Bonnie ?Prince? Billy / Matt Sweeney “Superwolf” [Drag City]

After an extensive career and multiple pseudonyms (Palace, Palace Songs, Palace Brothers) singer / song writer, William Oldham, has finally solidified himself as Bonnie ‘Prince? Billy. On Superwolf, Bonnie enlists the aid of indie rock guitarist Matt Sweeney (Guided by Voices, Chavez, ZWAN). Together they craft minimal yet powerfully elucidating alternative country. Bonnie is most certainly a gifted poet, evincing raw emotion both through his lyrics and stylistically somber instrumentation. Superwolf credits Sweeney with most musical contributions, but I suspect that it is still Bonnie who predominantly shines through. This is an extremely beautiful example how accomplished and genuinely honest a musician Bonnie Prince Billy is. This album is wonderfully reflective, contemplative, heart-rending, and superb for those solitary sunset afternoons when you just want to get away from it all. Tr. 10 & 11 are highly recommended.