Dok (![[info]](http://l-stat.livejournal.com/img/userinfo.gif){kind=small} cyberinsekt) wrote,@ 2008-11-24 00:50:00 |
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Bert Jansch - Katie Cruel
Lifetime achievement awards are typically seen as the kiss of death for a creative career. It's our way of showing our respect and admiration for everything that's been done, and our resigned acceptance that there's nothing more of any worth on the way. Basically, we're cunts like that.
So, good for Bert Jansch, who after receiving just such an award, went on to release The Black Swan in 2006. Featuring both new works and covers, it's maybe a little on the patchy side, but when it works it really works. When he's had he mind to do so, Jansch has always been able to attract a high calibre of collaborator. On Katie Cruel he's joined by Beth Orton and Devendra Banhart, who take over vocal duties.
It's probably for the best. While Jansch's earthy, lilting voice has considerable appeal, it's probably not suited for this traditional song, sung here with aching regret and dangerous harmonies. There's considerable emotional depth to this performance. While it may seem contradictory to combine resignation and anger, when that anger is turned inwards it gives us a fine lesson in tragedy. A compelling song.
Bert Jansch - Katie Cruel
Lifetime achievement awards are typically seen as the kiss of death for a creative career. It's our way of showing our respect and admiration for everything that's been done, and our resigned acceptance that there's nothing more of any worth on the way. Basically, we're cunts like that.
So, good for Bert Jansch, who after receiving just such an award, went on to release The Black Swan in 2006. Featuring both new works and covers, it's maybe a little on the patchy side, but when it works it really works. When he's had he mind to do so, Jansch has always been able to attract a high calibre of collaborator. On Katie Cruel he's joined by Beth Orton and Devendra Banhart, who take over vocal duties.
It's probably for the best. While Jansch's earthy, lilting voice has considerable appeal, it's probably not suited for this traditional song, sung here with aching regret and dangerous harmonies. There's considerable emotional depth to this performance. While it may seem contradictory to combine resignation and anger, when that anger is turned inwards it gives us a fine lesson in tragedy. A compelling song.
Bert Jansch - Katie Cruel
