Leonard Cohen - Old Ideas

 

 

Artist: Leonard Cohen

Album: Old Ideas

Label: Columbia

Release date: 31st January 2012

Rating: 4.5 / 5

 

    Speaking to himself in the first cut made me chuckle a bit; "I love to speak with Leonard/He's a sportsman and a shepherd/he's a lazy bastard/in a suit"  A frail cut with not much life beyond that lyric, stripped to the bone musically, however, haunting backing vocals make every second worth it.  Almost like Tom Waits on quaaludes, (my description for new listeners to Mr. Cohen), the second track burrows its way into my brain.  Accompanied by those same haunting voices, an archilaud, a violin and a cornet, his lyrics dance and turn into my brain- a slave to his tongue twisting. "Amen" is a great tune, really capturing his songwriting and arrangements.  At 78 years young and perhaps one of the greatest songwriters the past five decades have seen, he certainly doesn't disappoint.  His usual topics of love and loss and lust and rage and betrayal and depression are ever present.  With assistance from many talented musicians, these songs are just more and more fun with each listen.  This is a great album for those who have loved Leonard in the past and for new listeners looking for impeccably written songs.  A lot of people look for new artists, new styles and new things to emulate, copy or harness, but sometimes, all you need is a few fantastic old ideas.