Following up to their critically-praised debut Ways Not to Lose, The Wood Brothers (vocalist/guitarist Oliver and bassist Chris) are back with their rootsy blend of Americana, Blues, and Folk on Loaded. Again enlisting longtime friend and artistic collaborator John Medeski as producer (who gets behind the keys on a few tracks as well), The Wood Brothers create an expansive exploration of their music, eschewing the more spare, acoustic, in-studio setting of their debut album for a more collaborative approach with other musicians and friends, resulting in a fleshed-out, multi-layered band effort. Blue Note. 2008.
F**X
A More Ambitious Effort Than The Last, But Equally Great
The first time I saw the Wood Brothers live, it was in Cherry Hill, NJ in the park. I was hooked on these guys right then and there and have been a fan of everything they've done, including the older brother's work with Martin and Medeski. With "Loaded," they have kept up their good work. They just refuse to disappoint.Excellent work on this piece, especially on standouts like "Postcards From Hell," "Lovin' Arms" and "Make Me Down A Pallet On Your Floor." It was also refreshing to hear Amos Lee make a short appearance on one of the tracks. But the thing that interested me the most was Chris Woods' solo performance on "Don't Look Back." I've never heard him sing before as his younger brother normally takes lead. It's a haunting, soulful piece that's not designed to impress or change your life. It's just a great song.Well done, guys. Looking forward to the next album already!TGG
4**H
Mesmerizing
I was introduced to these guys a couple years ago, heard some live stuff, some burned copies, etc. I fell in love with "that voice" which I now know is Oliver Wood. This CD is just amazing. It is like sitting on a porch with the brothers (and a few guests who've stopped by) and just grooving. I played it non-stop for the first two weeks, and now my husband and I take turns stealing it back from one another. Check out the samples- if you like the voice, buy it. If you like blues-y simplicity, buy it. If you want something to dance or head-bop to, keep looking. I am desperate for them to come near me so I can see them live!
M**D
Good Album - It's not the first album
Let me start by saying this album is good. It might be really good. But I came with the expectations of the first album, and it's just not that. This album is produced nicely - but maybe over-produced. The core strengths are still there - grainy, soulful, catchy, folk-with-a-twist - but I listened to it and wanted a little more. This album sounds like they're trying a little too hard - they didn't capture the raw beauty of the first album. Again, maybe that's ok, but it wins second place in my book. Get the album - you'll like it - but don't get this one instead of the first.
J**C
the same but not the same
The last Wood brothers was a gift. It is still getting play time. The stripped down sound and the songs were refreshing compared to much of what is released. The release after a group has some success always proves interesting and I'm glad to say this does not dissappoint. It is not as raw as the last release but they are stretching in interesting ways. The writing remains strong and the production is MORE but it doesn't seem to overpower the songs. I will listen and let it grow to get more familiar with it but first impression is very good.
P**G
Does not disappoint!
I can't really be unbiased because I pretty much love everything by The Wood Brothers and "Loaded" is no exception! Interesting musical arrangements, the usual great lyrics, a cool cover of Hendrix's "Angel", another great disc to add to my collection.
J**A
One of my Favorite Bands
Great CD from a great band. Not so well known, but great music. Should be played more on the radio so more people could discover how great they are.
J**N
Every album is good and this is no exception
You just can't go wrong w/ the Wood Brothers. Every album is good and this is no exception.
R**G
Another solid album
Seems like everything I get from these guys it's great. Another solid album.
Trustpilot
2 weeks ago
2 weeks ago