Search - John Entwistle :: Whistle Rymes

Great overlooked solo effort from the (late) Ox.

Mark S. Wolin | 07/10/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Undoubtedly, few know of (or perhaps care about) the late John Entwistle's solo efforts. This is shame, as he was an extremely strong songwriter and performer in his own right, as is evidenced here and from his Who performances. The cuts here and on his first solo album, "Smash Your Head Against the Wall," are typical and typically great efforts from the Ox. If you are familiar with and enjoy his Who work ("My Wife," "Boris the Spider," "The Quiet One," "Trick of the Light," "Cousin Kevin," "Success Story," etc.), then you know what you're in for here. Entwistle always had a darker, quirkier sense of humor than Peter Townshend, making his songs a tad less accessible while no less rockin'. Within this disc, you will find tunes about Peeping Toms, bitter Ex-Husbands, men soliciting women they THINK are prostitutes, and chumps who are chronically lied to. All very funny and replete with fantastic musicianship. Who knows how long these discs will be in print, so grab 'em while you can. Again, if you like John's songs on Who albums, you will definetely love these discs (though, to be fair, because of the different musicians, it doesn't SOUND much like the Who... I mean, who could play drums like Keith Moon except Keith Moon?). A fine album (as is "Smash...")."

The best solo album by ANY member of The Who

Mark S. Wolin | Attelboro, MA | 08/17/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Whistle Rymes is by far the best solo album of any Who member. Although Empty Glass by Pete is top notch, this album is simply much stronger. As stated in previous reviews the writing is incredible and Frampton's work practically jumps out at you-his guitar style is so recognizable. One thing that hasn't been said about this album though is the emotion in John's singing. Songs like "I Feel Better" and Apron Strings really showcase this well. One thing I would love to see is a tribute/remake of this album with guest singers. Couldn't you just see Kid Rock singing "I Feel Better" or "I Found Out"? How about Travis Tritt covering "Thinking it Over"?At least that way these incredible songs would see the light of day and perhaps John would get the recognition he always deserved."

An exceptional and complete album

T. Elwin | Arlington, VA United States | 03/19/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This album is a great experience, the songs tie together and also stand alone as individually engaging. Peter Frampton's playing screams and Entwistle's piano playing is an uplifting rumble. Bass, Brass, and Bawdy, Black Humor, as always, are found in all Entwistle albums, but I feel this is his most complete effort, not a novelty by a solo performer, but a strong album; by anyone. Some great lyrics "I Feel Better" (one of the most beautiful love songs written) and "Thinking It Over" leap out as examples."