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Let’s face it, if you rustle up George Harrison, Roy Orbison, Bob Dylan, Tom Petty, and ELO’s Jeff Lynne and put them together in a band that each member fronts equally, it’s impossible to go wrong. This two-disc set is packed with synergistic and diverse talent. If rock and roll were ice cream, the listening experience here could be compared to climbing behind the counter at a Häagen Dazs shop and being given free reign of the goods.
It opens with “Handle With Care.” If you’re a child of the 80s, this one will definitely bring you back. Orbison’s vocals on the bridge are stellar and the chorus has some gorgeous harmonies. “Dirty World” is upbeat and danceable featuring Dylan’s signature vocals. And there’s no time to catch your breath before “Rattled” takes over. This one has swing undertones, a good strong bass line and some kickin’ guitar stylings. “Last Night” is another catchy, danceable track with Petty on vocals. Next Orbison takes the stage with “Not Alone Any More.” There are some nice doo-wop undertones on this one.
“End of the Line” is energetic with wise lyrics and an amazing hook. The first disc includes two previously unreleased bonus tracks; “Maxine” with Dylan on vocals and “Like a Ship,” which is just one great fantastic jam.
I didn’t find the second disc quite as dynamic. Still it’s a solid listen with more of a rockabilly influence. “Inside Out” has a unique combination of vocals and a distinctive Beatles sound. “If You Belonged to Me” is Bob Dylan’s baby. This one has some very nice harp work reminiscent of “Just Like a Woman.” “7 Deadly Sins” is another doo-wop style number with a colorful vocal mix.
This vibrant collaboration is all-purpose, crowd-pleasing music, packed with remarkable talent and a unique texture of sound.
