Dave Alvin / King of California (1994)

Dave Alvin was responsible for the white hot guitar leads in The Blasters and true to those colors, he often fronts a gloriously loud rock group. But the plaintive and comparatively subdued King of California proves his versatility. It’s another installment of the lock-and-stock brand of Americana that he does so well, although here he is supported by a smaller, more intimate band. Session man extraordinaire Greg Leisz does really sweet accompaniment on a variety of guitars which lend the album much tonal color and ear candy. Alvin’s own nicotine-tarred vocals (a far cry from brother Phil's moon-mad roadhouse howl) and six-string instrumental abilities are also noteworthy. But it’s Alvin's mature songwriting that brings it all together. The songs spin meandering, desperado yarns that are equal parts honky tonk, Delta blues, and rock and roll. They touch on universal themes in poetic ways and unfold like novels. "Fourth of July" has a heartsick narrative of two lovers in trouble with their relationship and a musical accompaniment that buoys your hope for them as much as they seem uncertain about their own future. We've all been there, the feeling is plain to see, yet Alvin paints the picture so perfectly that I want to jump up and scream, 'Yes! That's it, he nailed it!' It’s such a convincing act that I’m hard pressed to believe Alvin is from California, and not Texas. There's more in store, too. “Little Honey” was written with John Doe, as if any name dropping is needed. To keep you guessing, the duets “Goodbye Again” with wonderful Rosie Flores and “What Am I Worth” with Syd Straw provide additional variety and justify a cursory inspection of the record, should you not get along with the rest. After finishing this album, and several repeat listens, I found myself fevered to lay hands on all the Dave Alvin material I could find. So beware, late night shoppers, it's addictive!