• Released: 2009
• Recommended: Life Is Hard, Jolene, This Dream of You

This is Dylan’s 33^rd studio album is also his fifth No. 1 album. It’s hard to imagine someone amassing that much studio time but when it comes to Dylan, nothing should be that surprising. This album is the follow up to the #1 2006 Modern Times and one of Dylan’s more successful endeavors.

Together Through Life explores Dylan’s love of the South, revealing that he wanted the album to capture “Texas-Mexican escapism aura.” Each track is backed up by an array of instruments from drums, guitars, to mandolins and accordions.

The opening Beyond Here Lies Nothin’ gives the album a strong start backed by his band and a simple accordion and lyrics that tell the listener that no one should live in the future. The next track Life is Hard was written for the upcoming film My Own Love Song and was co-written with Grateful Dead lyricist Robert Hunter. The mandolin gives the ballad depth while the lyrics lament about a lost love.

My Wife’s Home Town stands out with caustic lyrics such as “I just wanna say that hell’s my wife’s home town.” The song reminds the listener that Dylan still showcases his personality throughout his lyrics. If I Ever Go to Houston is a cautionary song about knowing where you’ve been backed by an ear-pleasing accordion arrangement.

Forgetful Heart showcases Dylan’s voice and proves that the man can still hold emotion while sounding a bit grave. Jolene is a standout track on the record, showcasing a killer guitar riff. Once again, Dylan’s lyrics are talking about the places he’s been. The song flows into This Dream of You, a surprisingly vulnerable song for Dylan, supported by a somber violin and accordion. The song also is the best lyrically on the album, “Everything I touch / Seems to disappear / Everywhere I turn / You are always here / I’ll run this race until my earthly death / I’ll defend this place with my dying breath.”

Shake Shake Mama seems a little abrupt as the next track. But Dylan’s lyrics are confident and the guitar riffs are strong. The melody is addictive and I can only imagine what this song would sound like live. I Feel a Change Comin’ On stands out lyrics wise as well. “Some people they tell me I have the blood of the land in my voice,” sings Dylan, backed by an accordion and mellow drum beat. The song is simple and fits right in with the rest of the tracks. The last song It’s All Good, seems a bit disconnected from the rest of the album. Dylan’s not one to follow trends (but make them) and here he is, talking the slang of the street as if he’s always done so.

Jack Frost (a Bob Dylan pseudonym) produced the album. The entire album sound nostalgic and organic, just the way it’s supposed to sound. Dylan’s prowess as a songwriter shines through the entire album. The tone throughout the album is comfort of home, and Dylan seems to be completely comfortable throughout the record. At 68 years old, this man can still produce quality music, a feat not many other musicians can accomplish. Well done Bob.

Author's Rating