Mutual Admiration Society

Item: Mutual Admiration Society
Author: Brian A. Smith

(2004)

Reviewed by Brian A. Smith

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Label Sugar Hill RecordsThe Phantom Tollbooth2004

americana bluegrass folk rock pop rock

Three and a half years have gone by since Glen Phillips and Nickel Creek went into the studio to record this disc. After contract hassles, record company negotiations, and numerous concert performances together, this album has finally seen the light of day with a July 13 release date looming, with a short tour to follow.

Nickel Creek were long time fans of Phillips' previous band, Toad the Wet Sprocket. A mutual friend got them together, which led to Phillips' collaborating on a song for Sean Watkins' solo album. The performers hit it off, which led to an amazing tour and the disc we now have. "Comes a Time" and "Windmills" designate the toad-era songs included. "Sake of the World," co-written by Phillips and Jon Brion, is a tune about a man who knows himself perhaps too well. The vocal harmonies between Phillips, Sara Watkins, and Chris Thile make this one of the best tracks on the disc.

Those who have seen the two acts in concert will be glad to note the inclusion of songs such as "Francesca," "Trouble", "La Lune," and the Harry Nilsson classic "Think About Your Troubles," aka "The Decomposing Whale Song." The album also has a few new numbers, with titles "Be Careful," "Running Out," "Somewhere Out There" (another highlight), and "Reprise."

Thile may be the best mandolin player on this side of the Atlantic. Sean Watkins is an incredibly underrated guitarist, and Sara Watkins combines a wide vocal range with impressive violin ability. All four artists provide vocals, with Phillips assuming the lead most of the time. Unfortunately, as much as I love Glen Phillips, the vocals of Nickel Creek are woefully underemphasized on this album. Having heard most of these songs live, it is inexplicable to me to have muted the harmonies that are chillingly good in concert. That is the only detail that prevents Mutual Admiration Society from being a home run.

4 tocks