Storyville

After embracing the sounds of modern recording technology with his debut solo album, former Band leader Robbie Roberston decided to slink down to New Orleans for his follow up, STORYVILLE. The sultry sounds of the French Quarter reverberate into a decidedly more cohesive soundscape than Robertson's first release. Although the album loosely follows a story line, the drama doesn't unfold in chronological order (reprogramming the sequencing on your CD player could solve the mystery if one is so inclined). The unity, therefore, must be held together by the music itself. The chanting of tribal chiefs, subtle rhythms, and Robertson's own masterful guitar work and roughhewn vocals are the threads that bind STORYVILLE.
Once again, Robertson elects to include the presence of more technically gifted singers to augment his own contributions. Aaron Neville, Bruce Hornsby, and former Band mate Rick Danko are but a few star cameos that help spice up Robertson's swampy stew. Robertson has long since left the phantom soul and keen Americana narratives that earmarked his best work with the Band. STORYVILLE is the reminder that the former Canadian is indeed a native son at heart and he's not quite done soaking up the essence of the country.|