THAT mouthful of a title covers both a live double album, out now, and an accompanying DVD, to be shown at the London Film Festival for release later.
Calling himself Just An American Boy may be an ironic gesture, certainly provocative, from the growling Texan whose humane, sympathetic song about an American Taliban, John Walker's Blues, has made him public enemy number one in Bush's backyard.
Earle, troubled and troublesome troubadour, and malcontent campaigner against the death penalty and landmines, will brush aside the flak, content that his version of patriotism differs from that of his accusers. He opens this serious, searing "audio documentary", drawn from North American dates with The Dukes and The Bluegrass Dukes, with a quartet of songs from last year's controversial Jerusalem album (John Walker's Blues, without any Earle commentary, comes later).
Old Earle pearls are largely absent (Copperhead Road, Guitar Town and Billy Austin aside) as this heavyweight comment-ator addresses American social and moral issues with more impact than latterday Dylan and Springsteen, while celebrating the musical past of bluegrass and Townes Van Zandt. His sermons and stories wouldn't be out of place on the political comedy circuit. Vote Earle, not Bush.
Updated: 16:32 Wednesday, October 01, 2003
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article