ABSOLUTELY LIVE-CHRISTINE LAVIN

CHRISTINE LAVIN
ABSOLUTELY LIVE – 1981 – REISSUED 2005
http://www.christinelavin.com/index.php?page=cds&category=01–Solo&from=12&display=143
Recorded before her first studio album, Christine Lavin stuns right out of the gate. Alternately lilting and sad & wickedly humorous this CD is rarely out of arms reach in the House Of WS. Recorded in the same studio as “The Boxer” in front of a rapt audience, Christine is in top form. Expertly picking an acoustic guitar while leading a small band, her voice sends chills up my spine every time I hear her. Charming and cheerful with the occasion growl added for emphasis, Christine’s tone is very conversational and relaxed; She’s singing TO you, not AT you.

Alternating between originals, choice covers, and banter with the crowd, there’s not a wasted moment throughout 22 tracks. “Three Months To Live” tackles mortality in the silliest way possible, while “Amoeba Hop” mixes science and humor perfectly. “Summer Weddings” shifts the mood from silly to somber for a few minutes before “Add Me To The List” brings a healthy dose of attitude back to the proceedings.”The Bitter End” is confessional songwriting at it’s finest, hard as hell to take but impossible to not identify with. “I’m Mad” is a no-holds barred attack on a two timing lover that should be required listening for every male between 18 and 80. The cover of “Downtown” that follows is stunning; Not so much a reworking as a re-imagining, it leaves me speechless every time I hear it.

“Getting’ Used To Leaving'” is a great song in an odd spot. Placed halfway through the album, it has a curious effect; The show is only half over and Christine is clearly having the time of her life, but she is fully aware that the clock is ticking. The mood doesn’t stay somber long, though. “The Ballad Of Doris and Edmund” is hilarious but given the events of 9/11 20 years later the song takes on a bizarre twist Christine could never have imagined. “Air Conditioner” clearly lays out the conditions and expectations for a potential suitor; Guys, box fans just don’t cut it.”If I Should Call You” cuts really deep; More than a few tears have been shed in the House Of WS over this track, no joke. After the bitter resignation of “If I Should Call You”, Christine thankfully sends us out the door laughing with “Shikses, Chicken Nuggets, and Plumpettes” and “I’ve Been Living On Milk And Cookies Since You’ve Been Gone”.

This is a reworked version of the original LP with two bonus songs (the link to buy the CD is included above). Buy two! I command thee!
WS