A GREAT PICK AS AN INTRODUCTION, OR FOR AN ESTABLISHED FAN
Larry L. Looney | Austin, Texas USA | 06/30/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This 2-disc set from the great English singer-songwriter Jez Lowe is a superb collection of some of his finest songs -- there are classics from his entensive catalogue here, as well as some newer selections. The incarnation of the Bad Penneys that accompany him here make for a fine band, ably backing him, doing grand justice to all of the tunes. The recording is excellent as well -- the music and vocals are clear, and the 'live' atmosphere is present but not overbearing, a tricky balance in concert recordings. Additionally, there's a wealth of extra material available on one of the discs by way of the CD-ROM drive on your compuuter -- lots of photos, lyrics, and other information to keep you busy.Lowe is one of the finest songwriters to emerge from the UK in our time -- it's a pity (and a genuine surprise) that he's not more widely known. If you've never experienced his work, this is a fine place to start -- and trust me, you'll want to explore further. Beyond this recording, I can heartily recommend TENTERHOOKS, as well as BEDE WEEPS -- but everything he's done is of the highest quality."
My favorite CD for the last 2 years and so unexpected!
musicandmysteries | Clifton, NJ | 04/10/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I loved this CD - Saw Jez Lowe live 2 yrs ago and liked his lyrics, delivery, humor. Bought the Live at the Davy Lamp CD and discovered the Bad Pennies. Just a fantastic combination. They are more than a back up bank-- and add a great deal of warmth and vibrancy. This 2 CD set became my favorite instantly. Lovely clear, crisp voices. The songs are often 20th century topics with traditional roots to the instrumentation. Many earworms...They are often running thru my head. A nice combination ballads and uptempo to the cuts on these CDs. Brought them into work and they were a hit with my co-workers. If you are a traditional folkie I'm sure you will enjoy this disc. And my non-traditional folk music friends have enjoyed it also. It's still my favorite. Only problem has been bursting out singing along full volume when the earphones are plugged in."