The highly anticipated follow-up to his critically acclaimed “Finding You Again” proves once more that time has not diminished Bob Lind’s brilliance.
“Magellan Was Wrong” is a testament to Bob Lind’s evolution – his fearlessness to move into new musical forms without ever losing the unique “voice” and style that has always characterised his work. 50 years after ‘Elusive Butterfly’, he continues to hone and reshape his artistry. From the cry-from-the-guts opener ‘I Don’t Know How To Love You’ to the symphonic closing piece ‘A Break In The Rain’ (built on an a-rhythmic classical motif, unlike anything else written or recorded by Lind), these songs demonstrate astonishing melodic variation.
Within these contrasting bookends are the jazz-flavoured cautionary tale ‘Never Even There’, the heartbreaking ‘Outsider’s Dream’, the touching declaration of love ‘I Turn To You’, the shameless cry for forgiveness ‘My Friend’, the rollicking paean to new romance ‘You, Lola, You!’, and other equally varied, daringly honest anthems to the joy and pain of living life with eyes open – without hedging the truth.
Four producers grace this album: the inimitable Jamie Hoover,Miamiwild man Frank “Rat” Falestra, jazz master Greg Foat and Lind himself – each taking on the songs best-suited to his skills. Every song is different, but each one bears the unmistakable Lind stamp. There’s even a rare cover included, revealing Lind’s musical roots: a surprising take on the folk song ‘Bottle Of Wine’ that shows the Tom Paxton classic in a brand-new light.
Yes. Lind’s lyrics are as romantic and imaginative as those of any songwriter alive. But unlike the work of many of his troubadour-poet contemporaries, his work is more than just literary and sharply constructed. It’s highly listenable. Delivered with that ageless voice – as strong and expressive as ever – this music reaches the heart every bit as much as it reaches the mind.
The booklet includes words of admiration from music icons from both sides of the Pond: British singer/songwriter Richard Hawley and Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Dion. They speak volumes about Lind’s powerful effect on people who know how to create musical magic.
Every song on “Magellan Was Wrong” makes you remember why you love Bob Lind’s music so much.
Judith Pearl
