Craig Finn - We All Want The Same Things
Sometimes you have to take a gamble on something - this was one of those times, and it’s also one of the times it paid off. Opening up the album with a Springsteen-esque track named Jester & June sets the tone for what follows really well.
There are a number of genres covered on this album too, and it refuses to be placed in a single category. Challenging the stereotypes is always a good thing, well when it’s done for the right reasons at least.
Craig’s voice sounds like it’s been fed on a diet of whiskey and cigarettes. It’s gravelly, but has a rich tone and a nice amount of bass to it, and it fits the style of the music perfectly. From the honky-tonk Ninety Bucks to God in Chicago and the piano & brass laden 12 bar rock/blues that is Tracking Shots this album is a journey through Craig’s world, with twists and turns a-plenty to keep you guessing.
The highest praise I could heap on this is that it reminds so much of Springsteen in the E Street days, with big songs and the right amount of sleeze, and attitude. If you loved early Bruce, you’re going to lap this up.
9/10
