CD REVIEW: Warren Zevon, “Self-Titled”
The re-release of Warren Zevon’s 1975 self-titled album in double-disc format delivers the original album as well as demos, alternate takes, and live renditions of all corresponding tracks. Showcasing a folk music style similar to friend and producer Jackson Browne, and working closely with musicians/vocalists Don Henley, Bonnie Raitt, Rosemary Butler, Stevie Nicks, David Lindley and Lindsey Buckingham, Zevon himself creates something outstandingly different due to true-to-life lyrical expressions, which for him tend to be rather macabre.
He surprisingly managed to avoid shock value, even as he sings about “sinking down, [being] strung-out on heroine on the outskirts of town” while begging for “Carmelita” to hold him tighter; or waiting for the train to come as he lays his head on the tracks – all to a tune that does not even remotely cater to such bleak circumstances. In the end, it proves to be a sign of pure ingenuity of word use, painting a picture both down-in-the-depths dark yet empathetic, therefore garnering a deep understanding from the listener.
Such a treat it is for our generation to have Zevon’s original album remastered and clearer than ever; however, the most endearing aspect of the album would be the demos and alternative takes – Zevon’s taming of the piano, letting go and simply enjoying himself. It feels like we’ve been let in on a secret jam session, concerning the various stages of production prior to what would even be considered the finished project, which stand alone just as richly on their own. That said, this reissue is likely to reaffirm within new and old Zevon/Browne enthusiasts alike that what is considered legendary doesn’t necessarily stand on pre-disposed emboldened legs – sometimes a little prodding and encouragement from comrades is what’s needed for something to be taken to the next level.
Recommended tracks: “The French Inhaler (Solo Piano Demo)”, “Backs Turned Looking Down the Path (Take 1)”, “I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead (Alternate Version)”, and “Mohammed’s Radio (Take 2)”.
Photo via rateyourmusic.com
