Chuck Brodsky - Two Sets (Waterbug)

There's a school of thought that says America doesn't 'do' irony. While there are plenty of examples in public life to support the case, there are artists like Chuck Brodsky (and his deeply appreciative audiences) who provide a convincing counter argument. Not quite as laconic as John Prine, nor as acerbic as Loudon Wainwright, Brodsky writes with a wit that sits comfortably somewhere between the two. A jester in the truest sense, Brodsky's narratives about relationships, life in America and its leaders are closely and sharply observed, but sufficiently sugared with humour to ensnare and disarm all but the most deeply entrenched Red Stater. Two Sets is a live recording on 2 CDs that successfully captures the intimacy of a folk club performance. My only quibble is Brodsky's tendency – and he's hardly alone among folk singers in this regard – to use his intros to provide an executive summary for songs that really should be left to speak for themselves. At twenty-five tracks, I could have left quite satisfied after one set; however, diehard fans will happily settle in for the full duration.