Bill Callahan’s voice has an extraordinary presence.
That’s one way of putting it. Or…mesmerizing. Mere words don’t suffice. The fans will understand.
Perhaps on most of the Smog albums, or within the folds and winding paths of his solo work (Sometimes I Wish We Were An Eagle for one reference, to be sure), Callahan’s voice has been one of infinite solitude. Yet those deep, serious and warm tones weave reflections on things like domestic bliss, love and even letting go on the captivating Shepherd In A Sheepskin Vest. And again, Callahan tells his stories like no other, which is part baritone commanding your attention and part shy/retiring matter-of-fact understatement.
Get the album. Now.
As of this writing, there are still a few tickets remaining for tonight’s performance at Scholz Garten, 1607 San Jacinto (tomorrow is sold out). Doors open at 8 p.m., and opener Jake Xerxes Fussell gets the evening started right. Very recommended.
-Photography by Jorge Sanheuza-Lyon for KUTX.
