Mellencamp’s CD opens with the raspy ballad “Mobile Blue” and he picks up the pace with the mid-tempo “Battle Of Angels.” Martina McBride lends her powerhouse vocals on his latest single “Grandview,” which he co-wrote with his cousin Bobby Clark, and their voices blend well together. “Indigo Sunset” is a glorious collaboration with Carlene Carter, and equally compelling is the reflective yet haunting “What Kind Of Man Am I” with Christie Brinkley on backing vocals.
The Rock and Roll Hall of Famer picks up the pace yet again with the refreshing “All Night Talk Radio,” while he and Carlene Carter subsequently take their listeners on a trip to “Sugar Hill Mountain.”
After the ballad “You Are Blind,” Carlene Carter nails the spitfire “Damascus Road” with Mellencamp on harmonies. “Early Bird Cafe” has a retro vibe to it, reminiscent of his musical work in the while “Sad Clowns” is crisp and raspy. It closes with the upbeat, harmonica-driven tune “My Soul’s Got Wings,” as well as the haunting “Easy Target.”
The Verdict
Overall, John Mellencamp rocks on his 23rd studio album, Sad Clowns & Hillbillies. It shows his evolution and growth as a singer-songwriter. The album garners 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Sad Clowns & Hillbillies is available for purchase on iTunes.
