“The Freewheelin" Bob Dylan returns for his latest offering, Together Through Life, with a gripping record that perfectly melds blues and rock n’ roll fusion alongside very chilling and poignant vocals. There is a smattering of psychedelic rock influences evidenced by Dylan’s decision to hire his friend, Greatful Dead’s Robert Hunter, to assist in writing lyrics for the new LP. But classic rock aficionados should heed the following warning: This is not the epic Blood On The Tracks (1975) nor the modern classic Time Out of Mind (1997). This is not a record for Dylan purists; and it might become an acquired taste for even his most steadfast supporters.The opening track, Beyond Here Lies Nothin’, could provide us with some indication that Dylan has come to grips with his own mortality and love may be the final answer to escape years of pent up mental anguish. It is a definitive fast-paced blues number, which features impressive Eric-Claptonesque guitar rhythms and thunderous drums that might leave you in a transient musical state of hypnotic bliss. But it’s Dylan’s emotive harsh vocals that awaken us to his unnerving, strong sentiments, pervasive throughout the song. You’re the love I’ve ever known … just as long as you stay with me, the whole world lies our throne … down here lies nothin’, nothing we can call our own.
Forgetful Heart is Dylan’s take on alternative country that features a deeply troubled and reflective vocal along with a very effective combination of acoustic guitar, guitar distortion and the quintessential harmonica that leaves listeners with an ominous feeling something troublesome is about to unfold. Dylan pleads, Without you it’s so hard to take. Can’t take much more, why can’t love like we did before.
Dylan’s decision to incorporate stories of tarnished love into the album does not bode well for music lovers yearning for a slew of timeless love classics. But Dylan offers one dose of optimism for avid fans with the sunny folk-rock ballad, I Feel A Change Comin’ On. Well, Life is for love. And they say love is blind. If you want to live easy, baby pack your clothes with mine!Together Through... will not go down in the music almanacs as one of Dylan’s finest records to-date. But this is perfect “mood” music for those listeners hoping to unwind to a piece reflective melodious artwork while tackling life’s difficult challenges. This album will squash all rumors that “The Freewheelin” Bob has failed to age gracefully and with class. One of the legends of our time has created an astonishing up-tempo, blues-intensive LP, which will help us contemplate life’s roadblocks that sometimes stand in the way of love and true companionship.
Download Right Now: I Feel A Change Comin' On
Grade: B+
