Bill Callahan – Dream River

Bill Callahan – Dream River (Drag City)

On his 14th album, and 4th released under his own name, Bill Callahan continues to hone his own heavy-hearted take on the American folk tradition. Although it was also recorded in Texas and features similar cover art and some of the same personnel as his terrific 2011 album, Apocalypse, Dream River depicts a considerably more laid back side of Callahan. Over uncharacteristically sumptuous, almost jazzy arrangements of strings, flutes, congas, bongos, and deftly plucked guitars, he delivers characteristically droll and insightful musings in his inimitable baritone. While those who loved Apocalypse’s explosive moments might find it frustratingly inconclusive, close listens reveal Dream River to be a subtler yet no less precious gem in Callahan’s lustrous catalogue.