Following 'Somewhere Near Paterson' was never going to be an easy task, but with 'Courier' he manages to reinforce and build on his reputation as one of the most intelligent singer/songwriters around.
Recorded live over thee shows in North Eastern USA, this album concentrates on material from his three Shanachie releases, with only one track from Paterson ('Transit'), and two covers (Lowell George's 'Willin', and Springsteen's 'Fourth of July, Asbury Park').
Cherry picking the highlights from his impressive back catalogue means this disc contains no filler, every song is beautifully crafted, and would be worth it's place on any album.
After a few years of living with and performing these songs, they've really had chance to develop, and with few exceptions these are the definitive recordings - 'Arrowhead', already lyrically brilliant on 'Blue Divide' has turned into a much more atmospheric song with different musical accompaniment, and 'Reunion Hill' is spellbinding in it's slowed down reading, with just Richard on guitar and Larry Campbell on violin.
Although recorded live, there's very little crowd noise, and the recording is so clear it's more akin to an album that has been recorded live in the studio. Add to this the superb backing vocals from Lucy Kaplansky (especially on 'Kenworth of my Dreams' and 'Memory of You'), and a band who know and understand the material, and you have an album of exceptional quality.
After living with this album for a few months 'Courier' is the definitive Shindell recording - it has the best songs from his Shanachie albums, and they're presented in better readings than the original versions. A truly essential disc.

£12.99