Richard Buckner

Amazon.com
Originally sold as an exclusive to fans at his live shows, this self-titled, self-produced album showcases Richard Buckner in a most minimalist, intimate light. And to many, this is just the way the singer-songwriter ought to be heard. Though these 11 songs appear in more finished renditions on Buckner's other albums, here--played with just acoustic guitar and the singer's warbly voice--they become achingly eloquent. Stripped free of the rock arrangement found on Since, "Jewelbomb" becomes a stark and haunting ballad (and this album's highlight). Other tracks do the same, with equally rewarding results. And though this effort only showcases one aspect of Buckner's talents (the side of this singer that continues to draw comparisons to Townes Van Zandt and Nick Drake), it's a fascinating portrait of a brilliant songwriter in the midst of the creative process, putting freshly penned songs to tape. --Jason Verlinde

Richard Buckner,Richard Buckner,Overcoat Recordings,Alternative Country,Country,Country-Folk,Pop,Rock,Singer/Songwriter,United States of America

Average customer rating: richard buckner changed my life... Even better than Dents and Shells Richard's reached an impasse If you like your art a little off-centered.... in-effin-credible

Meadow Richard Buckner Manufacturer: Merge Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Styles | Music General | Country | Styles | Music Outlaw & Progressive Country | Country | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Indie Music | Stores | Music Country Folk | Country | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Crane Wife Death Songs for the Living West The Letting Go Dreamt for Light Years in the Belly of a Mountain ASIN: B000H8RV2A Release Date: 2006-09-12

Tracks:

1. Town
2. Canyon
3. Lucky
4. Mile
5. Before
6. Window
7. Kingdom
8. Numbered
9. Spell
10. The Tether And The Tie

Amazon.com

If such categories mean anything in regard to Richard Buckner, Meadow sounds more like indie rock (or occasionally classic rock) than alt-country. While Buckner's smoky vocals and elliptical lyrics continue to convey as much through sound as sense, here he reunites with producer/bassist J.D. Foster (who helmed Buckner's standout Devotion + Doubt) for a song cycle that has more powerful and propulsive arrangements than is often the case with the artist. Teaming with Foster in the rhythm section is Steven Goulding (from the Mekons and Graham Parker's Rumour), while Guided by Voices alumni Doug Gillard and Kevin March provide the front-line firepower. The melodic lilt and guitar shimmer of "Canyon" and the brooding balladry of "Numbered" (all song titles but the last are inscrutably one word) highlight a set without a throwaway track. As with Son Volt's equally terse Jay Farrar, Buckner's laconic diffidence conveys yearning, conviction, and considerable expressive subtlety. --Don McLeese

Album Description

Buckner's eighth full-length soars and swells around his signature trifecta of enigmatic poetics, swirling melodies, and that voice - a soothing drawl that's somehow road weary and buoyant all at once. The melodies are fleshed out by an all-star band: Doug Gillard (Guided By Voices, Cobra Verde), Kevin March (GBV, Those Bastard Souls, Dambuilders), J.D. Foster, and Steven Goulding (Mekons, Graham Parker, Waco Brothers). Fresh and evocative, poignant and real, it documents "the modern age wrapped up in the frustrations and sympathies of a wanderer" - Austin Chronicle.

Customer Reviews:

richard buckner changed my life..........2007-06-01

i must have been living under a rock or something because i never heard this guy before i saw him play live with my friends the six parts seven at the beachland taverne. that show totally blew me away and that night my life changed forever. it's hard to explain that, but everyone who was there that day should understand what i mean, i'm sure everyone felt it...with that said, this record paints a small corner of a picture of what happened that night in cleveland. it's not the same backing band but it is CLOSE to what i heard that night, and to me, that is worth it. every once in a while i think i've heard it all, and then someone like richard buckner finds his way into my brain and then all i can do is sit back and shake my head, because it just opens up so many more things...get this and i'm sure you will agree. definately one of the most gifted humans of all time. why aren't musicians like this getting more recognition?

Even better than Dents and Shells.......2007-03-20

I agree with one reviewer, Richard Buckner's music requires careful over and over listening. The first time you hear this album, it all seems to run together in your head, with little standout. As you grip deeper though, the melodies start to ring in your head, at the same time, you are listening to the intense lyrics that seem poetic at times. This album is possibly his best ever, and I have all of them. Its just a work of beauty.

It is a little more upbeat than Dents and Shells, and more flavorful as well. But the sparseness continues....and thats a good thing. Its not Indie persay, but not alt-country either. Its somewhere in-between these genres. Most of all, its just really good folk rock.

Richard's reached an impasse.......2007-02-27

Great singing. Excellent ensemble playing. Richard Buckner has produced another fine album, but the only problem is that it sounds very much like the last one to my ears - and a little like 'Since' and 'Impasse' in parts. A great buy if you don't own any RB albums (or only Bloomed/Devotion and Doubt, or The Hill), but I was hoping for something a little fresher this time around. (I own six RB albums already). Perhaps his next one will return to the more 'stripped back' work of the early years, or will go off in a new direction. One can only hope, as Richard - as good as he is - is starting to recycle into minor variations on a familiar theme. It happens.

If you like your art a little off-centered.... .......2007-01-18

The thing i like most about listening to richard buckner is that the way the songs are composed and sung. Like interesting art...the more often you return to it the more you see/understand/hear. I like the way the words aren't first and foremost. Yet ultiimately THEY are richard buckner....It's the perfect blend of music and lyrics...poetry in motion if you must. I am still settling in with this one....and enjoying it greatly. I like getting something out the music i listen to... and know that i can listen to richard buckners music and constantly find/hear little wonderful morsels.

in-effin-credible.......2007-01-17

Transistor International, below, may have a point, in the case of experienced Buckner fans; but i am new to him, and as an introduction, Meadow has completely blown me over. Out of ten tracks, at least five are songs i cannot believe i lived without just a week ago. I love the mood of the entire album, and it has not left my 3-disc player since i got it. I ordered Devotion and Doubt a few days after getting Meadow; and find it similar, but not quite as powerfully magnetic as Meadow. So while maybe any introduction to Richard Buckner might impress more than exposure to further material (that thrill of discovery of fresh talent), i am willing to say that Meadow could easily be the highlight of an astounding songwriting/performing career.

Average customer rating: Prince of Melancholy One of my favorites! My First Richard Buckner CD Honest, Genuine, and Intimate I wish everyone knew about him!

Bloomed Richard Buckner Manufacturer: Slow River Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Styles | Music General | Country | Styles | Music Outlaw & Progressive Country | Country | Styles | Music General | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music Alternative Folk | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Alternative Folk | Alternative Rock | Indie Music | Stores | Music General | Country | Indie Music | Stores | Music Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Indie Music | Stores | Music Country Folk | Country | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Devotion + Doubt Since Richard Buckner The Hill Sir Dark Invader Vs The Fanglord ASIN: B00000J7YT Release Date: 1998-02-24

Tracks:

1. Blue And Wonder
2. Rainsquall
3. 22
4. Mud
5. Six Years
6. This Is Where
7. Gauzy Dress In The Sun
8. Daisychain
9. Desire
10. Up North
11. Surprise, AZ
12. Cradle To The Angel
13. The Last Ride
14. Settled Down
15. The Worst Way
16. Emma
17. Hutchinson

Amazon.com

Since its first release (in Europe in 1993), Richard Buckner's debut has stumbled in and out of print much as his characters drift in and out of love, and waver between hope and regret. This reissue is remastered, with five previously unavailable tracks appended. More direct and accessible than its artful, allusive follow-ups (1997's Devotion + Doubt and 1998's Since), Bloomed introduced a breathtakingly talented songwriter in the West Texas tradition of Townes Van Zandt and Butch Hancock (who guests here on harmonica). Throughout, Buckner's remarkable voice--weathered, big but not blunt, intimate--stands starkly against a rich backdrop of mandolin, fiddle, and steel. One quibble: the bonus tracks should've been issued on a separate disc. Recorded by Buckner alone in a separate session, sans band and producer, they're not Bloomed outtakes. But they're all fine songs, from "Emma," a spare lament inspired by the James Agee tome Let Us Now Praise Famous Men, to "Settled Down," a verbose ballad of intricate detail. --Anders Smith-Lindall

Customer Reviews:

Prince of Melancholy.......2005-05-18

Very occasionally I'm stunned by a first recorded effort. I'm thinking Tracy Chapman's debut, Morrison's,'Astral Weeks', Tori's,'Little Earthquakes', and Chris Whitely's,'Living With The Law'; big shifts in musical outlook yet within familiar surrounds. Buckner's,Bloomed' made a similar impact, though his take on experience was (and continues to be) that of the doomed lover. He seems determined to make this domain, teasing a range of depreciation, dereliction and rejection from his encounters. In 'Bloomed' he's on the road, moving on,moving on. The change of scenery offers a path out of difficult confrontations. is voice is a fabulous, emotional instrument and he rings nerve-tingling notes from it. The songs here are not uniformly great, not the strike rate of the aforementioned debuts. But the first five are right up there.'22' and 'Mud' will stop you in your tracks. The remainder are only medium good compared to such an auspicious beginning. His arrangements are countrified but are absolutely stand apart unique from the genre.

One of my favorites!.......2005-01-12

I have listened to this album continuously for the last three years. Richard Buckner's powerful vocals, which in person, in Paris, were even more spectacular and mesmorizing, control a passion and pain, unmatched by any other artist, period. The emotions envoked by his lyrics and wild guitar melodies cannot be compared.

I have turned all my friends and family on to Buckner, proudly. Mighty depressing, but his songs are there for you when you need it. One of my favorite all time albums.

My First Richard Buckner CD.......2003-12-28

Bloomed is my first Richard Buckner CD. I first heard him on the "Homeward Bound" country/folk collection CD (from Eddie Bauer). I fell in love with the track "Blue and Wonder", and knew I had to buy a whole CD of his soothing, mellow music. I am very pleased with "Bloomed" & find myself listening to it at least once a day. I'm not crazy about the track "22", but love all the rest. Buy this CD if you like mellow, acoustic, folksy tunes.

Honest, Genuine, and Intimate.......2003-08-22

This is a must have. The sparse guitar and vocal arrangements and the absolute intimacy of this album remind me of Nick Drake filtered through the Texas/Oklahoma dustbowl. Ever since I picked this one up, it's been a staple in my collection. Can't live without it. Strong bourbon-laced vocals back an honest confessional of breakups, homesickness, family, freedom, and spirituality.

I wish everyone knew about him!.......2003-01-09

I cannot say enough good things about Buckner's music. "Bloomed" is hands down, one of my favorite albums of all times. Very stripped down, very dark. He takes these complex characters & confines them to a 3 minute (give or take a few) song.
"This is Where" makes me glad to be a man. The sadness & hurt he sings about is so depressing, that you want to experience it. Kinda like passing a bad wreck. You gotta look. "Emma" is another gem. Learn him & love him!

Average customer rating: indispensable Heart + Soul Whaddaya Mean, This Guy Ain't From Texas? This knocked my socks off Unforgettable -- Rare, real, transcendent late-night music

Devotion + Doubt Richard Buckner Manufacturer: Fontana Mca ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Styles | Music General | Country | Styles | Music Outlaw & Progressive Country | Country | Styles | Music General | Traditional Country | Country | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music Traditional Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Alternative Folk | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Indie Music | Stores | Music Country Folk | Country | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Bloomed Since Richard Buckner The Hill Bloomed ASIN: B000002P4Z Release Date: 1997-03-11

Tracks:

1. Pull
2. Lil Wallet Picture
3. Ed's Song
4. Home
5. A Goodbye Rye
6. Fater
7. Kate Rose
8. 4AM
9. Roll
10. Polly Waltz
11. Figure
12. On Travelling
13. Song Of 27

Amazon.com

When he's on, Richard Buckner writes songs packed with little moments and giant emotions: the vow we couldn't keep, the look that says we're done, the snapshot that brings it crashing back. On Devotion & Doubt, he's on about half the time, using his remarkably expressive voice (he sounds like an unselfconscious Dwight Yoakam) in great roots-rock story songs like the rollicking "A Goodbye Rye" or the bleary "4 A.M." Too much of the rest comes off as more poetry than lyric, however, as Buckner places his compelling but foggy images in atmospheric soundscapes that regularly disguise as much as they reveal. --David Cantwell

Customer Reviews:

indispensable.......2006-08-21

Buckner's songs all come from a strange margin of consciousness that no other writer quite seems to have access to. His lyrics proceed like scenes from dreams--the meanings always almost catchable--and his voice curls around them like a sly, grizzled dancer revisiting the roadhouse of his youth. To my ears, Devotion + Doubt is the setting that makes his gifts shine brightest. It's as fresh to me today as it was when I tore off the plastic five years ago; I can't imagine doing without it.

Heart + Soul.......2005-08-10

Stunningly beautiful. Richard Buckner's voice is sad, longing and beautiful. I picked up the album (way back in '97) after hearing him perform the songs on a local radio station. I was mesmerized. At the time I had no clue about "Alt country", the words and his voice were heart and soul. Every time I listen to the album, I feel a mix of emotions. (From feelings of escapism, loneliness to falling in love)
Lyrically, he offers little stories that constantly keep the listener intrigued. This album and the Hill are the Buckner albums that I recommend.

Whaddaya Mean, This Guy Ain't From Texas?.......2005-07-08

I once read a review by Robert Christgau which made fun of "Li'l Wallet Picture" from this CD. For one brief moment, I knew what it felt like to be the Unabomber. [Caution: Views expressed, etc.] What business has Rolling Stone of publishing such
claptrap? True, Buckner's voice is an acquired taste. When he tries to push out the emotion he kinda sounds like he's, uh--using the facility. But getting past that, here are some of the most heartfelt, achy-breaky songs to ever come out of ... well, I would have said Texas but then I learned he was from California. Texas is his spiritual home at least. These songs are about heartbreak, memory, leavin', and drivin'. Lots of drivin'. Drivin' down misty highways at 4 a.m., past dead-man's curves, drivin' thru the backroads of lost love. If that ain't Texas, it oughta be. And if you don't git it--then what the heck you readin' this for?

This knocked my socks off.......2004-08-24

I never heard of Mr. Buckner until this summer. This is one of the most artictically uncompromising albums I've ever had the pleasure of hearing. Buckner captures all the longing and regret of a lost relationship, but he transcends his pain to give us a work that is ultimately uplifting and full of stength. I can't recommend this enough, and only hope that Richard Buckner finds the audience he deserves.

Unforgettable -- Rare, real, transcendent late-night music.......2004-08-18

This is one of the few pieces of authentic music created during my lifetime.

I cannot recommend this cd more highly. Not sickly-sweet or sacharine, with no air of marketing about him, yet full of the soul that leads one to reach for the volume and turn to "11" -- he has created here a small, resonant album as near perfection as any I have heard.

Buckner is a musician who will appeal to a small sub-set of Americans.hose who enjoy Tom Waits, Jane Siberry, or have read Charles Bukowski will probably hear this CD as if meeting a friend for the first time. I can think of perhaps 5 CDs in any genre that deserve 5 stars -- this is one.

Average customer rating: This was my gateway album! Not one note out of place... Some beautiful, haunting songs Commercials aren't so bad... Disappointed

Since Richard Buckner Manufacturer: Mca ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Styles | Music General | Country | Styles | Music Outlaw & Progressive Country | Country | Styles | Music General | Traditional Country | Country | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music Traditional Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Alternative Folk | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Indie Music | Stores | Music Country Folk | Country | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Devotion + Doubt Bloomed Richard Buckner The Hill Sky Blue Sky ASIN: B000009QQK Release Date: 1998-08-11

Tracks:

1. Believer
2. Faithful Shooter
3. Ariel Ramirez
4. Jewelbomb
5. The Ocean Cliff Clearing
6. Goner W/ Souvenir
7. Slept
8. Pico
9. Coursed
10. Lucky Buzz
11. 10-Day Room
12. Brief & Boundless
13. Raze
14. Hand @ The Hem
15. Boys, The Night Will Bury You
16. Once

Amazon.com's Best of 1998

With Since, California troubadour Richard Buckner has found a way to give his high-concentrate vocals and heavyhearted lyrical pensiveness a flattering dash of ebullience. But fear not, fans of such modern country-dread touchstones as Devotion + Doubt and Bloomed: this is still the man who can summon the essence of such disparate spirits as Nick Drake and the Louvin Brothers while remaining ever faithful to his own wounded soul. --Steven Stolder

Amazon.com essential recording

With his deep, gently blurred voice and wandering minor-chord songs, Buckner has created his most intensely beautiful and evocative album with Since. He's taken the spare sounds and textures of Devotion + Doubt, a record lauded by many but heard by few, and draped them behind a dense sonic scrim. In the past Buckner has relied on his voice to carry the hefty emotional freight of his lyrics of loss and desperation, but here, with a band that includes, in Buckner's words, "all the musicians I dreamed of recording with," he is free to liberate his baritone, and it slips and slides wonderfully throughout. There's an exuberance here; his subject matter hasn't changed, but he attacks it with an enthusiastic bombast. The songs are crammed right up against each other, and the lyrics are a cavalcade of paired alliteration ("horsey and the hopper", "brief and boundless", "twiced and townless"), oft-repeated favorite words (razed, faith, floor, rain, moon, li'l), and huge emotions hidden in small acts. It's a murky dream Buckner wanders; his opaque poetry suggests more than explains. It's hard to get a handle on exactly what is going on with such lines as "If I ever leave this 10-day room / I'll send my shallow ground to you." But the songs hit you--hard--just the same. --Tod Nelson

Customer Reviews:

This was my gateway album!.......2006-03-06

If it was not for this album I would have never been introduced to the beautiful world of Richard Buckner.

Not one note out of place..........2005-10-30

I must disagree with those who feel this is an album of unfinisheed songs. In fact, I think this is Buckner's strongest work: one song flows seamlessly to the next, and not one note is out of place. The production on this album was a revalation for me. The textures of guitars, pedal steel, cello, and everything else, blend together to create something which is not quite country, but not quite pop. It's wonderfully unconventional, yet not in the way bands like Wilco try to be. Buckner is what he is, and people either seem to love it or not. I'm in the former category. True,"Believer" was a bit jarring the first time I heard it, but I had only one minute and seventeen seconds to think about that before a gorgeous guitar solo distracted me. Having made it through this jagged gate, I was then pulled into the warm house that is "Faithful Shooter", and from there it's smooth sailing through 15 of the most unique and enticing tracks in alt-country. I don't always know exactly what Buckner is talking about, but I never understood the lyrics of early R.E.M either, and that never bothered me. I catch words and phrases and assemble my own associations, all the while pulled along by a landscape of perfectly placed instrumentation. The cover image is quite appropriate, as there is a theme both of relationships flaring and then extinguishing, as well as a chain of imagery involving fire, as in "Jewelbomb": "Did you let your angel burn out/ like a pipeload under a flame?" Which brings me to another delightfully unique Bucknerian trait- much like Willie Nelson, Buckner has developed his own unique phrasing (not that he sounds anything like Willie). Nelson was often ridiculed for his failure to sing like everyone else, and didn't get to record his own songs for a long time because of it. Buckner's style may not suit everybody, but I could listen to him sing the alphabet with pleasure. So while some of you may find this album deficient, I hope prospective buyers won't let others decide their musical tastes for them. I can listen to this album any time and feel better; I never get tired of it, and if my ipod malfunctioned and could only hold 10 CDs worth of music, this would definitely be one of them. Give it a chance, and it just might become one of your favorites too.

Some beautiful, haunting songs.......2005-08-19

Like another reviewer I first heard Buckner on a VW commercial. I searched out the song and bought this CD that contained "Ariel Ramirez", one of the most haunting songs I have ever heard. I also love "Boys, the Night Will Bury You". The rest of the CD is solid, but unspectacular. The spare arrangements and beautiful, melancholy lyrics are strong points for me. His voice takes some getting used to. It is plaintive and earnest, but also lacks range. When he keeps it under control, it works really well with the style and content of the songs. When he tries to stretch it , it can be hard to keep listening. Overall, I like this CD but I agree with another review that some of the songs sound unfinished.

Commercials aren't so bad..........2005-02-26

I'm ashamed to admit it, but I was turned onto Buckner while staring mindlessly at my TV. A commercial came on peddling an SUV, which featured a snippet from Ariel Ramirez.
I got on the internet, found Buckner in my search through the car maker's advertisement sites, and promptly ordered the CD.

It's hard to describe the music - it's simple and hauntingly beautiful, and it just gets better each and everytime I listen to it.

Thank you, Richard. What a wonderful gift you have.

Disappointed.......2003-01-25

Have given numerous listens and I guess Bruckner, at least this one...Since, just doesn't do it for me as a whole.

Average customer rating: Buckner has never been better Devotion with no doubt the best Buckner buckner at his naked best

Richard Buckner Richard Buckner Manufacturer: Overcoat Recordings ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Styles | Music General | Country | Styles | Music Outlaw & Progressive Country | Country | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music Alternative Folk | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Indie Music | Stores | Music Country Folk | Country | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Devotion + Doubt Bloomed Since The Hill Sir Dark Invader Vs The Fanglord ASIN: B00007L7DT Release Date: 2003-01-21

Tracks:

1. On Traveling
2. Boys, The Night Will Bury You
3. Ed's Song
4. A Goodbye Rye
5. Home
6. Song of 27
7. Roll
8. Pull
9. Figure
10. Jewelbomb
11. Lil Wallet Picture

Amazon.com

Originally sold as an exclusive to fans at his live shows, this self-titled, self-produced album showcases Richard Buckner in a most minimalist, intimate light. And to many, this is just the way the singer-songwriter ought to be heard. Though these 11 songs appear in more finished renditions on Buckner's other albums, here--played with just acoustic guitar and the singer's warbly voice--they become achingly eloquent. Stripped free of the rock arrangement found on Since, "Jewelbomb" becomes a stark and haunting ballad (and this album's highlight). Other tracks do the same, with equally rewarding results. And though this effort only showcases one aspect of Buckner's talents (the side of this singer that continues to draw comparisons to Townes Van Zandt and Nick Drake), it's a fascinating portrait of a brilliant songwriter in the midst of the creative process, putting freshly penned songs to tape. --Jason Verlinde

Customer Reviews:

Buckner has never been better.......2006-06-10

I began my appreciation for Richard Buckner rather recently. My wife had been talking about how much she had enjoyed seeing him perform several years back, so I bought her Dents and Shells upon it's release. Unfortunately for her, she didn't get to listen to it much, because I borrowed it for a listen and reluctantly gave it back after falling for the wonderful tone with with Richard presents his music. After quickly grabbing up the rest of Buckner's works, this album became an immediate standout.

If you want to whittle down the essence of Richard Buckner to the truest of form, this is the album for you. I say that not just in the sense that it is acoustic versions of some of his best songs, but because it's not that simple. There's something about the spirit and honesty that's recorded here that transcends your usual acoustic foray. While Buckner has been fortunate to have had excellent production throughout all of his career, nothing captures the personal touch and meaning in these songs more than hearing Richard and his guitar with these songs in the original beauty with which they were originally written.

Some singer/songwriters need elaborate production to provide depth to their songs, and while it has certainly served Richard well on other albums, this album proves that he is best without it. If you've ever been touched by any of Richard Buckner's work, you owe it to yourself to discover this album, and with it, the true spirit of his music.

Devotion with no doubt the best Buckner.......2003-03-14

This is the kind of music that keeps you captivated from beginning to end. Richard's lyrics are hypnotic. His guitar work is like nothing I have ever heard before. I was already a devout fan listening to Richard's other CDs-- Bloomed, Devotion + Doubt, The Hill, and loved each one in separate and unique ways. But, I was not ready for this raw performance. He sings these songs in a more consise way than the more arranged versions, but yet there is something so much more intimate listening to just Richard with his guitar. It complements my Buckner collection. Now it's time to get aquainted with Impasse, his lastest installment.

buckner at his naked best.......2003-01-24

The songs here will be quite familiar to fans of Buckner's "Devotion + Doubt" and "Since"; all of them appeared on those two albums in different form. It's remarkable, however, to hear the contrast in the different versions of the same songs. All of the tracks on this appropriately self-titled disc (recorded in 1996) are stripped down to acoustic guitar and vocals. As such, these recordings are a perfect expression of the melancholy troubadour spirit that animates Buckner's songwriting.

What is remarkable about this album is how it seems that nothing stands between the song and the listener on these recordings. Buckner's voice is right there, and his guitar playing is dynamic; rarely do you hear an acoustic guitar generate such contrasts between picking and strumming, between wispy lilting and forceful crashing. The absence of a backing band allows him to follow his own varied pace on each song. Listening to this album, you can hear "Goodbye Rye" as a strained but intense anthem and "Jewelbomb" as a mournful ballad, not as the less subtle rockers that they are on Buckner's MCA recordings. On the short story-ish "Boys, the Night Will Bury You," the vocal delivery is less hurried, giving the song a spookier tone. Even the poignancy of "Lil Wallet Picture" seems somehow more pronounced. Buckner has achieved the difficult feat of making an all-acoustic recording interesting, engaging. You wonder if this was the way he originally wanted these songs to be released seven years ago.

This album is sure to be compared to Springsteen's "Nebraska." Besides the sparse arrangements, both albums share the same raw intensity. Like the tracks on "Nebraska," the tracks on "Richard Buckner" could have been demos, but really they sound too good for that. Beyond these considerations, however, Buckner's impressionistic lyrics and his ragged but rich baritone bear little resemblance to Springsteen's work. Both are great albums, though, and deserve an honored place in any singer-songwriter, rock'n'roll, or alt-country fan's collection.

Average customer rating: a shudder of piety Winesburg, Ohio - the album version a truly original work of Americana I'm not going to take it Spoon River, wider than a mile, I'm crossing you in style...

The Hill Richard Buckner Manufacturer: Overcoat Recordings ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Styles | Music General | Country | Styles | Music Contemporary | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music Alternative Folk | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Bloomed Richard Buckner Devotion + Doubt Since Sir Dark Invader Vs The Fanglord ASIN: B00004Y6U1 Release Date: 2000-10-03

Tracks:

1. The Hill

Amazon.com's Best of 2000

This is a strange, wholly original album, and it places Richard Buckner at the vanguard of, well, something, and it's entirely Buckner-esque. On The Hill Buckner sets to music passages from poet Edgar Lee Master's Spoon River Anthology. On previous outings his lyrics were as powerfully rendered as poetry, so at first it seems odd that he would rely on another's words. But the way Buckner bites, chews, and swallows the round vowels and hard consonant stops of Master's Midwest narratives, the voices resonate with fresh import. The music is powerfully original as well. Buckner's arrangements are organic to the voices and poems. The music clangs and shudders like an old jalopy then settles into a hushed wind-like whisper, Buckner's deep voice finding melody in the ebb and flow of the language. Even stranger is that The Hill is one continuous track--there are sections and movements and suites and passages, but it all flows like one continuous story. Few albums are this complex, evocative, and stunning. The Hill is Buckner's tour de force. --Tod Nelson

Amazon.com

Courageous, threatening, and often splendid in its brooding poetry, The Hill is like no record you've ever heard. Buckner fuses 18 poems from Edgar Lee Masters's Spoon River Anthology--an early 20th-century collection based on the tortured memories of the dead of a fictional Illinois town--into one long, spiraling descent into the dark corners of the human condition. There's anguish, violence, betrayal, and a lot of death here, but also some riveting, savagely original music. Buckner orchestrates his droning guitars and phantasmal keyboards with Calexico's bass, cello, and percussion. Like the themes, the music is somber but somehow opulent and graceful, often profoundly spiritual. Through it all Buckner's hoarse, glowering moan redeems these lost hunters, rounders, wives, and mothers. "In death therefore I am avenged," Buckner wails in the a cappella "Ollie McGee." In this demanding, hieratic epic, so too is Richard Buckner. --Roy Kasten

Customer Reviews:

a shudder of piety.......2006-10-10

When I listen to this album I feel a shudder of piety. The empathy here is a wonder. A supreme achievement. A work of art as humane as Vittorio De Sica's 'The Bicycle Thief' and Van Gogh's renderings of shoes.

Winesburg, Ohio - the album version.......2006-08-30

One of Buckner's finest works, this album reminds me a lot of the classic American novel Winesburg, Ohio by Sherwood Anderson, had it been set to music. I'm guessing Edgar Lee Master's poetry (which the lyrics of this album are taken from) was heavily influenced by Anderson's prose. Buckner, along with the help of Burns and Convertino of Calexico fame, does an amazing job of creating the perfect, minimal, haunting musical backdrop for these tales of the secret lives of folks in Middle America. A true American musical masterpiece. I do, however, wish Buckner would have separated the songs into tracks instead of making the entire album one track. I get it - you want people to listen to it in order, and that makes sense. But sometimes, I just want to hear one specific song, and it feels a bit pretentious of Buckner to not allow me to do that.

a truly original work of Americana.......2006-05-12

I have to admit, I had my doubts. Prior to the release of the album I had read Spoon River Anthology and thought it clever enough for early 20th century poetry. I never would have guessed Richard Buckner could have made it so listenable. Upon listening to "The Hill" you realize the words of Edgar Lee Masters were simply made for Richard Buckner to sing. All of those dark gothic tales fit perfectly with his style. This is the ideal soundtrack for an evening alone with all of the lights turned down, a glass of bourbon on the rocks, and a contemplative state of mind. It's like being able to peer behind the sunny veneer of "The Waltons" and see the seamy side of American life during that much-romanticized time. If you're a fan of Buckner, then you need this one. Yeah, the fact that it's just one long track is rather inconvenient, but it's worth an entire listen everytime you put it on. My only complaint is that it isn't longer.

I'm not going to take it.......2005-07-21

A one-track CD forcing me to listen to all or nothing? Not in my collection! I bought this recording years ago and listened to it once. I just pulled it out again and whisked it into the trash along with some of my CDs that have 87 bonus tracks (each being one second of silence). The quality of the music? Who cares! I would turn OK Computer or Dark Side of the Moon into coasters if they were programmed with 1 track or 99.

Spoon River, wider than a mile, I'm crossing you in style..........2005-05-26

My experience with "The Hill" comes in a very interesting way. "Spoon River Anthology" was made into a play after it was written as a book, and I happened to be cast into a production of it. We used some music from this album in our show - especially the first number. The entire album reflects the mood of "Spoon River" - incredibly somber and morbid, but still free and flowing. That's why I like how it's all one track...it keeps it moving. Anyway, from a dramatic perspective, "The Hill" is excellent!

Average customer rating: Blew me away again A Diamond in the rough A rare, great artist -- a short, bland album Every song, a gem. Stunning musical honesty

Dents and Shells Richard Buckner Manufacturer: Merge Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Styles | Music General | Country | Styles | Music Outlaw & Progressive Country | Country | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music Alternative Folk | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Indie Music | Stores | Music Country Folk | Country | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Devotion + Doubt Since Richard Buckner Bloomed The Hill ASIN: B0002ZYDQA Release Date: 2004-10-12

Tracks:

1. A Chance Counsel
2. Firsts
3. Invitation
4. Straight
5. Her
6. Charmers
7. Fuse
8. Rafters
9. Picture Day
10. As The Waves Will Always Roll

Amazon.com

With his sixth studio album, the peripatetic songwriter sweetens his sound and his signature evocations of loss, memory, and melancholy. "As a child once," he sings with a vulnerability he's rarely shown, "I almost marked it all; it isn't gone." What he has marked and preserved is a devotion to his forever doubting soul (the record, like 2002's Impasse, was born out of a failed second marriage), to the inexhaustible power of language and subtle sonic invention. With pedal steel, accordion, and mostly acoustic guitars, the mood recalls his most accessible album, Bloomed, but the song structures flash and dart like the whirling sparklers of youth. And behind the implacable acoustic drone, the plangent melodies, the taut drumming (by ex-Butthole Surfer King Coffey), the brimstone lyricism, and his murmured growl, Buckner seems to smile at the wonder of life, love, and imagination. --Roy Kasten

Album Description

Buckner is one of the most heartfelt and honest songwriters you'll ever hear, and his first release on Merge (and sixth full-length) is a departure of sorts for this modern day troubadour. "Dents And Shells" adds some powerful elements with a few full band tracks framing Buckner's muscular lyrics and powerful voice. Following the storytelling and folk traditions of artists as diverse as Townes Van Zandt, Leonard Cohen, Nick Drake, and Richard Thompson, Buckner's latest approach will have fans listening closely.

Customer Reviews:

Blew me away again.......2007-03-01

Having just discovered Richard Buckner a month ago and fallen head over heels for Meadow and Devotion + Doubt, i gave Dents and Shells a try, thinking this would either give me enough of him, or that it would cement my conviction that Buckner is (musically, lyrically, mysteriously) God. Happily, i assert the latter self-evident (or evident to my self) truth. Dents and Shells is my new favorite. Richard is beyond alt-country or country-rock, or perfectly-arranged and -executed pop songs here. He goes places, musically, i have never been, and man, where that voice leads, i will follow.

A Diamond in the rough.......2005-08-17

This is my first experience with Buckner's music. The exceptional drumming drives the propulsive, melodic, acoustic-based sound. These songs present themselves as though you were sampling them on Amazon, where the 30 second bite could start anywhere in the song-but that's not a bad thing. My seven-year-old son can get right to this music & this CD has been in my car for weeks. These songs breathe and offer space to place you within these fragmented narratives that Buckner sings in an earnest and mildly inflective drone. To my ears the "groove" recalls the best work of 10,000 Maniacs, minus the piano. But this is wholly original music and Buckner sells it. There's lots of space in his lyrics for the listener to dream. The songs are less stories than impressions and phases used to convey losses and longings. The mediations are the product of a narrator who appears to spend much of his time in his own head. Writers of this type tend to have long careers, as they never run out of material. Based on this fine CD I'll be looking to his back catalogue and buying more music.

A rare, great artist -- a short, bland album.......2005-07-13

First, know that I would never disparage this artist -- Richard Buckner's "Devotion + Doubt" is an all-time favorite, and there are few artists of his authenticity and poetic stature around. But this half-hour of bland songs just doesn't stand up. They sound like unreleased material from previous sessions, without the spark and depth of his previous work. I'll be first in line to buy his next release, and will continue to catch him live every time he plays locally, but I can only recommend this CD to truly passionate fans.

For the uninitiated (and lucky You!), try "Since" or "Devotion + Doubt". You will not be disappointed.

Every song, a gem........2005-06-22

I'd never heard of Richard Buckner until our new public radio station starting playing "A Chance Counsel". In anticipation of a 12-hour cross-country drive, I bought several new albums, but Dents and Shells was the one we all wanted to hear again and again.
There is an easy, layered depth to the songwriting and lyrics, and great playing-the musicians sound like they've been working together for a long time. I was mildly surprised to find this album in the country section at the record store, a section that is less familiar to me. The music definitely feels `authentic', as Old-Time music can at its best.
This is just an all around great album.

Stunning musical honesty.......2004-10-29

Even after just a few listens to this record, every song stands out as being very emotional and honest, along with incredible musicianship. Personally, I like the return of the pedal steel to Buckners music, and "Dents and shells" is a step up from "Impasse", in which I found good but a little drab. Also, there is more of a full band feel to this album...and that is good too. The voice, the lyrics, and the feel to this album is very special, and this could be his best ever!

Average customer rating: for completists only One of the most well-crafted albums I've ever heard Buckner on Rawk Truly, R.B has reached an Impasse IMPASSE VS. THE REST

Impasse Richard Buckner Manufacturer: Overcoat Recordings ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Indie Rock | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Styles | Music General | Country | Styles | Music Contemporary | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music Alternative Folk | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Bloomed Devotion + Doubt Richard Buckner The Hill Since ASIN: B00006L3QO Release Date: 2002-10-08

Tracks:

1. Grace-I'd-Said-I'd-Known
2. Born Into Giving It Up
3. Hoping Wishers Never Lose
4. Loaded @ The Wrong Door
5. (A Year Ahead)...& A Light
6. Put On What You Wanna
7. A Shift
8. ...& The Clouds've Lied
9. Stumble Down
10. Count Me In On This One
11. Dusty From The Talk
12. Were You Tried & Not As Tough
13. Impasse
14. I Know What I Knew
15. Stutterstep

Amazon.com

On this restless troubadour's previous releases, his dour monotone and spare arrangements did little to alleviate the bleakness of his literary-minded lyrics. While Richard Buckner hasn't (and shouldn't) turn into Mr. Joyboy, it's an ear-opening revelation to hear his songs in the warmer and more sonically expansive settings of this self-produced, home-studio recording. With only the backing of his wife, Penny Jo Buckner, on drums, he plainly had no concern about time or budget as he layered his first collection of original material in four years with celesta-like bells and keyboard electronics that occasionally evoke the incongruous influence of '80s synth-pop. "Trust me, I know where I am," he sings in "Born into Giving It Up." Highlights ranging from the luminous balladry of "Put On What You Wanna" to the spaghetti-Western twang of "Stumble Down," indicate that the listener should take him on faith. No, Buckner hasn't gone all "new romantic" on us, but who knew that the bard of existential despair had this much Phil Spector in him? --Don McLeese

Customer Reviews:

for completists only.......2006-05-12

The whole "song titles that also happend to be first line of every song" should have been a clue that Richard Buckner didn't really put the same effort into this album as he has in the past...or maybe he was emulating Emily Dickenson, I don't know. What I can tell you is that out of all of my Richard Buckner albums, this is the one that I listen to the least. That being said, even subpar Richard Buckner is still pretty darn good. Much of what we expect from him is still here: the late night initimate hushed vocal delivery, the cryptic lyrics, and clean & crisp production. What's not here are any memorable tunes. There's a quality of sameness that kind of runs through the whole album that you don't hear with his best albums like "Devotion & Doubt" and "Bloomed". It's not a bad album, but unless you've already purchased the aforementioned pair, there's no need to buy this one.

One of the most well-crafted albums I've ever heard.......2005-12-15

Impasse is one of those rare collections which makes me say "That's my favorite song on this album. No, wait. THAT'S my favorite." Its chronology is so well composed I find it sinful to even contemplate shuffling the tracks. The underlying narrative is haunting, willful. In short, I find it mesmerizing.

Buckner on Rawk.......2004-10-25

This is the Buckner album that rocks without rocking. It's hard to explain. Drums are involed, organ, bass, electric guitar and the likes too. But nothing really ever gets loud but it somehow just rocks. The lyrics are pretty amazing if you like to actually read them. If you're looking for trite cliches, don't go here. Granted, Richard's voice is take it or leave it, but on this record, it's really hard for anyone to say no. Loaded is probably my favorite song on the record. But the song "Dusted From The Top" has this point at the climax where Richard's voice cracks almost as if he started crying while he was recording it. It's one of those few moments in recording when the singer suddenly becomes totally human...not just a figure. Personally, I like Eliot Smith, but Buckner is superior to me. This record explains why.

Truly, R.B has reached an Impasse.......2003-07-26

Sad enough i think our sad sack buckner has reached an impasse. That little flame has definetly sputtered into mediocrisy. There is simply too much i could criticize on this release. This is buckner's pop record, and imho, it doesn't even stand up to his previous releases, except the pompous little nursery rhyme adaptation of the spoon river anthology. Don't even get me started, but even books have chapters! None the less, i still believe in this artist, and after his recent divorce his best may be yet to come...

IMPASSE VS. THE REST.......2003-04-11

Quite good. Buckner is my favorite, and nobody knows who this fellow is. I'm at a loss for why this is. Impasse is, in my eyes, the easiest to listen to of his work, and just different enough to be neccessary for the collection. I gotta see this guy live... Oh yeah, buy the CD, you won't regret it. Then make your friends buy it.

Average customer rating: Good, if you're into that kind of thing.

Sir Dark Invader Vs The Fanglord Richard Buckner & Jon Langford Manufacturer: Buried Treasure Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Styles | Music General | Country | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music General | Country | Indie Music | Stores | Music Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Indie Music | Stores | Music General | Rock | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: One Day In Chicago Gold Brick Richard Buckner Bloomed The Boxing Mirror ASIN: B0009VS3NQ Release Date: 2005-05-31

Tracks:

1. Rolling Of The Eyes
2. Nothing To Show
3. Sweet Anybody
4. From Attic To Basement
5. Torn Apart
6. Stayed
7. The Inca Princess
8. No Tears Tonight
9. Do You Wanna Go Somewhere?

Album Description

Having studiously avoided each other for most of the 90s these two large predators of the underground rock scene made a simple choice between escalating hostilities spiraling inevitably into mutual annihilation and the prospect of a relaxing week getting to know each other round at Sally Timms' apartment with a bunch of cool looking antique mikes and a steam powered pro-tools system.

The resulting recording session saw Sir Dickie and Fanglord swapping instruments, lyrics and outer garments to produce a collection of songs that shift the goalposts and subvert all the neat genre boundaries that have differentiated their sorry careers in the past. Sir Dark Invader Vs. The Fanglord is full of haunting folkish melodies and intermittent bursts of noisy art rock. Assistance is meted out by Pine Valley Cosmonaut John Rice (on guitar & mandolin) and Steve Goulding on occasional drum-kit.

Jon Langford

Customer Reviews:

Good, if you're into that kind of thing........2007-01-03

A little rough around the edges, but a good CD nonetheless. It was catchy and well-produced. Nothing much else to say. I like Buckner's "Dents & Shells" more.

Average customer rating:

All in Good Time: The Second DejaDisc Sampler Various Artists Manufacturer: Dejadisc ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Styles | Music General | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music All Bargain Titles | Alternative General | Alternative Rock | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Oldies | Pop | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music ASIN: B000006LZC Release Date: 1996-09-03

Tracks:

1. Juke Joint Jumping - Wayne Hancock
2. Rainsquall - Richard Buckner
3. Selling the Gold - Elliott Murphy
4. What Are You Doing Tonight - Rainravens
5. Valentine (Sober All Day) - Steeplejack
6. Blue Eyed Men - Lisa Mednick
7. Wanna Rock & Roll - Ray Wylie Hubbard
8. Los Angeles - Michael Hall
9. Feel It - Wannabes
10. Thing About You - Michael Fracasso
11. Mexico - Sarah Elizabeth Campbell
12. Rolling Valentine - Michael Elwood, Beth Galiger
13. You're Gonna Chase Love Away - Elliott Murphy
14. Pastures of Plenty - Christine Albert
15. Thunderstorms and Neon Signs - Wayne Hancock
16. Due South - David Lewis
17. Never Meet Again - Rainravens
18. Gauzy Dress in the Sun - Richard Buckner
19. Portales - Ray Wylie Hubbard

Music Album:

1. Right for the Time
2. Rio Bravo & Other Movie and TV Themes [Import]
3. Rowan Brothers [Import]
4. Say No More
5. Sick World, Happy Guy
6. Sixwire [Enhanced]
7. So Long of a Journey: Live at the Boulder Theater [Live]
8. Songs for Tsunami Relief: Austin to South Asia [Limited Edition] [Live]
9. Square Dance Level 2 [Live]
10. Super Hits [Original recording remastered]

Music Album