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The Dylan Project

Artist: Steve Gibbons
Rating:
Release Date: 1998
Genre: Rock

Review

Going back to the release of his first couple of albums, artists have been mining the catalog of Bob Dylan for material with varied results. It's been rocked up, toned down, commercialized, dramatized, treated venerably, literally, and playfully. With The Dylan Project, British rocker Steve Gibbons tackles 14 Dylan tunes (along with one new original which pays homage) ranging in date from 1962's "When the Ship Comes In" (released January 1964 on The Times They Are A-Changin') to "Ring Them Bells" from Oh Mercy (1989). Unlike many who have attempted a similar endeavor, Gibbons, whose vocal delivery has always owed a debt to Dylan, is smart enough to know that a great song doesn't necessarily guarantee a great record. Along with a tight band which includes members of Fairport Convention, he doesn't bring anything particularly new to these well-worn classics, but does succeed at mixing a strong personal take with a genuine respect for the material. Gibbons' unpretentious pub rock also fits well with the choices here, which tend to lean toward midtempo and country-tinged folk-rock. More than half of the selections for The Dylan Project are culled from Dylan's remarkable output between 1965 and 1967, although tracks such as New Morning's country love waltz "Winterlude," the lighthearted "Peggy Day" (Nashville Skyline), and a terrific rendition of Empire Burlesque's "Dark Eyes" keep it from predictability. The Dylan Project isn't meant to make anyone forget Blonde on Blonde, but it is a satisfying listen, as well as a fine tribute to the rock era's greatest songwriter, by a talented student of his work. ~ Brett Hartenbach, Rovi

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