Reviewed by Ian Webber

Texas-based Chris Taylor has built up a cult following and on this set he has picked out his own list of influential tracks from the icon that is Bob Dylan. What Chris manages to do well is maintain a sense of the rough, gravely feel of classic Dylan whilst giving each a warm polished edge. With his silky vocals he glides through the delivery of these nine tracks effortlessly, at times bringing an edge of Mark Knopfler to the proceedings. The Academy Award winning "Things Have Changed" opens the list of classics and features a haunting guitar that is restrained and full of depth. "Man Of Peace" introduces a blues element to the recording as the rhythm and bass sections roll, creating a grimy undercurrent to a track that rumbles along. The most gospel orientated track in the collection is "Gotta Serve Somebody" which is underpinned by a prominent smooth bassline. Throughout the album there is an authentic acoustic feel that creates a spacious sound where the lack of sophisticated instrumentation enhances the energy and captivates the listener. I am aware that Dylan fans may approach a full set of cover tracks with trepidation but I would reassure the nervous that Chris has not tried to reinvent the originals, only present them afresh to a new generation of listeners. With crisp production and a classic edge I am sure this offering will win Chris Taylor a new set of fans as he sensitively paints a picture of a musical giant in nine hope-filled portraits.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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