There doesn’t seem to be a word in the English language for how I want to describe Emmylou Harris’ new recording.
“Mature” comes closest, but it doesn’t convey the mix of artistry, humility, and wisdom in Harris’ singing and musical choices. As the song from which the recording title is taken (”Old Five and Dimers Like Me”) suggests, there’s a … not quite satisfaction … acceptance? of the place on the journey, closer to the end than the beginning, that is uncommon and welcome to those of us in similar places. An awareness of how decisions made long ago affect us now, an emerging sense of the grace that got us here, and a loving acknowledgment of those who share or shared the path with us.
On the first couple of listens, the standout track for me is the opener, “Shores of White Sand,” whose chorus goes like this:
Some say I’m sinking
To the muddy bottom
But somehow I’m sailing
To shores of white sand
There’s something there for me to hold onto.
Her record knocks me out. I saw her live here not long ago. Would that we could all live so gracious and melodious a life.
Peace,
Milton
don't eat alone
July 23rd, 2008
Amen! Emmylou Harris has been one of my favorites for years. I haven’t heard the new album, but I’m going to rectify that soon.
NIW
July 23rd, 2008