Music Review

Real Animal

Real Animal by Alejandro Escovedo

Reviewed by Jeff McCord

June 2008

Can the Alejandro Escovedo who couched his earlier songs in a fog of romantic imagery be the same one spelling things out on the autobiographical Real Animal (Back Porch/Manhattan)? The San Antonio–born singer, an inveterate rocker who writes tender ballads like “Slow Down,” has always been a study in contradictions. A near-fatal bout with hepatitis C in 2002 hardly slowed him down, but Escovedo has found a new lust for life—a life his latest album now celebrates. The conceit may be self-serving, yet Escovedo and writing partner Chuck Prophet (whose stylistic impact is clear), along with producer Tony Visconti (whose work with David Bowie and T. Rex influenced a younger Escovedo), have made what is first and foremost a thrilling rock record. With a richer, glossier sound, the music soars. Pay close attention, though, and there they are: songs about family and former bands, rampant Iggy Pop worship, and tales of regret fused with furious rave-ups. Maudlin? Never. Disjointed? Maybe, but as an ironic Escovedo himself notes in “Chelsea Hotel ’78,” it somehow all makes perfect sense.

E-mail

Password

Remember me

Forgot your password?

X (close)

Registering gets you access to online content, allows you to comment on stories, add your own reviews of restaurants and events, and join in the discussions in our community areas such as the Recipe Swap and other forums.

In addition, current TEXAS MONTHLY magazine subscribers will get access to the feature stories from the two most recent issues. If you are a current subscriber, please enter your name and address exactly as it appears on your mailing label (except zip, 5 digits only). Not a subscriber? Subscribe online now.

E-mail

Re-enter your E-mail address

Choose a password

Re-enter your password

Name

  
 

Address

Address 2

City

State

Zip (5 digits only)

Country

What year were you born?

Are you...

Male Female

Remember me

X (close)