Old 97's: The Grand Theatre Vol. 2

Old 97's
The Grand Theatre Vol. 2
New West Records [2011]









Fire Note Says: Fitting follow up to 2010's Volume One from the Old 97's.

Album Review:
The Grand Theatre Vol. 2 from the Old 97's is the looser companion to Volume One released late last year. The 13 tracks here offer another enjoyable Texas ride of roots rock Americana as the project was originally slated as a double album but the decision was made to split it up (still not really sure why). Everything from the very different cover art to using the number "2" in the title instead of spelling it out like "Volume One", I would say there is a small attempt to now separate itself. Musically, Vol. 2 is an Old 97's record but it does seem to lack standout singles. As an album it plays well and considering that it technically is the follow up, I believe it has allowed the band a place to change up some things like the rollicking instrumental "Marquita" or the saloon sing along in the beginning of "White Port". If you have been a fan of the Old 97's for awhile, Vol. 2 will absolutely appeal to you. The kick off track "Brown Haired Daughter" and following "I'm A Trainwreck" is classic sounding 97's while "The Actor" stretches their rock out like they are 20 again. Overall, The Grand Theatre Vol. 2 separates itself out from Volume One but falls a bit short in comparison as it does not quite flow as well with bumpier transitions. The music and vibe here is still solid and even though Vol. 2 is not the Old 97's best it still should play great live and once again showcases their multitude of talents.

Key Tracks: "I'm A Trainwreck", "White Port", "Brown Haired Daughter"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Drive-By Truckers
Limbeck
Bottle Rockets

Old 97's: The Grand Theatre Volume One [Fire Note Review 10/8/10]
Old 97's: Mimeograph [EP] [Fire Note Review 7/16/10]
Old 97's: Wreck Your Life...And Then Some: The Complete Bloodshot Recordings [Fire Note Review 1/25/10]
Old 97's: Blame It On Gravity [Fire Note Review 5/27/08]

Old 97's Website
Old 97's Facebook
New West Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony