The last John Mellencamp album—2022’s “Strictly a One-eyed Jack”, was his first release in five years, It didn’t sell well in the States, which may partly explain why he’s back so soon with a follow-up. “Orpheus Descending“, this will be his 25th studio LP, finds Mellencamp addressing political themes, like gun control in “Hey God” and homelessness in “The Eyes of Portland,” as well as personal struggles, such as in “The So-Called Free,” which might be about his failed romance with actress Meg Ryan. Bruce Springsteen, perform’s on three tracks on the last album, But he isn’t on here, but he contributes the wistful “Perfect World,” the LP’s only cover track
His vocals are more gravelly than ever on “Orpheus Descending” Mellencamp hardly sounds like the same singer who belted out hits like “Jack and Diane” and “Pink Houses” in the 1980s, which is no surprise, given that he’s been smoking like a chimney for more than half a century. Still, his vocals can be effective, especially on tracks like “Lightning and Luck,” where they’re backed by the sweet violin of Lisa Germano, who played on stand outs albums like 1987’s “The Lonesome Jubilee” and returns to the fold here after a quarter-century.
Compared with albums like that one, this new record, is relatively dark and downbeat; don’t expect any exuberant and instantly lovable toe-tappers like “Paper in Fire” or “Cherry Bomb.” That said, “Orpheus Descending” sounds heartfelt and contains more than a few understated numbers that will reward repeated listens.
released on June 16, 2023.
The Fat Angel Sings 