It must be difficult for a talented singer-songwriter
like Todd Snider. Since the release of his first album,
Songs for the Daily Planet,
in 1994, to his current release, people with half his talent
have sold twice as many albums than he has during the last
15 years and 13 albums.
Such is life in the world of music and Todd’s fans see
him for the treasure he is. His wit and his ability to tell
stories that everyone can relate to is rare. With
The Excitement Plan
he delivers a fine album — as good as any album he has ever
released. There may not be a definitive single, but that’s
not to say the songs are lacking. They are great. Hit Singles
are for young ears and tacit music fans. Albums like this
are for more judicious music fans.
Never afraid to take on tough political subjects, he
included a song about the war in Iraq. Like a true anti-war
protester, he sings “Bring ‘em Home” from his heart. He
offers two perspectives — soldier and the loved ones they
leave behind. He adds a really cool harmonica solo in the
chorus, which colors the song with authenticity. You feel
like you’re with him in a protest. Another standout track
is the Lyle Lovett-like “Unorganized Crime.” Stylistically,
it’s a sort of lazy jazz-country fusion, which is very relaxed
and befitting the lyrics. “Greencastle Blues” is the type
of song Todd is known for — thought-provoking and amusing.
The chorus has perhaps grown from some lessons he has learned:
“Some of this trouble just finds me/ Most of this trouble
I earn…How do you know when it’s too late?” Next he writes
an ode to regret and the hidden beauty that lies within
it with “Corpus Christi Bay.” The grace with which he tells
the tale is tremendous.
Has Todd Snider made better albums? Probably.
The Devil You Know
is his most critically praised album and a masterpiece.
This new release doesn’t rise quite to that level but few
albums do. What this album does have is personality. You
know what you’re getting from Todd and he delivers it with
all his heart, never taking himself too serious but still
trying to make a point. He is a treasure and I am a huge
fan. I hope that this album gets the recognition it deserves.
It’s pretty damn good.
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