Golden Smog: Another Fine Day

Alt-country supergroup Golden Smog is back again with their new release "Another Fine Day." The band consists of Dan Murphy (Soul Asylum), Gary Louris & Marc Perlman (Jayhawks), Kraig Johnson (Run Westy Run), and Jeff Tweedy (Wilco). By and large this is a pretty good CD. I've learned never to set my expectations too high when it comes to supergroups, (remember Pete Douge, Shawn Mullins and Matthew Sweet's 'The Thorns'? meh?) But as far as supergroup offerings go...this one ain't bad.

The CD starts off slowly with a fine but forgetable tune in Louris and Johnson's "You Make It Easy." Things really get into gear by the third song (and first single) "5-22-02", sung by Johnson. Some critics have said that the CD is lacking the necessary hooks. I disagree. The hook in that song is undeniable. And my personal favorite track, Marc Perlman's "Corvette" is possibly the hookiest thing in the Smog catalogue. Other standout tracks for me are Louris' "Frying Pan Eyes", Dan Murphy's rocker "Hurricane" and the Golden Prog of "Beautiful Mind". It should be noted however, that my favorite superhero Jeff Tweedy's contributions are unfortunately few and relatively weak. Overall this an enjoyable listening experience. Rating: 3.5 stars.

Listen to the tunes and purchase the CD here.
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