Album #32: Modern Times

 Released August 29, 2006.


Released 5 years after Love and Theft, this album was another critical and commercial success for Dylan. Another homage to the greats of folk and blues, this album received some backlash because of accusations of plagiarism. I think those who protested fundamentally misunderstood the traditions of folk and blues songwriting. In addition, Dylan’s interpretations are entirely his own.

My favorites from this album are “Thunder on the Mountain” (with its surprising shoutout to Alicia Keys),  “Spirit on the Water,” and “Workingman’s Blues #2,” but all the songs are good. Dylan’s voice is raspier, but his phrasing and emotion are outstanding. 

Thunder on the Mountain:

https://youtu.be/hAuC78omlMU?si=eyyW6u73m4cwBPp1

I was thinkin' 'bout Alicia Keys, couldn't keep from crying
When she was born in Hell's Kitchen, I was living down the line
I'm wondering where in the world Alicia Keys could be
I been looking for her even clear through Tennessee


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