Duke's trying something new, again-give him a break or a try
40+yrslistening&still_learning | Colorado | 09/04/2004
(3 out of 5 stars)
"For Duke fans, such as certain of the preceding reviewers, satisfaction with Exalted Lover may be challenging based on how far he has deviated this time from their expectations. Duke has always been into variety, but this time he goes a few places his fans may not expect. The fact is, he has a long and illustrious career and has played so many excellent guitar moments (and in such a variety of styles) that he probably needs a break from being "Mr. Guitar." In any case, this leaves him trying to carry more weight with his singing, which is his lesser strength. So, 1 star off for limited guitar work, 1 star off for too much reliance on his respectable-but-not-award-winning singing, 1 star off for including a bit of country music (every critic has his prejudice), but 1 star back for stretching stylistically to prevent stagnation.
So you just need to hear more Duke on guitar? Then try any of the other 15 or so albums of Duke's that are available, all of which are drenched with marvelous guitar work. If you like any of his work, then you know he's pretty timeless, so an older album that's new to you may be more satisfying than a new release that's not your stylistic preference. If you already have all his albums, then you know he's earned your respect whether this release suits your taste or not."