Description:
2002 saw the release of  Genius: The Best of Warren Zevon which paints a portrait of the artist as a cynical lone wolf. A year later Zevon was dead, having earlier been diagnosed with terminal lung cancer. This collection shows the much-missed singer/songwriter’s softer side.
Which means?

Artemis have raided their back catalogue to put together a compilation of some of Zevon’s more sensitive songs he recorded with the label. Twelve tracks from five separate albums is the result. Although with titles like ‘She’s Too Good For Me’ and ‘I’ll Slow You Down’, Warren remains resolutely sardonic.

Is it much cop?
It’s Judge Dredd. The movie, 21st century version. Remade with Vin Diesel replacing Sylvester Stallone in the title role.

How many good tracks?

12 out of 12. ‘Please Stay’ from Zevon’s final album The Wind features long-term friend (and legend in her own right) Emmylou Harris on backing vocals. It would reduce Tony Soprano to tears.

And the worst?
‘Laissez-Moi Tranquille’, a Serge Gainsbourg cover, seems to have been included in the mistaken belief that any lyrics written in French turn a track into a love song. Meanwhile, ‘MacillyCuddy’s Reeks’ sounds like a reinterpretation of The Pogues’ ‘Sally MacLennane’. Whilst neither track is bad per se, they both appear hideously out of place.
Biggest disappointment?
That Warren Zevon isn’t around to serenade us any more. As his condition worsened, his songs became more nostalgic and less biting. There were more love songs in the man which his death robbed his audience of.

Verdict:
As far removed from your average collection of love songs as it’s possible to be, this is sentimental without ever being schmaltzy. Fans of Warren Zevon might not be raving over it, lamenting the omission of songs recorded for different labels. However, a whole new generation of listeners will fall in love with Zevon after hearing this.

(5/5)

Release Date: 20 March 2006

Romantic Genius – The Love Songs