Chez

^^^ I kind of have a different opinion.  For all the reasons I love Star Wars (e.g. it represents a brave departure from the arc Wilco was following),  I'm a bit disappointed in the new Isbell record.  I think it sounds like Southeastern Part 2.   Great songs, but nothing that really grabs me or gets me excited.  After three listens, I find it a tad boring -- and this from a guy who loves DBT and the songs Jason contributed while he was in the band.  I've enjoyed all of Jason's solo albums, but perhaps success (critical and popular) has made Isbell unwilling to push the borders of the sweet spot he's found. 

The last installment of the trilogy. Loved the first two.

Are you suggesting that no one is Better Than Ezra? 

It normally takes me at least three listens to any album for me to get warmed up to it.  But after only two, I LOVE this new album..  It's almost like Nels threatened to quit the band if they didn't make an album like this.  And were Mikael and Pat locked out of the studio?

^^^ That "awful lounge act witch?"  It's all make-up.  Her name is Lera Lynn and if you ever see her in person (I caught her act at The American Music Festival from about 10 feet away), you would be shocked.  In real life she is stunning -- drop dead beautiful.  So much so that my wife wouldn't allow me to take her picture.  Oh, and she is a talented singer and songwriter too!

Long drive to Indianapolis and back today!

^^^ Deano said at the end of the show that they are playing "somewhere" on August 19.

^^^ Wow.  Should be great.  Have fun.  I caught Johnny's other band, The Waco Brothers, last week at Fitzgerald's.  Great show.

^^^ The Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago had an incredible Bowie installation at the end of last year.  Stunning both visually and aurally. 

Well written, excellent piece.  Thanks for posting.  I couldn't get "Ronnie and Neal" out of my head while reading it! 

^^^ How do you like the new Tame Impala?  I loved Lonerism.