Ryan Adams

Editor's Review:

Initially lost in the onslaught of talented singer/songwriters who surfaced in 2001, Ryan Adams has emerged as the sole dignitary of the true rock ‘n’ roll revival. This being the first in a series of four albums, one might begin to question whether or not prolificacy could spell redundancy. In the case of Rock N Roll, the answer is a resounding “No!” as Adams trades in his affinity for brooding alt-country ballads for a full-on acceptance of his punk rock and new wave roots.
The U2-like ambiance of “So Alive” eclipses the disheveled attack of most of the songs that encompass the disc while Adams stresses “I am on your side” repeatedly. Small traces of Adams’ unrivaled country-rock riffage and unparalleled lyrical delivery, as heard on 2000’s brilliant Heartbreaker, permeate the album, but only enough to show that he hasn’t completely distanced himself from that school of songwriting. In fact, there are instances where feedback and power chords are intertwined so seamlessly with traditional rhythm and blues riffs that tunes like “Shallow” represent a pristine marriage between the two genres. Adams’ girlfriend, actress Parker Posey, provides backup vocals on a few tracks, and appearances by Billie Joe Armstrong (Green Day) and Melissa Auf Der Maur (Hole) strengthen his rock credentials exponentially. There are so many good songs on this release that it’s hard to believe that three more albums are even necessary for Adams. “Note To Self: Don’t Die” emerges as the most scathing song that Adams has ever recorded.
– Ryan Prado
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Record Label Lost Highway Records Released December 2003

Tracks This Is It Shallow 1974 Wish You Were Here So Alive Luminol Burning Photographs She’s Lost Total Control Note To Self: Don’t Die Rock N Roll Anybody Wanna Take Me Home Do Miss America Boys The Drugs Not Working