David Berman‘s voice can be a bitter pill for some, but his lyrics make these songs worth the listen. Lookout Mountain, Lookout Sea is the sixth full length from Berman and company. The Jews lineup has had a rotating cast of musicians since its first release in 1989. Berman is joined by his wife Cassie and his touring band for this release.
As in the past, David Berman’s lyrics are the standout, with the music taking a backseat along the ride through Berman’s world of characters with witty sarcasm and deadpan humor. On the track “My Pillow is the Threshold” Berman wields his sword tongue with “unplug all the neon | Turn the ringer off the phone | Throw my thoughts like tomahawks | Into this world which I disown.”
Lookout does not stray far from the country twang-infused indie rock that the Silver Jews are known for, which may disappoint fans looking to hear something new here. Berman’s talk/speak vocal style works only for some tracks and may lead you to skip forward on your iPod. Berman’s ability to unleash one-liners that hit you in the gut along side dreamlike vignettes are what keep the album from coming apart. However, it ultimately glides you to a rocky landing with the finishing track “We Could Be Looking for the Same Thing.”
Overall, Lookout is good but not great when compared to previous releases such as the 1998′s iconic American Water, and even 2005′s Tanglewood Numbers. However, Berman has compiled a parcel of well written songs, the best of which is the aforementioned “My Pillow is the Threshold,” as well as the Johnny Cash-esque prison blues of “Candy Jail.” Berman is stoic in his refusal to do anything different than he pleases. Lookout is a brilliant example of this mindset and gets better with each listen but feels too comfortable when you know David Berman’s impudent capability.
RECORD REVIEW
Artist: Silver Jews
Album: Lookout Mountain, Lookout Sea
Release Date: June 17, 2008
Record Label: Drag City
