WAITING FOR THE COFFEE TO KICK IN

WAITING FOR THE COFFEE TO KICK IN by Andrew Vladeck.

SIGN ON THE WINDOW by Bob Dylan.

Back when Amy used to regularly attend Andrew's shows (that is, before she started having to teach the kiddies), Waiting For The Coffee To Kick In was one of her favorites. It's easy to like: a friendly, relaxed melody; clever yet plain lyrics. It's a world weary message but as far from overbearing as possible.

Dylan comparisons are always stupid and unfair, especially in Andrew's case--man with guitar & harmonica, nasally voice, story songs, etc. But I'll risk it, especially since I'm not invoking the Blowing In The Wind stuff. Instead, I'm thinking of my own favorite Dylan period, his post-superstar, post-motorcycle accident period, like the Basement Tapes, "Nashville Skyline," "New Morning,""Pat Garrett." What I like about the music from that period I can recognize in some of Andrew's music: engaging but not needy, street smart, self-aware. His music can be formally straightforward, lyrically casual, but by choice not necessity. Restrained.

Sign On The Window is classic, and it gains in esteem by knowing that Bob's not giving you everything here. "Here's a pretty little song," he's saying, "and that should be enough."

LISTEN to Andrew Vladeck.

LISTEN to Bob Dylan.

Photo: Sun-up.