Comments on: O’ Be Joyful (Deluxe Edition)

By: G. White

G. White — Mon, 30 Sep 2013 14:04:15 +0000

Shovels and Rope rock My wife and I saw Shovels and Rope last night (August 3, 2012) at the Mural Amphitheatre in Seattle. I'd purchased O' Be Joyful to get ready for the show. I loved this album instantly. And I almost never say that. However, as great as the album is, their live performance was even better. I see a lot of shows. But these two were at the top of my list.

By: Marko

Marko — Mon, 30 Sep 2013 13:35:44 +0000

Fantastic. See them live. Take a chance on this disc. You will enjoy it.These two have the art of entertainment down pat. They are upbeat, energetic, lively, and incredibly talented singers, songwriters, and instrumentalists. As well as a couple of super cool, down-to-earth, accessible people. The music is folk-rock, as many instruments as a two-(wo)man band can muster in a song. They write striking lyrics, funny lyrics, plain old folk stories. Lots of songs about outlaws. And who doesn't like a song about outlaws?

By: bbb919

bbb919 — Mon, 30 Sep 2013 13:07:32 +0000

mixed emotions I was introduced to Shovels & Rope at a music festival where they easily upstaged the headliner. Then I went online and watched some videos of other live performances they have done. Then I bought this album and barely recognized some of the tracks. This album is part of a growing trend where technology is ruining music. I am completely baffled by some of the production and editing decisions that were made on some of these tracks. These are two of the most honest, genuine and talented musicians I have come across in a long time and so much of that simple charm is lost in these recordings. Go to YouTube and watch their studio performance for KEXP. Anyone who says what is on this album is better than what they did live in that studio is completely out of their mind. Their KEXP performance of Hail Hail is amazing and was the highlight of that performance for me. However, the version of Hail Hail on the album is easily the low point and is almost painful to listen to. This is one of those bands where simplicity is they key. Why would you pollute this music with unnecessary effects and instrumentation? I just don't get it.Moral of the story, watch all of their live performances on YouTube and never miss an opportunity to see them live. As far as buying this album, I'd prefer a live version.