For The Beauty Of Wynona

For The Beauty Of Wynonna' is the second album by Canadian producer and musician Daniel Lanois who is mostly known for producing Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson, Neil Young and massive U2 albums such as 'The Unforgettable Fire' and 'The Joshua Tree'. From the haunting beats of 'The Messenger', to the anthemic Robbie Robertson sounding gem 'Still Learning To Crawl' to the chart topping 'Lotta Love To Give', Lanois proves that he's not only the magnetic, highly in-demand producer but also a world-class singer/songwriter and musician. Songs like 'Still Learning How To Crawl', 'Death Of A Train', 'The Unbreakable Chain' and the closing 'Rocky World' are lost masterpieces from someone better known for making other people sound good.

Superproducer Daniel Lanois took a rare turn on center stage as a performer on his second solo release, For the Beauty of Wynona. Released in 1993, the album follows his earlier release, Acadie. Unlike that album, which had some superstar appearances, For the Beauty of Wynona is a more low-key affair and has a more subtle impact. Lanois has a limited range as a vocalist, but he possesses a warmth that draws in the listener. Producing himself, Lanois also is an accomplished guitarist, although his protege, Malcolm Burn, also adds some guitar as well as keyboards. The music is often moody and watercolored, but there are some more upbeat moments like the jaunty melody of "Sleeping in the Devil's Bed," which has a country feel, and the single "Lotta Love to Give," which is wispy but anchored by twang guitar and has a catchy chorus and serrated guitar solo. For the Beauty of Wynona is not an immediately striking album but rather one that slowly grows on the listener. It also proves that Lanois has something to say on his own. ~ Tom Demalon