Not being able to take things seriously is a bit of a problem sometimes. Corb Lund’s “El Viejo” is his first album of original material since 2020’s critically acclaimed Agricultural Tragic, which was named an album of the year by the readers of No Depression. Which is fine, but that magazine probably doesn’t fill its reviews with references to obscure footballers, Frasier, and Clutch like we do.
So in that spirit lets try and be sensible and say it is a masterful blend of Latin-infused melodies reminiscent of Calexico, sprinkled with Tex Mex influences, and infused with the timeless essence of old-time honky-tonk.
But the issue is that Lund himself doesn’t take it too seriously either. Take the standout track, “I Had It All”. On one hand it is a captivating beauty, seamlessly weaving catchy melodies, but on the other there’s vivid tales of debauchery, cleverly rhyming “graduate courses” with “the inside of bars and the outside of horses.”
Throughout the album, Lund effortlessly crafts characters akin to those of a brilliant writer, from the faded fighter in “Out On A Win” to the humorous portrayal in “Redneck Rehab,” reminiscent of Cleatus The Slack Jawed Yokel’s theme song (there’s an early Simpsons’ reference for you instead).
Yet, amidst the humour, there’s also a tender side, exemplified by the title track dedicated to Lund’s friend and mentor Ian Tyson.
Indeed, each song serves as a short story, offering diverse narratives and emotional depth. “The Game Gets Hot” unfolds a plot worthy of an HBO series, while “Girl With The Stratocaster” adds timeless vibes with its plaintive questioning, matched by harmonies and mandolin.
The album’s mischievous streak is evident in tracks like “It Takes Practice,” offering satirical commentary, while “Insha’Allah” boldly appears to explore themes from the perspective of an Islamic fighter. “Familiar Drunken Feeling,” meanwhile, injects lightheartedness, detailing the legalisation of marijuana in Colorado with disastrous consequences as they say in sitcoms, tackled with Lund’s signature wit. He also swears blind this ones true, too – but then all the best storytellers say that.
And make no mistake, Corb Lund is just that. Actually, you imagine it’s the one thing he takes very seriously indeed.
Rating 8.5/10
