Marshall Crenshaw's first three records, though each with their own distinct personality, were an irresistible combination of masterful pop and vibrant, timeless rock & roll. His fourth effort, Mary Jean & 9 Others, has many of these same ingredients, while at the same time lacking the impact of its predecessors. And though there isn't really a bad cut here, there isn't much that would make you think of Crenshaw as much more than a craftsman. Even the best of the originals, including the title track and "Somebody Crying," seem to lumber along, never really delivering on their promise. This may be partially due to Don Dixon's production that, though not out of place with Crenshaw's material, lacks the freshness of the first album, the allure and depth of Field Day, and the spirit of Downtown. Overall, it's the beautiful closer, "They Never Will Know," and Peter Case's "Steel Strings" that are most successful in this setting. Like the rest of Crenshaw's mid-'80s, early-'90s catalog, Mary Jean is difficult to find, but of this period, Downtown, which is also on Warner Bros., and Life's Too Short, his only release for MCA, are preferred. -AMG
If you like "Mary Jean & 9 Others "get it here!
Marshall Crenshaw - Mary Jean & 9 Others - 1987/rs
or
Marshall Crenshaw - Mary Jean & 9 Others - 1987/badongo
10 comments:
certainly agree with the reviews for this album, however "This Is Easy" is a great tune. Thanks for posting!
Macfamily
Thanks Curty Ray. You came through as usual. One more request and I'll leave you alone. This one's a toughie. How about The Elvis Brothers Now Dig This. I would kill for this.
Curty Ray....I have the "Elvis Brothers - Now Dig This" album requested if you don't. Let me know if you want me to upload it and send you the link. Keep up the great work! Thanks.
Thanks a lot. I had completely forgotten about this album...haven't heard it in 20 years.
The Bandongo link has been unavailable for about a week. Any chance of re-upping to fix the Badongo file?
Badongo link has been updated! Thanks for letting me know
Thank you for this! I used to have this on vinyl and it disappeared -- great to have it back again!
--Tracy
Thanks for this. Had it on cassette at one time and haven't listened to this album in awhile.
The cover of Grant Hart's 2541 was unexpected and wonderful. Thanks. Great posts.
Thanks for this post! I have it on vinyl but haven't heard it in over two decades! Keep up the great work.
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