Music review: 'Changing Horses' by Ben Kweller

Thursday, February 26, 2009

Ben Kweller takes a musical turn back to his roots in South Texas on his latest release, Changing Horses. Though Kweller’s earlier work features alternative rock similar to Ben Folds, Changing Horses is strongly influenced by Kweller’s country western heritage and is reminiscent of ’90s Wilco.

Fans of Kweller’s earlier music may be alarmed by the drastic difference in tone and genre. They can rest assured, however. The music on Changing Horses is a big change for Kweller, but is definitely not a bad one. Kweller’s soft spoken voice and rhythmic piano work are still spectacular, but are mixed with the twangy sounds of slide guitar and some country western lyrics.

The album’s only issue is its plethora of mellow songs. There are some great tunes on Changing Horses, but they are few in number and are accompanied by too many slow ballads.

The album’s opening track, “Gypsy Rose,” is excellent. The smooth acoustic guitar is layered nicely with Kweller’s laid back vocals and southern rhythm.

Tracks such as “Fight” and “Wantin’ Her Again” are fast-paced country jams filled with excellent steel pedal and slide guitar solos. Kweller’s vocal range is also impressive on both tracks.

Overall, the album is good, but it lacks the exciting piano build ups and rock ‘n’ roll that Kweller’s other music is best known for.

2.5 out of 4 stars

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