An incantatory flight into that great netherworld: humanity. al yell's first album combines superb musicianship with the lyrical guts to go further than mere posturing. The irreverence of songs such as 'Amerika's Delight' reminds the listener that true rock n' roll is a challenge to, not an affirmation of, the old lies. Into the Night thrusts that challenge home with al yell's signature flute, with which he seems to invoke long forgotten gods from a ruinous landscape. Songs like 'Living in a Dream' and 'Madness' expose the hypocrisy at the heart of the human condition, while providing some highly danceable beats. Into the Night is rock philosophy with a personal edge, and without the greasy aftertaste.
A literal 'dual' to the death between an insomniac and his pillow, al yell,s second album counterpoints agony and enlightenment in a musical mesh that is both intricate and taut. Songs such as 'Believe' and 'Never Knew Love' are melodic, yet deceptively simple, streams of personal longing. Somewhat more subdued in tone than Into the Night, Mind Division is al yell at his most contemplative, and searing. Songs such as 'Close Your Eyes' and 'Crux' continually affirm his allegiance to no one. Yet the only target is himself, and, as 'The Jewel in the Lotus' so masterfully reveals, there is no contentment until even that has burned away.
Hey Al... Had a pleasant thought today... remembering all of us in high school and how much fun we had. Missing the days on the East-end when the most important thing on the adjenda was going to see the 'guys' play. Wishing you another year of continued success & looking forward to witnessing your creative mind at work.
fantastic show last night al! great setlist, and when you played it, i loved that you believed it. You have put your heart and soul into it, and people like me get to reap the benifits, by listening to it.
Awsome show, Awsome music man.
Keep it coming...
