

Seeing the real you at last

Tom Benton | North Springfield, VT USA | 02/01/2009

(4 out of 5 stars)

"The distinctly Eighties production makes this, no doubt about it, Dylan's most dated album sonically; in other aspects, it holds up well. Lyrically, Dylan was back in solid shape--these ten songs are catchy, sturdy, pointed, and, thankfully, a little snarly. Especially pointed: "Clean Cut Kid," as good as any song protesting the Vietnam War. Especially pretty: "Emotionally Yours," arguably Dylan's prettiest since "You're a Big Girl Now." Especially Eighties: the disco Dylan rave "When the Night Comes Falling from the Sky," which, I admit, I dig. "Highway 61" it ain't, but a great record it is."