do i hear a robbie? a levon? a richard manuel?

what's up with the latest "the band" bands? I absolutely love robbie and the gang, but after all these years of rolling stone heralding them as the greatest thing you've probably never heard, it seems odd at the proliferation of these guys. some are doing it extremely well (delta spirit, dr. dog), and some not so much (felice brothers). I guess my morning jacket has been doing it well for about ten years now (until "Evil Urges" that is), and dr. dog has been around for quit awhile now. let's hope they keep it up.

Jenny Lewis "Acid Tongue" Review

Sounds Likes: every 70's singer-songwriter (i mean that in the best way possible

Favorite Tracks: The Next Messiah, Acid Tongue

Ever since 2004's More Adventorous Jenny Lewis has proven to be one of the most consistent and prolific songwriter, even compared to such indie heavy-weights as James Mercer, Brit Daniels or even Conor Oberst. Her latest offering only furthers this statement.

Jenny Lewis has never been shy about her affection of early 70's singer songwriters. And in no previous album has she shown these influences so overtly. Linda Ronstadt, Neil Young, Randy Newman, Joni Mitchel . . . .the list goes on and on. However, what makes this more than just another tribute album is the raw energy. Just listen to The Next Messiah or Jack Killed Mom (which sounds like a b-side from Dolly Parton's Coat of Many Colors lp). It's as if she took the earthy formula from the excellent Rabbit Fur Coat and stepped it up a few notches.

I especially appreciate the coy sexuality that she imbues in many of her songs. It's beginning to become somewhat of a trademark, considering that most indie contemporaries (think Karen Oh, CSS, that chick from the Kills) are so obnoxious about their own.

Score: A