Search - Jez Lowe & Bad Pennies :: Tenterhooks

THIS BAD PENNY CAN KEEP COMING BACK AGAIN AND AGAIN...

Larry L. Looney | Austin, Texas USA | 03/20/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Jez Lowe is one of the undiscovered treasures of contemporary folk music. His writing has emotion, conscience, intelligence and individuality. The songwriting here (as on all of his many releases) is first-rate, and the arrangements are tasteful, not over-wrought -- a trap into which all too many artists fall. The songs here give the listener a crystal-clear look into the lives of their characters -- whether the northern English coal miners among which Lowe grew up, a parent looking back at a disintegrated family, or someone from the younger generation speaking to a member of the old -- and we come away changed, more knowledgable about the feelings and outlook of others. There's even a song about a talking dog -- done up with some wry humor, to be sure, but containing an important warning to humans about the mistreatment of our animal brothers and sisters. Lowe sings most of the leads (one notable exception is long-time Bad Penny Bev Sanders' fine rendition of 'Alibi child'), with able backing from the rest of the band. The instruments are all acoustic, with the occasional, tasteful use of a keyboard. These songs will get into the listeners heart and soul and live there for years -- the true test of fine writing. Check out other great releases from Jez -- 'The parish notices' is his newest studio recording, and he's just released a 2-cd live set. He'll be touring the US this fall with James Keelaghan, a much-admired Canadian singer-songwriter."

I'm Hooked

The Orange Duke | Cupertino, Ca United States | 02/23/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Another excellent album from a premier modern folk troubadour. Jez Lowe specializes in lilting folk music and thoughtful introspective lyrics, often based on the trials of the downtrodden. Check out the excellent `Aloysius', a strangely affecting ode to a dog (who complains of the poor treatment of his breed and warns that this cannot go on forever). Highly touted by similarly minded folkie Richard Thompson, Lowe will also appeal to fans of The Proclaimers, Nick Lowe and Lyle Lovett. All the tracks are top notch, but pay special attention to `Sons Of The Century', `The Guilts' and `Workhouse'. `Alibi Child' (which is also excellent) features a superb guest vocalist. No fan of Celtic music could resist such a stellar offering."