“I was so in love with you, with what people do to me and you”

Evolution – The process by which different kinds of living organisms are thought to have developed and diversified from earlier forms during the history of the earth.

When an upcoming record – from an artist you have known for some time – is to be released, there’s a thrill of excitement that runs through you, a feeling of elation. Having no idea what to expect, you try to prepare yourself for what’s to come, by listening to that artist’s previous records and singles. You hope the latest album surpasses the former, but resign yourself to only accept the newest complication if it’s as good as its predecessor. When you finally are able to hold that record in your hand – see it waiting for you in your iTunes library – that feeling of elation transforms into nervousness. You try to delay the inevitable, sorting through several (good and bad) scenarios in your mind, knowing that you’ll receive no peace until your headphones are securely in place and the first track is running through your ears. In most cases, your anxiety is unfounded, but somehow warranted. Sometimes, it is well founded and is quite disappointing. In rare instances, it should have never existed – the album going above and beyond your expectations. When my Wishbone experience began two weeks ago, I had no idea I would be left in complete and utter shock.

Bobby Long has always been known as the singer/songwriter with the poetic lyrics and the somber acoustics, adding a few original British folk tunes here and there. Wishbone takes that image and completely turns it upside down. A new dynamic has been introduced with Bobby’s sophomore album, a new energy – intensity, spirit, passion – that propels that signature scratchy-scruffy sound into another universe. Although still remaining true to his roots, there’s a significant change in mood and tone from A Winter’s Tale. The album promotes a style that ultimately – as the record progresses – blurs between classic Southern-Rock and a musical entity all its own. The songs are more developed, clearer. Bobby’s voice is stronger, matured. Wishbone is the departure we never thought we wanted, but now refuse to live without.

Devil Moon: Strangely reminds me of a Paul McCartney song.

She Won’t Leave: “She won’t leave and I won’t go.” 

In Your Way: It took me a while to get used to it, but Bobby is very persuasive. Be on the look out for those Bob Dylan similarities.

Blood In the Orchard: Are we sure this guy’s British?

Help You Mend: Poetry set to music.

Making You Talk: “I stammered my way around love.”

All My Brothers: Seriously, are we sure he’s British?

My Parade: Be warned. Chocolate, ice cream, and kleenex will be needed for this one.

Yesterday, Yesterday: It definitely wasn’t all that difficult to choose my favorite on the album. I can’t stop myself from singing the chorus loudly and frequently.

Waiting for Dawn: “We’re waiting. We’re hiding. They’re running.”

Not Tonight/Not Today: It’s amazing how this song flawlessly reshapes itself from a rough, raspy song into a softer, sweeter one. I really don’t know how he does it.

To the Light: A track with a foot-stomping chorus even Marcus Mumford would be proud of. Must-listen/definite favorite!

The evolution of a musician, of this musician, is staggering. He walked the streets of New York City with his guitar in hand, sculpting verses and transforming his sound, singing melodies beneath his breath. He followed this path for years, composing and developing, making sure everything was exactly right. He walked until he’s found a locale that had progressed from what was once known. It enveloped him, made him stronger, allowing him to be reborn. The polished wishbone that has been created from this process is proof of his dedication and poetic heart. Although we haven’t seen him quite like this before, it’s a welcomed change, an astonishing reawakening of the soul. And I can’t wait to see what’s next.

*Sidenote – I hardly find myself at a loss for words, but I was so surprised by this album, that there seemed to be automatic switch that turned well-written and thoughtful phrases into a jumbled mix of mismatched emotions and stereotypical reactions to that of a pre-teen fanatic who has front row seats to her first *Nsync concert. It’s quite embarrassing, but also explains how this turned into a quick track-by-track review.

Album Rating: A

Buy Wishbone on iTunes HERE

For more Bobby Long visit his Official Website

Have you listened to Wishbone? What did you think of the album? Which track was your favorite? What’s your favorite Bobby Long song? Tell me in the comments!

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