Album, Single and EP Reviews


 

 

  Exile on Coldharbour Lane by Alabama 3


Exile on Coldharbour Lane  cover art

Artist: Alabama 3
Title: Exile on Coldharbour Lane
Catalogue Number: Elemental Records ELM 40 CD
Review Format: CD
Release Year: 1997



Probably best known for providing the theme song to "The Sopranos", it would however be a real pity if this were to be the only song you were to hear from this band.  They produce music that is rich in variety, and thankfully bereft of compromise.


The full version of "Woke Up This Morning" (the Soprano's theme), complete with spoken intro and 'rap' break, certainly has much more depth when heard in its entirety - and it becomes apparent that first and foremost this is an excellent piece of music.  "U Don't Dans 2 Tekno" is country music of sorts, but given a series of distinctly modern twists.  On "Ain't Goin' To Goa" the self-help industry is given a damn good kicking; while the funky rhythm of "Hypo Full of Love (The 12 Step Plan) make it one that you just can't help but like.  The album comes to a close with the sharply observed "Peace In The Valley" that has an almost old style spiritual feel to it in places.


This is a band with a lot going for it, and although their somewhat tongue in cheek approach may not be to everyone's taste, it can't disguise the fact that their music is fresh and imaginative, even if at times it does veer towards the wilder, weirder and stranger end of the rock spectrum.


www.alabama3.co.uk
Reviewer:
Review Date: June 21 2007