Have you ever listened to an album and find yourself smiling throughout the whole thing?
The new album, Dance of Love, by the cult folk singer Tucker Zimmerman backed by Big Thief, does exactly that for me. The 10 songs are a perfect balance of tenderness, humor and authenticity.
Making music since the '60s, Zimmerman has flown under the radar to most, yet is a musician’s musician. David Bowie named Zimmerman’s 1969 debut Ten Songs as one of his favorite albums. Many contemporary artists mark him as an influence in their songwriting, from Katie Crutchfield (Waxahatchee), Angel Olsen and Tyler Childers, to the members of Big Thief.
With Big Thief producing and backing him up along with collaborators Mat Davidson (Twain) and Zach Burba (iji), their mark on Zimmerman’s 11th album is clear. However, Zimmerman’s understated vocals and songwriting remains front and center. It’s a beautiful balance that showcases his skill while still embracing the distinct sound Big Thief is known for.
The inventive spirit of both Zimmerman, who has lived in Belgium since the 1970s, and Big Thief is ever present, and it's never really clear who is showing their colors. Is it Big Thief? Is it Tucker? I don’t know and I don’t care. It’s an incredible pairing of the two quirky artists.
At 83 years old, Zimmerman’s voice is soft and lived in, and at times, attempts to avoid the spotlight like in “Don’t Go Crazy (Go In Peace).” Songs “Lorelei” and “Burial at Sea” feature Zimmerman and Lenker taking turns singing the verses while others like “They Don’t Say It (But It’s True),” showcase Lenker’s harmonies on equal ground with Zimmerman.
Standout track “Nobody Knows” features a bluesy driving beat ala JJ Cale, with Zimmerman’s understated vocals complemented by Lenker’s hushed background harmonies. “Ram-a-lama-ding-dong Song” is upbeat and silly, followed by the almost hymn-like “Don’t Go Crazy.”
“Leave It On The Porch Outside” has Zimmerman’s wife Marie-Claire taking the lead on vocals in the classic folk revival tune. It’s a lo-fi recording that sounds like they’re all sitting around a living room singing together. The song is real, a bit messy, and it’s completely filled with love.
In a press statement, Big Thief expressed their admiration, saying, “It was an extreme honor to make a record with one of the greatest songwriters of all time. We believe in this music with all of our hearts, and we hope it brings you joy.”
And you can feel that joy in every note.
Must listens
- "The Idiot's Maze"
- "Burial at Sea"
- "Leave In On The Porch Outside"
- "Don't Go Crazy (Go In Peace)"
- "Nobody Knows"
