Amnesia
Whether he’s billed with Fairport Convention, his ex-wife Linda or solo, every Richard Thompson album has its moments of stunning songwriting, shocking electric or acoustic guitar runs, and a ballad waiting to tear your heart open. “Waltzing’s For Dreamers” is the obligatory tear-jerker here and it delivers in pathos. For the rest, Thompson’s hooked to his Fender Stratocaster and ready for quick battle. “Turning of the Tide” begins at a jaunty pace with just enough room in its three minutes to allow Thompson several quick lead guitar swipes that are awe-inspiring in their concision. “Gypsy Love Songs” has an arch-drama to its descending windmill chords and extended guitar solos. “Can’t Win” and “I Still Dream” express Thompson’s hopeless hope, while “Jerusalem On the Jukebox” and “Yankee, Go Home” are surprisingly political, coming from this man of tortured hearts.
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