342 of 1001 Albums: Tim Buckley's Greetings From L.A.

Tim Buckley is back with his seventh album, and he's matured over time along with his voice, but he still has something very unique about even though his music has more of distinct vibe to it now. Buckley's voice always stood out, and there are certain songs that reflect that distinctness well. Buckley sounds like he has come along way from his first few albums, and instead of the lightness that accompanied many of the songs in them this one has more of a darker feel that could be sung by a guy who hasn't had the easiest of lives.

While the album is a critical success it never was a good seller. For some reason Buckley hits this list a lot, but people never picked up on Buckley's music. On this album though he still strives to at least please himself by making music. "Move With Me" sort of reflects a Buckley that is more care free who has a blues vibe in his music, and more so even in his voice. Most of the music sounds like music about companionship.


The album is one that grows as you listen though. "Hong Kong Bar" is one of the most different, and stand out songs on the album with the strong vocals, and soft music that backs him. Tim Buckley has some of the most unique vocals, so this highlights just how good he is. "Make It Right" is an appropriate ending to the album that at times feels like it is just having a good time, and others reflecting on some pretty deeply bothersome things.

Overall, if you're a fan of Tim Buckley's past work then you will enjoy this one. It sort of heavily falls into some jazz mixed in with a bit of rock. Tim Buckley would pass away the same year that this album was released. If you haven't heard Tim Buckley before then I would recommend checking out some of his earlier work first as who he was on this album is quite a bit different than the previous Buckley of past albums from the early 70s and 60s.

Rating 5 of 10.
Recommended Listen: Make it Right