Steve Earle has worn many hats over the years—guitar genius, political agitator, heroin addict and radio host, just to name a few. But none of those hats were ever of the 10-gallon variety, which has made his act a tough sell in Nashville. Not to worry, however: Earle’s recent move to New York City has inspired a folk-rock smash-up that wakes the echoes of Guthrie, Seeger, Dylan and the other troubadours who’ve called Greenwich Village home.
Fans of Earle’s previous two efforts might be disappointed in the subject matter on WSS; after the thorough Bush-regime-bashing of Jerusalem and The Revolution Starts ... Now, “City of Immigrants” is the only overtly political song among the 12 cuts (though he does include a special shout-out to Lou Dobbs in the liner notes). Earle married singer-songwriter Allison Moorer in 2005, and her presence is felt on a handful of sentimental, almost romantic cuts, including the gorgeous duet “Days Aren’t Long Enough.”
Earle’s cynical edge and wry observations shine through on the talking blues of “Down Here Below,” the haunting Celtic tinge of “Oxycontin Blues” and a funky remake of Tom Waits’ “Way Down in the Hole.” It’s a bit disorienting witnessing Earle leaving Guitar Town behind, but his new digs seem to suit him just fine.
STEVE EARLE
Washington Square Serenade
*** 1/2