AMG Review of Blue Earth [Bonus Tracks]

Jason Ankeny
All Music Guide

The songs which make up Blue Earth originated as demos, and save for some minor studio tinkering, are presented here in their original embryonic state. As a consequence, the record lacks punch; spare and economical, the songs are simply too primitive to come to life in this setting. Nonetheless, the growth of the band's songwriting skills over their debut is substantial; while many of the themes -- drifting, drinking, and lost love -- remain the same, they're handled with greater insight and clarity than before, with a keen eye for detail and nuance. [In 2003, Ryko reissued Blue Earth and included three previously unheard demos.]