Sunday 31 July 2016

Highway Anxiety

Sore of face and fewer of teeth, the deed is done. The fear and dread that had, totally illogically, built up in my mind for over 30 years was dispelled with 20 short minutes of exemplary and professional oral surgery. Of course what I should have done following that one terrifying experience, way back in 1983, was immediately go out and find a new dentist - I'd never had a problem with any of the check-ups, fillings or extractions that I'd endured up to that point in my life. But I didn't. I let the memory fester and build to a ludicrous degree. Irrational anxiety has a lot to answer for.


And if that sounds like a cue for a song, you're dead right. A couple of weeks ago, I began jotting down a few of my favourite albums from the first half of 2016 and 'Modern Country' by William Tyler featured prominently on that list. Tyler's third release on Merge Records (there are further recordings dotted around on other labels) is a fabulous instrumental work that moves effortlessly from Philip Glass-like chiming on 'Gone Clear' to screaming feedback on 'The Great Unwind', via the acoustic fingerpicking of 'Kingdom of Jones'. It's an organic, embracing listen and comes highly recommended. The lovely 'Highway Anxiety' opens proceedings.

5 comments:

Walter said...

I have heard about the record but forgot to investigate. This song is lovely and if the rest is as well it should appear on many lists of 2016. Thank you for this recommendation, Swede

Walter said...

Got this record today Swede and I have to say so many thanks to you. Listening for a few hours to this music and it fits my little soul.Awesome.

The Swede said...

Good to hear Walter!

Brian said...

We all have our neuroses, Swede. I congratulate you on beating this thing. It is no small feat. As for the music, I will be following Walter's lead. Feel better!

Old Pa's Corner said...

I like this that track sort of creeps all over you. I am heading the Spotify way right now.

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