Changing Horses

iTunes Review

With the addition of pedal steel guitarist and Dobro player Kitt Ketterman providing prominent instrumental accompaniment, Ben Kweller explores the rustic origins of country music. In the past, Kweller has alluded to these Americana influences, but from the opening notes of "Gypsy Rose," it's obvious that he intends to dig deep. Changing Horses reminds one of Bob Dylan's John Wesley Harding album with its minimalist backing band coming across like a tight-knit ensemble set up in the living room. The sweet flow of "Old Hat" has the warm intimacy of Ray LaMontagne matched with the historical sweep of Ryan Adams' neo-traditionalist songwriting as Kweller sings in his gentlest tones. "Wantin’ Her Again" and "Things I Like to Do" fulfill their country rock ambitions, while "On Her Own" and "Homeward Bound" chase the ghost of the Rolling Stones at their most C&W. "Sawdust Man" steps up the groove for a jamboree feel, but Kweller prefers the slow, mournful trickle of a train leaving the station with just a sweeping pedal steel guitar for the ride home.