There’s quite a supporting cast on Jenny Lewis’s second LP. Elvis Costello makes an appearance, Zooey Deschanel, Jonathan Rice and M Ward all pop by. Crikey, even hairy old Black Crowe Chris Robinson sticks his head around the door.
But for fans of the Rilo Kiley singer’s brilliant debut solo album, Rabbit Fur Coat, it’s not those appearing on Acid Tongue that stand out. It’s a noticeable pair of absentees.
The down-home, Opry-esque feel which made RFC such a wonderful record, was, in no small part, the result of the vocal interplay going on between Lewis and The Watson Twins. And those wondering if their non-appearance will cause a shift in the mood, may have their suspicions confirmed. If they hang around long enough, though, they may also conclude that worse things happen at sea.
Acid Tongue is a sexier and more raucous record than its predecessor. Just as arch (take Jonathan Rice’s Merle Haggard interjection on the ‘Comeback Special’ wig-out ‘Jack Killed Mom’), and – as proven by the gorgeous title track, ‘Tryin’ My Best’, and ‘Sing A Song’ – every bit as touching.
Calling to mind everyone from Minnie Ripperton, Polly Harvey (on the White Chalk-ey opener, ‘Black Sand’), Joan Wasser, Bobbie Gentry and Lorretta Lynn, it’s as smart and joyful a record as you’ll hear all year.
Ironically, as Rilo Kiley start struggling for breath, their front-woman is emerging as a talent of real stature. And while the big name back-up is impressive, it’s probably not necessary – Jenny Lewis is ready to go A-List.
Key Track: ‘Acid Tongue’