Sometimes, musical pairings that seem destined to be brilliant exceed all expectations, creating something truly special. The collaboration between acclaimed singer-songwriter John Hiatt and the virtuosic Jerry Douglas Band is one such instance. Remarkably, despite their seemingly organic musical connection, Leftover Feelings marks their first studio recording together. John Hiatt stands as a true icon in American music, and Jerry Douglas is equally deserving of such high praise. For those familiar with their individual artistry, and seeking insightful music reviews, this collaboration is undoubtedly something to explore.
Leftover Feelings, the album born from this exciting partnership and released via New West Records, faced pandemic-related delays, adding to the anticipation for its release. Recorded in the legendary RCA Studio B, a space steeped in musical history where Elvis Presley and countless other legends have recorded, the album undoubtedly benefited from the studio’s inspiring atmosphere. This historic setting seems to have fueled Hiatt and Douglas to bring their absolute best to the project.
The album bursts into life with “Long Black Electric Cadillac,” a vibrant track showcasing Hiatt’s signature gravelly vocals and Douglas’s dynamic dobro playing. “Mississippi Phone Booth” emerges as a standout track, deeply evocative and richly textured. The interplay between guitars and dobro creates an almost palpable sense of Southern heat and atmosphere. This song perfectly encapsulates the brilliance of both John Hiatt’s songwriting and the Jerry Douglas Band’s exceptional musicianship, highlighting why they are held in such high esteem within the Americana music scene.
A delightful surprise on the album is the reimagining of Hiatt’s classic “All the Lilacs in Ohio,” originally from The Tiki Bar is Open. While the original Goners version is beloved, this new rendition offers a fresh perspective. Hiatt’s voice, perhaps a touch more weathered now, blends beautifully with the Jerry Douglas Band’s instrumentation. The combination of violin, guitar, and dobro creates a rich and joyful soundscape, making it a track that demands repeated listens and conjures images of the musicians enjoying themselves in the studio. This track underscores John Hiatt’s enduring songwriting talent and his ability to reinvent his work.
“I’m in Asheville” provides a moment of quiet reflection, a truly beautiful and absorbing piece that commands the listener’s full attention. In stark contrast, “Light of the Burning Sun” is emotionally raw and profoundly moving. The song delves into the tragic suicide of Hiatt’s older brother when John was just eleven years old. It explores the complex emotions of grief, loss, and the enduring impact of such a traumatic event across a lifetime. This deeply personal song serves as a poignant reminder of shared human experiences with tragedy and resilience, revealing the depth and vulnerability in John Hiatt’s songwriting.
The success of Leftover Feelings leaves one yearning for more collaborations between John Hiatt and the Jerry Douglas Band. Hiatt’s vocal style harmonizes seamlessly with the band’s instrumental approach, suggesting exciting possibilities for future musical explorations. After a remarkable 47 years since his debut solo release on Epic Records, John Hiatt continues to create compelling and meaningful music. Leftover Feelings is a testament to his enduring artistry and a captivating album to savor, leaving fans eagerly anticipating what both John Hiatt and Jerry Douglas will create next.
https://www.johnhiatt.com/john-hiatt-with-the-jerry-douglas-band-leftover-feelings
