The chorus, with it wheezing harmonium and clarinet, turns impossibly fantastic as if it were the key tune in an existential musical: “If wishes were horses / And hopes were diamond rings / We all would be riding / Bejeweled like kings”.īutch Hancock’s “The Damage Done” is an old school protest narrative, witty and wise like Dylan’s golden years. Baerwald’s weathered voice paints a bleak picture of life during wartime: “If only if only / The sad doctor sighed / If only they’d brought her / To me here in time / But the streets were in ruins / No cars could pass by / She never need have died / If only”. David Baerwald’s weary “If Wishes Were Horses” laments the realities of a war-torn world, refusing to offer up unfounded solutions for human suffering.

The most resounding blows delivered by 13 Ways to Live are those that are not bogged down by weighty indulgence or slow, impending despair. A few tracks veer into shallow water, lured by either inconsequential lyrics or uncontrolled editorializing, but the record’s strengths surpass its intermittent weaknesses. This collaboration effort has made me realize how wonderful the human spirit can be and how strong things can become by simply taking the initiative to act upon what you care about.” Very noble intentions, indeed, and 13 Ways to Live is decidedly on track with observant songs by gifted writers for most of its running time. It was an avenue for artists and musicians to express their feelings, thoughts and ideas about the situation we all found ourselves in…. In addition, all proceeds from the album will be donated to the Vietnam Veterans of American Foundation, an international humanitarian organization.īukka Allen, who helped to assemble the album and recorded all of its tracks with his bandmates in Screen Door Music, writes in the liner notes: “This collection of music was made in response to the war in Iraq. 13 Ways to Live is a compilation of slightly more interesting caliber: all 13 selections are performed by Texas-based songwriters, written and recorded specifically for their inclusion.

Like Barsuk Records’ Future Soundtrack for America and Fat Wreck Chords’ Rock Against Bush, 13 Ways to Live presents a number of contemporary musicians musing on the United States’ invasion of Iraq and supposed War on Terror. Red House Records’ 13 Ways to Live is the latest addition to the seemingly endless onslaught of compilations (not to mention films and books) declaring an alternative State of the Union address.

Abra moore melancholy love tabs