Ryan Adams and The Cardinals’ third album of the year, “29”, brings a whole new sound to Ryan’s collection, but still manages to complement his entire catalog. The first track, “29,” reflects The Grateful Dead obsession that Adams has been parading over the last year. The album’s third track, “Nightbirds”, sounds like something from the “Love is Hell” recordings, with its haunting piano and ominous lyrics. “I feel like a body stuffed into a trunk, for a million years of lying and getting drunk.” The fourth track, “Blue Sky Blues”, captures the pain of trying to help someone who doesn’t want to be helped. Adams never fails to bring something entirely new to each album. “29” is the best album Adams has done with the Cardinals, but his best work is yet to be heard. Its official release is set for December 20. Expect a tour and possibly a fourth Cardinals record early 2006.
5 out of 5 stars
