Search - Joe Williams :: Joe Williams

Finally! the portable Joe Williams!

04/26/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This smart, funny, sweet, goofy, talented NC singer-songwriter has finally released his long-awaited CD. Fans of his live show will be delighted to know it's got the Pretzel Song, [Me and] The Waltz, and his classic "The Lone Cow of Pittsburgh." Songs range from sublimely silly to simple and perfect. The producing is clean and understated, so you get his nice syncopated arrangements and the vocals that sneak right into your heart. Buy one for yourself and one for everyone you love."

Silly and sweet, with cosmic significance

P. Busch | Philadelphia, USA | 05/05/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"What makes Joe's songs so wonderful? They are gentle and heartwarming but never cheesy. They are witty, at times hilarious, but filled with humane insight, not hollow irony.In "Three Squirrels," for example, cute furry creatures find themselves locked in an existential struggle to cross the road. "Me and the Waltz," truly a beautiful song, will move anyone who has felt that his soul has two left feet. "The Lone Cow of Pittsburgh" is Joe's version of tragic heroism. And in "Daddy's Recliner," a child reenacts the Fall of Man when he leans back on the Forbidden Furniture.To those who already know and love Joe's music: you won't be disappointed. To those who don't: what are you waiting for?"

A refreshing assortment of songs

P. Busch | 05/02/2002

(4 out of 5 stars)

"The one word I would choose to describe this project is "diverse." The album moves from song to song, in and out of ridiculous and insightful lyrics, energetic beats and mesmerizing melodies. One moment you're listening to a song like "Three Squirrels," which describes the way that three indecisive squirrels end up meeting their doom on a country road, and just a few minutes later you're listening to "Nice and Slow," a pensive, melodic tune about landing in an airplane and finding solid ground.The longest cut on the disc is only 3 minutes and 37 seconds long; with thirteen tracks, it's not a long album, but it's a fun-filled 32 minutes that shouldn't be missed. Many of the songs on this album are little more than an acoustic guitar, some drums, and Williams' light and slightly throaty voice. This simplicity creates a relaxed feel, but the songs still make you move and the rhythmic guitar will keep you tapping your feet and bobbing your head. This is perfect summer music right here: easy going, different, fun, and wholly smile-inducing."