Newman's first proper record in too long is a resounding reminder of his right to be considered one of popular music's greatest songwriters. Not to mention a unique performer when on this sort of form. His style has always been deceptively casual and
conversational, while defusing potentially explosive subject matter with a subtle stanza or deft verse.
'A Few Words' is stupendously good – "The end of an empire, messy at best, this empire has ended, like all the rest," putting America's current decline into stark and realistic historical context.
The arrangements are sumptuous beyond Broadway, and as vivid and lush as Hollywood's musical heyday. 'A Piece Of Pie' savages the culture of celebrities saving the world with great skill and no little glee: "Bono's off in Africa, he's never around, country turns its lowly eyes to who? – Jackson Browne." Doubtless the politically minded soft rocker will take it on his immaculately chiselled chin, but if anyone can make pop stars relinquish saviour status and make music instead, here's yer man.
Newman then reinvents the concept of Easy Street for the modern age, all tinkling ivories and savage barbs, while 'Korean Parents' is Randy at his brilliant satirical best.
The title track is an endearing slab of personal philosophy, with 'Potholes' – "down Memory Lane" – coming on like a comatose Louisiana boogie woogie, yet sharp as total recall.
Download this: A Few Words, A Piece Of Pie
The full article contains 250 words and appears in Scotland On Sunday newspaper.
