Although released in 2021 - this album still resonates in a very real way today ,at this turbulent time in American society and global geopolitics.
As Dean describes in the liner notes:
“My latest album, “American Lullaby”, “reflects my personal take on all the crazy stuff that’s been happening in America – and around the world - for the last six years. Like all lullabies, it’s filled with tales of dark deeds and disaster, but couched in soft, gentle tones, meant to soothe and comfort the listener, while gently bracing them for the potential terrors that await.”
Indeed it does - the title track is exquisite in terms of atmosphere ,delivery and delicacy - however the lyrics describe the darker hypocrisy ,tribal division and self harm that we find ourselves in as a society - as well as looking back on America's conflicted past.
“You can hear the angels sigh
Its an American Lullaby”
However , humor abounds throughout the album : “Too Much Stuff” - is a satire on mass consumerism and consumption - and the lyrics are hilarious!
“Now some may be somewhat skeptical, but everything’s collectable.
And pardon my inelegance, I don’t mean to impugn your intelligence.
But stop by one afternoon, you’ll see my entire bedroom is strewn
with autographed production cells from a Bugs Bunny Cartoon,
Plus my prized signed photograph of Reese Witherspoon,
And the actual Raccoon Cap worn by Daniel Boone,
Or maybe Davey Crocket. Plus this gold-plated locket, I keep in my pocket.
Along with this watch, it keeps really good time – so don’t knock it.”
Deans skill as a songwriter shines throughout - clever use of alliteration and rhyme makes the darker subject matter more palatable.
“Halfway Normal World” is an ode to an earlier more innocent time , when everything was slower and less fraught: pre-internet , social media and cellphones!
This song evokes a simpler time of movie theaters ,diners and jukeboxes.
It reminded me of his first hit “Ariel” in 1977.
The Wurlitzer electric piano helps takes you there - back to the 1970’s!
“The Russians Are Coming” evokes the ”red scare” and communist fears of the 1950’s - and with clever satire shows how “the Russians are here!” - influencing our society today.
Again - its fantastic wordplay and demonstrates such acumen and expertise of presenting dark reality with humor!
No subject is left untouched and there’s even a song about the COVID-19 pandemic.
The album ends with an exquisite song “On A Summer’s Night” where the gift of nature and being with the one you love makes any anguish disappear:
“All my worries and my fears
Seem to suddenly disappear,
The moment you draw near.
All at once my way is crystal clear.
And the world seems right on a summer's night.
All is calm and the world seems right.”
The flugelhorn adds to the atmosphere of tranquility - with Marvin Stamm playing a beautiful top line melody - as the song fades to birdsong - a gift of nature that hopefully will not be destroyed by mankind.
“American Lullaby” is a well crafted album by one of America’s revered songwriters - with a career spanning over 45 years.
Highly recommended!
Go check it out here:
https://deanfriedman.bandcamp.com/album/american-lullaby