Daniel Lanois

[Pangaea]

I didnt see any mention of Lanois' new album "Here Is What Is." An absolutely gorgeous album, which also happens to be very nicely recorded. It is a Soundtrack of sorts and covers a few genres but its mostly acoustic based soul/ rock. If you have only experienced him as a producer for Talking Heads, or U2 I think you'll be pretty surprised by his own work.

All his stuff is worth checking out but so far I think this ranks among his best.

 

[Bryan T]

I bought it a few days ago. Personally, I don't think it is one of his stronger albums. A few of the tracks are great, but on the whole it doesn't compare to "Acade," "Wynona," "Shine," or the "Slingblade" soundtrack. Definitely worth checking it for the strong points, but there are several weak songs.

I think what I don't like is his vocal phrasing on some of the tunes. It sounds too forced/rushed. The guitar and pedal steel is great.

Bryan