Newman, A. C. – “Slow Wonder, the ” – [Matador Records]

mitch   6/24/2006   12-inch, A Library

First solo outing from Carl Newman (ZUMPANO, NEW
PORNOGRAPHERS, SUPERCONDUCTOR) delivers the
goods in conclusive fashion. Soaring epics [‘Secretarial?],
gorgeous ballads [‘Cloud Prayer?], whistling/melodian
exercises [‘Drink to Me, Babe?- nice slide work], ragtime
piano/cello [‘On the Table? – justice as ‘the deal between
the thieves and exits?], and assorted relational discourses
and quirky storylines [‘Miracle Drug?’.’He was tied to the
bed with a miracle drug in one hand / In the other, a great
lost novel that, I understand, was returned with a stamp /
That said ‘thank you for your interest, young man?.’
Great songcraft, layered & pristine production by John
Collins, David Carswell, and Newman keep it organic and
focused on topicalities (small-town saviors, secret agents)
and philosophical dilemmas (guilt, innocence, and glorious
defeat) and textured, open arrangements. High quality.

MITCH Sept 2005