I'm not copping out when I say Richard Thompson's Mock Tudor has
it all. There can't be an animal, vegetable or mineral on
this planet that won't find something to like in the
bounce, doubt, scrawl, screech and loveliness of this record. Replete with melodic moans
of a past that is vividly present, Thompson takes you on an unforgettable
tour of subsuburban London, but this is a rock-and-roll train ride to Anytown, Anycountry - you can find your own place in the groove.
Thompson weaves conversational lyrics around lively,
wholesome and completely unpretentious melodies backed by thumping and aware
rhythms, while adding countless brilliantly timed flourishes. "Crawl Back
Under My Stone" features a tongue-lashing vocal -- it's a confession, but the bends and turns in the music
complicate the scene. He's not just acknowledging a bad influence, he's scoffing
at it and revelling in his freedom. The organ rolls and guitar
embellishments tell of a rich life being led elsewhere. "You won't have to
stand next to me / You won't have to introduce me / You won't have think
about, talk about, care about / You won't have to ask about, fuss about,
discuss about / You won't have to mind about, sweat about, forget about
me."
Of course there are those looking to Richard Thompson for
ripping guitar. Not to worry, there is plenty of athleticism here.
And the best way to find it? Turn this thing up loud! Mock Tudor is one of
those rare recordings you'll start out playing at invasive levels, and
slowly creep it up to near obscenity. "Hard on Me" has
enough guitar wankery to satisfy the hungriest of customers. "Hope You Like
the New Me" has enough gloom to darken the sun. The recording is lush and
crisp and rich with just the right dash of rawness. The short review? I
like it a whole lot.
If you like Richard Thompson, check out:
Shirley Collins and Davy Graham Folk Roots, New Routes
Dave Swarbrick Rags, Reels & Airs
Fairport Convention Full House
Sandy Denny Gold Dust - Live At The Royalty
Bruce Springsteen Born to Run
Bob Dylan Time Out of Mind
-- Aaron Goldweber
