Every once in a while an album comes along that is so completely dull that it takes real effort to make it all the way through while retaining consciousness. Michael Penn's latest release, Mr. Hollywood Jr., 1947, would probably be better served if it were called Soundtrack for an Insomniac.
It took me a few attempts to actually listen to the entire album straight through. I kept losing interest, I thirsted for something a little more energetic, all I needed was the semblance of life. I very nearly ended up in a somnambulists slumber.
It isn't that the music is all that bad, and I am aware that this artist and his music have fans far and wide, but it was so far removed from what I wanted to listen to. Don't get me wrong, I like my share of music from the mellower side of the genre meter. There are some singer/songwriters who I feel put out some wonderful music, artists such as Mike Doughty and the late Warren Zevon.
Once I finally waded through this dullard, I was speechless. I felt so conflicted as to how to approach reviewing this. On one hand, I know I'm beating a dead horse, I found it to be an excruciating exercise in retaining consciousness. The flip side of the coin actually displayed an intriguing thought process in creating this concept album. On paper it looks as if it would be quite interesting, a story set in the year 1947, creating a tapestry recreation of the era through a story that weaves through the entire album. A story that combines romance, intrigue, politics, and even key technological advances of the time. The album is even split in the song listing to mimic a record albums two sides.
I just could not get into the album, it is just way to slow, dull, fill in your on adjective here. This is in no way meant to belittle the work of Penn, who obviously cares about his work, nor his fans. I am happy for those who like this, but I just don't get it.
Not Recommended.
September 21, 2005
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