Ryan Adams & the Cardinals
Cardinology (Universal)
If he weren't so prolific, Cardinology would likely be hailed as a masterpiece by Ryan Adams. But coming from a guy who released three albums in one year at one point, his latest release with his backup band feels like a collection of songs that he found underneath his bed in a bid to fulfil the end of a record contract.
The first half of this release has the languid tone and twang of well-honed country laments that can be found on any of Adams' nine other solo albums.
The curveballs come in the form of the up-tempo three-chord rocker Magick, with its bashed-out 'what comes around goes around' chorus and the soft, stunning acoustic Crossed Out Name.
If the album had more punch, Cardinology would be stunning rather than merely solid.
