Under normal circumstances, I would never review a greatest hits album since I usually find them to be nothing more than a money-making and marketing ploy for an artist who has not done anything of late. However, I have to make a exception for Mellencamp's Words & Music.
Mellencamp is another artist l learned to love thanks to my father (who for a non-musician, has an amazing depth of listening habits). Mellencamp's music and lyrics have always told a great story. From the powerful family farm anthem "Rain on the Scarecrow" to the love stroy of "Key West Intermezzo," you can always count on a Mellencamp song to have a story with a beggining, middle and end. I think that such songwriting is truly an art and usually makes for entertaining music.
Mellencamp's true talent lies in three areas. First, his songs evoke an image and a feeling. Whether that feeling is one of sadness, like In Jackie Brown or joyful past (Cherry Bomb), you feel something. Second, Mellencamp as a musician is able to craft music that helps evoke those feelings, emphasize them or present a counterpoint to the lyrics. It takes a true craftsman to do that in so many different formats. Third, and finally, Mellencamp and the musicians he surrounds himself with can create stripped down rock music (R.O.C.K in the U.S.A) and layered, multi-instrument sounds (Paper in Fire) with skill and style.
One of the nice things about Words & Music is that the 33 "Greatest hits" are truly that. There is no question that these songs were on the charts and are among Mellencamp's best material. Furthermore, the songs span an impressive time range, from the mid-70's to the early 2000's. I enjoy the way the collection is put together, although, like most people, I think I might have done better. But at least there is an attempt to do something other than a chronological listing of songs.
A quick word about the two new tracks, "Walk Tall" and "Thank You." These two tracks show a stripped down version of Mellencamp's lyrical style, but still present a complete song. The two show a maturity in an artists who still has something to say. Musically, the songs are more complex, with some layered backing vocals and strong musicianship.
Again, even though I wouldn't normally recommend a greatest hits album to most people, those who only know Mellencamp through a couple of songs would do well to consider purchasing this album, a true greatest hits album that still holds together, despite its varied sources.
JohnMellencamp.com - The Official John Mellencamp Website
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