The Creek Drank the Cradle

Grade:

B

Saying this CD is mellow is like saying Al Gore is a sore loser ÷ a huge understatement. Maybe this CD would appeal to Mr. Gore, because it is about loss and heartbreak.

Apparently, Iron & Wine is really a one-piece from Miami, which begs the question of why Samuel Beam included two names as his title? Is he iron or wine? Seems more like wine on this disc. Maybe he'll make a heavy metal LP and show us the iron side later. For now, it is wine and it is seasoned.

Sound Sample

Iron and Wine - Southern Anthem

Official Site

Official Site

Beam's vocals sound detached and fuzzy compared to the clear acoustic guitar/banjo work, but the lyrics are comprehensible and poignant. At times, the sound can be compared to an acoustic Lou Barlow/Ben Harper/Gomez jam if all were condensed into one man. There are also some bluegrass influences like on "The Rooster Moans."

This is not a risk-taking record. No rules of music mechanics are being tested or broken here, it's just straight-up man and his guitar. The fact that all 11 songs can keep you listening and entertained is a testament to just how hard it is to pull off. Appreciate this album after a long night at the bars when you are either: a) trying to fall asleep; or b) trying to get someone to eventually fall asleep with you.