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FilterYou want this album. [#21, p.98]
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Most of To The Races is arresting and alive, filled with little moments--a snaky violin, a warm harmonica, a lilting melody--that serve as reminders of how important the concept of "performance" can be.
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With folky guitar picking, lush harmonies and sophisticated melodies, this album is a must-have for all of Bachmann's fans.
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As with Icky Mettle and then with Crooked Fingers, Bachmann once again has provided a taut and startling proper debut; his writing feels completely reenergized.
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Finally Bachmann's songs sound familiar and not derivative.
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Alternative PressThe sound is closer to the Boss' Nebraska--as Will Oldham would have done it--haunting, reflective and drowning in sorrow. [Oct 2006, p.200]
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Fans of Bachmann's gruff Neil Diamond-meets-Steve Earle vocals and lonesome and literate subject matter will find everything they love about the Carolina native on display, while those who prefer his vocal affectations surrounded by the din of a full band should stick with his group efforts.
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In spite of its flaws, To the Races charms with its somber atmosphere.
User score distribution:
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Positive: 5 out of 6
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Mixed: 1 out of 6
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Negative: 0 out of 6
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JeremyFSep 14, 2007
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DanielLOct 4, 2006
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StevenGSep 6, 2006This really is a powerful album.