Big Shoulders
Nickel History (Rounder) (STAR)(STAR)(STAR)
Probably no Chicago-based group paints with a fuller palette of American roots musical styles than Big Shoulders. And sometimes that`s their curse, as their seemingly random stylistic leaps from song to song can be confusing. But if you have an open mind and a set of big ears-figuratively speaking-the group`s eclecticism on its second album will charm you. The band`s secret weapon is guitarist Larry Clyman.
On his cinematic opening instrumental, ”At the Tracks,” his rockabilly guitar seamlessly blends with harmonica ace Ron Sorin`s lonesome train whistle moaning. Keyboardist-accordionist-vocalist Ken Saydak`s wistful ”America, Meet Me Tonight” spotlights his fine gospel piano work, but it also points out the group`s one weakness: Saydak`s somewhat one-dimensional vocals. But how can you not like a guy who writes an affectionate paean to bungalow-belt life called ”The Sout`West Side Polka”?
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