Search - Paul Siebel :: Woodsmoke & Oranges / Jack Knife Gypsy

Big between the cracks

obdan | OB | 06/19/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"John Prine, Leo Kottke, and Jimmie Dale Gilmore written by Bob Dylan, or vice versa. I would highly recommend this wonderful album, trust me, these are the prettiest butterfly wings you'll ever find. I like Lucinda Williams, and think Gillian Welch is incredible, I love Gram Parsons, and Uncle Tupelo. I like everything on this album and give it frequently as a gift. I have a 300 disc CD changer that I am constantly upgrading, Paul Siebel has remained for about seven years now."

Pure Musical Genius

**** | Pleasant Hill, CA | 06/14/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

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This is a compilation of Paul Siebel's two legendary albums, "Woodsmoke and Oranges" and "Jack-Knife Gypsy". I can't remember when I first heard Paul Siebel's music, probably around 1970. However, I'll never forget the song. It was "Bride 1945" played over an FM radio station. The song was hauntingly beautiful, and I immediately bought "Woodsmoke and Oranges" and found that every song on the album was unique. The lyrics, music, and David Bromberg's exquisite guitar made each song a jewel captured in time. I used to listen to that LP in the dark at night in my little university apartment and tried to imagine the kind of man who could write such sensitive and sometimes cynical lyrics and sing with such feeling. I guess I had an aural crush on Paul Siebel. I thought his music was terrific and expected him to become famous. Eventually I came to the conclusion that I was possibly the only person on the west coast of America who knew who he was. His second album Jack-Knife Gypsy" came out a couple of years later and showcased his versatility. "Hillbilly Child", which he allegedly wrote with his friend Linda Ronstadt in mind is reminiscent of Hank Williams at his best. "Legend of the Captain's Daughter" has incredible original lyrics and a Cajun feel. I particularly like his songs, because they are not angst-ridden, self-indulgent drivel. Songs like "Pinto Pony" are visual stories that unfold like little motion pictures in your mind. They are often filled with allegorical allusions; the miners in "Jasper and the Miners" may really be about the CIA, FBI, IRS, or any diggers into one's privacy. "Ballad of Honest Sam" (allegedly about Nixon) is just as timely today given most American's disillusionment with current politics. Paul Siebel's voice is unique - kind of raw and pure. He was one of the best American singer/songwriters of the 60's and 70's but didn't get the recognition that he deserved. However, he was much appreciated by fellow musicians who recorded his songs, among them: Emmylou Harris, Linda Rondstadt, Iain Matthews, Jerry Jeff Walker, David Bromberg, Bonnie Raitt, Rosalie Sorrels, Kate Wolf, and Leo Kottke. I hope the reissue of his albums on CD will lead to his discovery by new listeners and delight by old fans like me. Time hasn't diminished the impact of these songs. They sound fresh and original with fabulous lyrics and compelling melodies.





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A must have!

Elliot Knapp | Seattle, Washington United States | 11/14/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This 2 on 1 is pure gold. Of all the "hidden gems" and "lost treasures" I've heard about, these two albums certainly rank among the highest, unassailable by nostalgic hype. Paul Siebel, clearly (and self-proclaimedly in the liner notes) influenced by Dylan, doesn't simply try to make music that tries to recreate Dylan's sound, voice and poetry (for example, like Meic Stevens or Bill Fay). Instead, Siebel understands Dylan's influence much better, and turns in songs that are not only narratives full of angst, humor, colorful characters and allegory, but he also taps into the sources of traditional Americana that were driving Bob's music. In fact, I'd say Siebel does a better and more diverse job of integrating traditional music styles into his work than Dylan. Rather, I'd probably compare him more to The Band's self-titled sophomore album (one of my very favorites). Every single song is a winner--thoughtfully written, expertly sung (think Dylan phrasing with an ear for key and a way better range), and dynamically arranged. The opening track sounds almost like Bakersfield country--there is some sweet pedal steel guitar throughout, and Siebel confidently kicks off the album. My favorites from the better-known "Woodsmoke and Oranges" are the hopeful "Nashville Again," the heart-breaking wisdom of "Then Came the Children," and the unique refrain in "Long Afternoons." "Louise" has been covered by lots of folks and it may be the reason you've even heard of Siebel (Plainsong's cover is what drew my interest). Out of the two albums, I think I may even like "Jack-knife Gypsy" better. "Jasper and the Miners" resides in its own little musical universe, concise and mysterious. The title track rocks pretty hard in a pre-Blonde on Blonde kind of way. The music is even more diverse on this album--just listen to the hoe-down feel on "Legend of the Captain's Daughter," and the boogie of "Hillbilly Child." Like I said, though, every single track is strong, with great playing, singing and effortless lyrics. Recommended for fans of Dylan, the Band, Merle Haggard, Ronnie Lane, etc. etc. Get this album--you won't regret it!"