Rhett Miller (Deluxe Version)

iTunes Review

Whether Rhett Miller is recording under his own name or with his band the Old 97’s, he’s still the same authoritative voice of measured reason within the confines of romance. He leans towards straightforward pop as a solo act, leaving behind his band’s penchant for the country breeze. “I Need To Know Where I Stand” is a no-nonsense piece of classic pop that would’ve easily purred out of an AM radio back in the early ‘70s. Artistically, he slots in comfortably alongside his elders — Marshall Crenshaw comes to mind — writing subtly melodic treasures with lyrics that suggest he’s paying attention to what growing older in a world of eternal youth can do to a man. “Happy Birthday Don’t Die” has a loose, jokey vibe running under its stream-of-consciousness, and an extended jam just for kicks. “Bonfire” is the 4 AM ballad. “Another Girlfriend,” “Haphazardly” and “If It’s Not Love” tell us Miller isn’t likely to be an expert on how to succeed in relationships anytime soon. But for a songwriter it’s the struggle that makes it worth it.