Emmylou Harris

Wrecking Ball

Emmylou Harris' Greatest Masterpiece!

Review Score:

(10/10)
WRECKING BALL has been named as the greatest album ever between an artist and/or producer. Which isn't an exaggeration-every word is true. Emmylou Harris is one of the most extraordinary talents in music history, and has recorded several classics in the 20 years between her incredible debut PIECES OF THE SKY, and this glorious masterpiece. On first listen, however, WRECKING BALL comes as quite a surprise. This is the second copy of WRECKING BALL I've owned. I first purchased the album, a couple weeks after its release. For those like myself expecting something along the lines of ELITE HOTEL or BLUEBIRD, WRECKING BALL was a shock, and a big one. Two years ago, I bought it again, just to see if I saw the album differently. Listening with an open mind delivers great rewards. This is perhaps the best album in my CD collection (which includes PET SOUNDS (The Beach Boys), REVOLVER (The Beatles), THE BALLAD OF SALLY ROSE (Emmylou Harris)). There are only two albums in Harris catalog that could be seen as predecessors, but they're not too close. The first is EVANGELINE (1981), which had unique arrangements highlighting interesting material, including two Rodney Crowell songs ("I Don't Have To Crawl" and "Ashes By Now"), a duet with Waylon Jennings "Spanish Johnny", James Taylor's "Millworker", and a drastically different, but highly enjoyable version of "Evangeline" (featuring Linda Ronstadt and Dolly Parton as opposed to the Band). The other is COWGIRL'S PRAYER (1993), a very distinctive release, again with impeccable arrangements and exquisite song choices ("Prayer In Open D", "Thanks To You", "A Ways To Go"). But nothing in any genre, by any performer can prepare you for this remarkable experience of this album. WRECKING BALL matched all the magic, and elements that have been in Harris' music since the beginning and created a remarkable release. Daniel Lanois' production creates the perfect atmosphere for Harris' gorgeous voice. WRECKING BALL also features one of her strongest sets of songs. The result is the best record of the decade-from start to finish. Lanois' original "Where Will I Be" opens the album; it should become a Harris classic. Words can't describe how terrific this song sounds. Steve Earle's "Goodbye", is a beautiful song, about the pain of no resolve; Lanois' production is radiant, and highlights the emotion in the song, not to mention Harris' magnificent singing. "All My Tears" is amazing. The atmospherics contribute a new dimension to an already vivid song, which also benefits from Harris' exceptional singing. The title track, written by Neil Young, is a gorgeous song, with a glistening quality, from Harris' legendary vocals and Lanois' remarkable production. "Goin' Back To Harlan" is fascinating-with striking allusions built onto flawless songwriting, expertly delivered-one of the best performances of the decade. "Deeper Well" is the most radical departure-on an album built on that idea. An aggressive backing track perfectly matches Harris' vocal performance-which are fascinating beyond description. Harris and Lanois deserve medals for their terrific work on Bob Dylan's "Every Grain Of Sand". Harris works wonders on this track. I'd love to hear her interpret more of Dylan's songs; she does it extremely well. She's also fascinating on Lucinda Williams' "Sweet Old World"; this version could be the definitive. Jimi Hendrix's "May This Be Love" is stunning-Harris' exhilarating vocal matched with an electrifying backing of electric guitar and drums. Harris works magic on Gillian Welch's "Orphan Girl". Lanois' "Blackhawk" is another brilliant recording. The album ends with a marvelous Harris collaboration with Rodney Crowell (a member of Harris' first backing band); "Waltz Across Texas Tonight" is beautiful, the perfect closing song to this remarkable masterpiece. WRECKING BALL utilizes the talents of a small group of exceptional musicians: Daniel Lanois, Malcolm Burn, Daryl Johnson, Brain Blade, Larry Mullen Jr., Tony Hall, Richard Bennett, Sam O'Sullivan, and Kufaro Mouton. Not to mention some ultra-talented guests like Neil Young, Lucinda Williams, Steve Earle, Anna McGarrigle, and Kate McGarrigle. Several instruments appear for the first time on an Emmylou Harris record. WRECKING BALL is an extraordinary masterpiece-easily the best record of the decade. Give this album a listen-with an open mind-and prepare to be impressed. Emmylou Harris has constantly proven herself to be one of the most talented artists in music-this album makes it permanent.

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