[rating=9.00]
Ryan Adams is something of a deity to many fans who’ve been following him from the start. And even those fans that may have fallen by the wayside over the years probably still count his 2000 debut solo album Heartbreaker as one of their top ten favorite records of all time. He’s probably tired of hearing it, but man, that’s a fantastic record, and it’s never been lost on anyone who loves him that he’s more than capable of making new music on that level. His new album, simply titled Ryan Adams, is pretty damn close, and it’s proof that he’s truly returning to form.
That’s not to take away from any of his other work, but it’s no secret that Adams is at his best when crafting smoky, heart-wrenching rock and roll that’s gritty, raw and totally genuine. And the new record is just that; rebellious, beautiful and totally catchy.
Early buzz for single “My Wrecking Ball” came after Newport Folk Festival this year. It was the first taste of his new music, and it was damn good. It’s one of those songs, like “Come Pick Me Up”, that pulls on your heartstrings and nearly brings tears to your eyes, all while you gently head-bang to its infectious melody. It’s a human story of love and loss and the pain that comes with someone being just out of reach. And it’s impossible not to listen to it on repeat for hours. “All the walls we build/they must come down”, he sings, and we feel it especially as Adams seems to be letting us in again.
Adams delves into soulful power rock with “Stay with Me”, a throwback tune that harkens back to classic rock of the late seventies. It oozes sex through smooth, honeyed harmonies with just enough dirt. “Kim” and “I Just Might” are also completely sexy and slightly dark offerings, daring, breathless and urgent. “I Just Might” results in the kind of butt shaking only Adams can incite, and, like “Kim”, it’s borderline cheesy 80s power ballad, but Adams pulls it off with his signature brand of effortless cool. To put it plainly, he’s still got it.
There are so many beauties on this album and each song feels memorable and special. These are songs that can easily stand alone, and they’re all poised for heavy rotation like a great Adams song should be. “Tired of Giving Up” is a standout for its gorgeous layered guitar melodies. “Tired of giving up so easy/tired of giving up at all” he repeats through it all, and again, we’re nodding along with him, craving more of that irresistible angst he does so well. “Let Go” follows suit, and makes for the perfect last song with its simple guitar, piano, and soft focus on Adams’ sultry singing.
Ryan Adams reminds us that Adams voice is one we’ve missed and should continue to treasure and hold in the high regard it so deserves. There’s a reason we’ve stuck with him throughout his career, and it feels like he’s here to stay this time. Along with 2011’s beautiful Ashes and Fire, this self-titled record continues to prove that Adams is getting back to basics and embracing what we’ve all loved about him forever.
