Search - Anders Osborne :: Break the Chain

Very good record, but does not do him justice

cdolese | Kyle, Tx United States | 06/10/2003

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I grew up in and around New Orleans, where I understand Anders spends most of his time playing. He is from another country like, swedish i think, but you'd think he was raised in New Orleans. This guy is such a treat to see live. I have not seen him live since about 1997 or so, since i moved from louisiana to austin, but he was great. I have seen him play live at least a dozen times. He is just one of those acts that stir the soul. a great jammin good time every time.
While the songs on this album are really good, they just dont seem to capture the great vibe this guy has on stage.
Some good slide playing, good singing. I'd say go buy it. but better yet, go see him live....unfortunately, he does not stray far from new orleans as much as he should....."

Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On

Lee Armstrong | Winterville, NC United States | 09/17/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Anders Osborne is an excellent recording artist whose CDs are consistently excellent. "Break the Chain" was originally released in 1996 and reissued in 2002 on Shanachie. In the credits, it was said that it was "produced by Anders Osborne and determination," which seems like an apt credit. Anders rocks at full volume on the opener "I'm Back In." Theresa Anderson's violin punctuates the midtempo track "Time," "I reach out & so do you, but not my way; Love don't change, people do & so we may, Will we ever learn?" My favorite track is the smoking "Right on the Money" that has such an addictive throbbing beat that it'll make you keep reaching for the repeat button. Anders vocals are electronically distorted on the start of "Give It to Me 2 Times," "Everything is out of control." The title track is a slower tune that allows the beauty of Anders' voice to shine. "Having a Good Time Too" has a bouncy Keb' Mo' feel. "Now Not Tomorrow" has a darker lustful tone counterpointed by a great soul chorus, "Love me now not tomorrow." "Real World" boasts one of those stop & start guitar parts that smokes with a funky beat. Anders does a rare cover of Van Morrison's "Stoned Me" that doesn't eclipse Van's version, but has a nice trade-off vocal with Gary Hirstius. Theresa Anderson's vocals open on the pensive "Heaven by 7," "When we get to Paradise, we can toast with Jesus Christ." Three quarters of these tracks rock furiously. Anders is a great musician, songwriter and vocalist. It's an infectious combination. Enjoy!"