Monday, June 13, 2011

Jim Carroll Band- I Write Your Name

Jim Carroll is a multi-talented cat. The poet turned author decided to take the next logical step; punk band vocalist/lyricist. Its no wonder that Carroll's prose was so easily transposed into lyrics.
"I write your name" was the bands 3rd (and last) album and the most exuberantly produced, not to say that's a bad thing. This album leans more on the New-Wave genre than the bands previous raw punk offerings, with the exception of a couple of the later album tracks.
"Voices" is the albums stand out track, its a lightning speed, frantic insight into the world of several people with degenerative schizophrenia. Its sadly the bands first and last flirt with synthesizer rock, sad in the respect that it sounds so fucking good. "Sweet Jane" is a knock-out (not to mention faithful) cover of The Velvet Underground, its a great 80's revamp of the classic. Carroll's singing voice was pretty much on the mark as he is practically a dead ringer (vocally) with Lou Reed. "Freddy's Store" is simply straight-laced-no-fucking-around rock n roll.
Unfortunately Jim Carroll's musical career has come and gone largely unnoticed. The Jim Carroll Band is another under appreciated band that should be celebrated. I recommend this to everyone who has ears.

Also, here is the band playing a bare essentials version of "voices". RIP Jim Carroll.

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