• Record Label: Rykodisc
  • Release Date: Jul 29, 2008
Metascore
67

Generally favorable reviews - based on 11 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 5 out of 11
  2. Negative: 0 out of 11
  1. This is a solid if flawed first try.
  2. Alternative Press
    90
    James Jackson Toth's solo debut has the depth, energy and character of a great comedy. [Sep 2008, p.151]
  3. Calling on producer Steve Fisk, current Wilco guitarist Nels Cline, and members of Vetiver and Evangelista, Toth conjures a down-home vibe that sinks in slowly but surely.
  4. Mojo
    80
    Waiting in Vain mines a harmony-rich seam of sticky-fingered country rock and blue sky FM pop. [Oct 2008, p.109]
  5. The result is pale, beefy, and contemptuous.
  6. Q Magazine
    60
    Squally closer 'The Dome' aside, he has a surprisingly light voice and--especially on the straight country of 'Doreen' and poppy 'The Banquet Styx'--a deft musical touch. [Oct 2008, p.152]
  7. 60
    Well, pray the restaurant and lounge crowd is ready for a scruffy fellow traveler who can sing about "Cocaine and bourbon / Pinball and pool" without prompting any check requests.
  8. Waiting in Vain captures the modest landscape of America’s backroads and countrysides.
  9. Uncut
    80
    Toth's chimeric qualities are still evident. [Oct 2008, p.113]
  10. Under The Radar
    60
    Toth creates a familiar sonic template that focuses his quirks and makes his surreal symbolism all more approachable. [Summer 2008, p.98]

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