WET DARK AND LOW

On this album, Kit Watkins pays tribute to Robert Bly, the author of the book Iron John (I think it has something to do with a metal toilet - it must be very cold in the winter). And it is uplifting. Here Watkins finally veers away from his descent into ambient (new age) music.

The songs are energetic. Most are driven by percussion. And on a few songs, particularly Brave Water and Slinky, he uses a harmonized trumpet sound, that gives the music a strong resemblance to Jon Hassell's works.

Another great track is Funky Duty, sort of a honky tonk blues in 7 and six.

The only disappointing piece is Setting Iron John Free, a softer song that doesn't come close to evoking freedom. But it's good to hear Watkins playing more complex music again.