Justin Townes Earle was a country singer-songwriter from Nashville, TN. Earle’s album ALL IN: Unreleased & Rarities (The New West Years) is a collection of songs that all together do not make for a cohesive record.
Although “Cold Comfort” is a sweet message about missing someone, it sounds like it was the very beginning of a song idea that could have used a lot of growth. “I just can not help but miss you / Just ’cause I haven’t learned to live without you, don’t mean I wasn’t happy you were gone / I will find a way to sleep at night.”
“Over Alabama (Album Version)” has high production value. There are dips and winds creating a beautiful picture of Earle’s childhood and struggles with family and location. Through his lyricism, such as the line “I’m 19 years old just yesterday,” he is demonstrating the pain of growing up and leaving a life behind.
“Appalachian Nightmare (Album Version)” sounds as if it should be the demo version, and the demo version that is on the album “Appalachian Nightmare (Demo)” is almost better, less chaotic.
There are two songs on this album that definitely stand out “Champagne Corolla (Live on SiriusXM)” and “So Different Blues (Live on SiriusXM)” that have been recorded at the SiriusXM studio and it makes a world of difference. “Champagne Corolla (Live on SiriusXM)” has layers in the production that contrast well with Earle’s voice. Even though there is not too much going on in this song, the subtleness is elevated by the dynamics of the rest of the album.
The majority of songs on this album sound like they could’ve used better, higher quality production to compliment the depth of Earle’s songwriting. It also lacks a strong theme throughout the album which could have connected the songs together more meaningfully.
Leave a Comment