Sunday, June 29, 2008
A+E, Music, Reviews

Kevn Kinney

 “McDougal Blues”

Kevn Kinney was barely known when this solo debut was first released by Island Records in 1990. Drivin’ N’ Cryin’ had recorded three albums, but none had made a dent in the national consciousness. However, Peter Buck, who produced the album, was hot due to R.E.M.’s “Green,” which brought attention to Kinney’s project.
  
While not a commercial hit, “McDougal Blues” was critically lauded and also increased Drivin’ N’ Cryin’s visibility. Unavailable for years but now back in print through the magic of downloading, it’s ready for a fresh lease on life.

Newcomers will find these 12 sparse, stripped-down but sharply produced tunes to be some of Kinney’s finest non-band work. Although D n’ C members contribute backing, this is Kinney wearing his tattered troubadour hat, scouring the New York City streets on the title track, looking for Carole King and Joni Mitchell with a bagful of songs similar to what Dylan might have written had he been born and bred in the South.
   
It’s a stark yet seldom raw folk album, reminiscent of Bruce Springsteen’s “Nebraska” and informed by Kinney’s restless, edgy spirit. “I’m not afraid to die, but I am afraid to cry,” he laments, revealing a softer, more vulnerable side, mirrored by the bleak “Heard the Laughter Ending,” on which Kinney’s acoustic guitar is supported by Nita Karpf’s lovely, mournful cello.

There’s no better testament to an album’s quality than its longevity and ability to connect and inspire new fans over the decades. Eighteen years after its initial appearance, “MacDougal Blues” remains fresh, inspired and pertinent. 3.5 STARS—Hal Horowitz