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Review by GregM November 16, 2011 (0 of 1 found this review helpful)
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Performance:  Sonics:  |
| Infidels on SACD is not as dynamic as Freewheelin, but not as veiled as Desire. Some of the material on Infidels is demo-worthy. Dylan had not recorded a good album since the mid-70s when he stepped into the studio with an interesting lineup of musicians: ex-Stones guitarist Mick Taylor, Dire Straits guitarist and Dylan disciple Mark Knopfler, and the renown reggae/R&B rhythm duo of Sly and Robbie Dunbar. Dylan was never the best bandleader and he didn't take full advantage of the talent here. But the band provided a compelling backdrop for the songs, which range from bad to excellent. In terms of inspirational poetry, melodic hooks and intellectual punch, Jokerman sits at the top of Dylan's output. I think it's even better than many of his '60s anthems, including Tambourine Man and Like a Rolling Stone. Some material on the album was were inspired by Israel, as indicated by the gatefold photo of Dylan kneeling with Jerusalem stretching out behind him. Indeed, Neighborhood Bully, with stop-and-start driving guitars, is nothing but a satiric description of Israel standing strong among weaklings that offer little but hatred and deception. None of the other songs are particularly noteworthy. Sweetheart Like You is a nice ballad.
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