By Ken Paulson
–Todd Snider’s new album Agnostic Hymns and Stoner Fables may put you a little on edge, but thankfully, he’s also provided the antidote.
Agnostic Hymns could well be the original cast album for the Occupy Movement, with a fair share of contemporary protest songs and attitude.
The opening track “In the Beginning” makes the case that religion was invented to keep the poor from killing the rich. On “New York Banker,” Snider sings “good things happen to bad people.” No happy endings here.
Closer “Big Finish,” sort of a “Hey Jude” for the unraveled, advises “It ain’t the desire that gets you; it’s the hope.” It also contains the best line on the album: When I found myself in possession of these car keys, I just naturally assumed I could drive.”
“Brenda” is a change of pace, melodic and affirming, about either a challenged and enduring couple or the partnership between Keith Richards and Mick Jagger. Probably both.
If you tire of Agnostic Hymns, you need only turn to Snider’s other current album. Time as We Know it: The Songs of Jerry Jeff Walker, is a celebration of the singer and songwriter who helped transform the Austin music scene of the ‘70s. It’s an engaging sampling of Walker’s best known-songs and a handful of intriguing obscurities.
The covers are pretty faithful, with the occasional lyrical liberty. On a terrific version of “Sangria Wine” recorded with Kix Brooks, Snider moves the drinking to East Nashville.
“Taking it as it Comes,” “Jaded Lover,” “Derby Day,” “Railroad Lady” and “Little Bird”(with Elizabeth Cook) all reveal Snider’s obvious affection for Walker, and in turn, Jerry Jeff’s clear influence on Todd.
The two albums are a formidable combination; one contemporary and cutting, the other nostalgic and joyous. Not a bad spring for Todd Snider.