The real deal...
The Expat | Houston, TX | 09/26/2004
(4 out of 5 stars)
"It's not that Richmond Fontaine does anything unique, but that they do it so well. Willy Vlautin's lyrics capture the sadness and beauty in the lives of normal people without sounding trite, while the music accompanies the words with familiar beats and tunes. The band's biggest departure from traditional alt-country is the constant presence of a pedal-steel guitar. This usually works - giving the music the gravity to accompany Vlautin's stories.
Richmond Fontaine is at their best on the album's first two tracks. "The Longer You Wait" paints a remarkably full picture of an estranged couple in only a few lines, while "Barely Losing" accomplishes the same but in showing simple happiness. As for the rest of the album, "Post to Wire" and "Through" would be radio singles in a better world - catchy tunes with accessible and relatively light lyrics. "Polaroid" and "Two Broken Hearts" are sad but strong songs.
Unlike most reviewers here, I don't give 5 stars out very often. "Post to Wire" misses out on a fifth star because of a few missteps where the band strays too far from their strengths by trying to "rock out" or be too moody and mellow. Maybe this works better live (if the band toured more I could tell you), but the album doesn't flow in a way that keeps you from skipping around. Still, two-thirds of the songs here are gems, and it's the best of the many albums I've bought in 2004 so far."
Best in the West
M. Lewis | Auburn,Wa | 11/23/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"After seeing Willie and the gang live several times, this has to be the best album that RF has put out!! Every show is jammed packed and the album features new songs and tales of the adventures that Willie and the gang experience. ALSO CHECK OUT THE ALBUMS BY GRAND CHAMPEEN OUT OF AUSTIN,TEXAS. THEY TOURED W/ RF THIS SUMMER."
Very Good
Ruben A. Gonzalez | England | 05/12/2007
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Clever and amusing concept having the "Dear Pete" letters peppering this wonderful set of tracks. Post To Wire stands out as the most likable cut, but many others as well. World weary, forlorn, gritty, and occasionally gloomy, but heartfelt songs."