How many of us can claim 50 years in the music business, to have sold 58 million albums, or even to have released 35 studio albums, as well as various live albums and compilations? While the majority of Bob Dylan's '60s peers have fallen by the wayside as their music became irrelevant, their physical and mental health failed them, or others simply took their place in the mainstream, we can be thankful that the same cannot be said for Dylan. His latest album, 'Tempest', was released on the 10th of September this year, just over 50 years since his eponymous debut.
All songs are written exclusively by Dylan, bar the opening track and lead single 'Duquesne Whistle', which he co-wrote with Robert Hunter (of Grateful Dead fame). 'Tempest' shows that Dylan is still on top of his game, matching quirky tunes like 'Duquesne Whistle' with nostalgia, such as 'Roll On John', and ballads, namely the album's title track, a fourteen minute epic, where Dylan tells the story of the sinking of the Titanic.
Bob Dylan's music will always be characterised by his deep, gritty vocals, and these are at their best, or worst, on 'Tempest', depending on your point of view. Dylan sounds aged and ravaged by time, which, at 71, he has every right to. Songs like 'It's Alright Ma (I'm Only Bleeding)' and 'Gates of Eden' would never have been the same with out his signature rawness. Whether you love it or hate it, Dylan's is truly one of the most distinctive voices in music.
'Soon After Midnight', the albums second track, follows the western feel of 'Duquesne Whistle', with a sweet electric guitar intro, joined by a full band, which Dylan almost croons over. 'Narrow Way' is upbeat, distinguished by a repeated electric guitar riff. By now, 'Tempest' is firmly categorised as a country album in the listener's mind. The album then takes a dynamic downturn at 'Long and Wasted Years', which lasts until 'Early Roman Kings', a blues-shuffle reminiscent of Bo Diddley or Muddy Waters. Album closer 'Roll On John' is Dylan's tribute to John Lennon, the legendary front-man of the Beatles. Reminiscent and beautiful, this is my favourite song on the album. Definitely one to check out.
Dylan has already cemented himself as one of the greatest song-writers of all time in many people's minds. I give this album 8/10, as I feel it stands alongside classics such as 'Blonde on Blonde' and 'Bringing It All Back Home'. Dylan is still on top form, and we have to hope that this is not the last great album we will hear from him.
Check out- 'Soon After Midnight', 'Roll On John'
For fans of- Neil Young, Leonard Cohen
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