Review of James McMurtry’s latest album “The Black Dog and the Wandering Boy”
s for itself. The timing for McMurtry to unveil a song like “Annie” about post-9/11 hysteria couldn’t be better, as he delves into the lessons we failed to learn from that tragic event. McMurtry isn’t afraid to get political in his music, but he does so in a nuanced way that challenges listeners to think critically, even if they may not agree with him.
In songs like “Sons of the Second Sons,” McMurtry explores the generational roots of poverty and the desperate pursuit of leadership out of it, rather than simply rebuking the Southern identity. His ability to stimulate the brain and offer multiple perspectives through his storytelling sets him apart as a true master of the craft.
“Pinocchio in Vegas” may seem like a whimsical tale at first glance, but it speaks volumes about the loss of vital information we experience when our parents pass away. This multi-layered approach to songwriting has earned McMurtry the respect of his peers and solidified his position at the top of the songwriting pantheon.
The Black Dog and the Wandering Boy is a classic old-school alt-country album with roots and rock influences, produced by Don Dixon, who worked with McMurtry on his third album in 1995. The album features talented musicians like Sarah Jarosz, Charlie Sexton, Bonnie Whitmore, and Bukka Allen, along with McMurtry’s skilled backing band.
Growing up, McMurtry had encounters with counterculture icon Ken Kesey and his Merry Pranksters, who even sketched a picture of the young musician that became the cover art for the new album. The title track, inspired by McMurtry’s father’s experiences with dementia, reflects the deep and personal themes that run through McMurtry’s music.
While it may be interesting to speculate about who the next James McMurtry will be, for now, we are fortunate to have the man himself still creating music. As long as he continues to release albums like The Black Dog and the Wandering Boy, his era will endure. This album is a testament to McMurtry’s enduring talent and his ability to captivate listeners with his poignant storytelling and thought-provoking lyrics.