Last ‘Blues’ creator Oldham sounds sweet by any name

Spencer Patterson

Friday, Oct. 31, 2003 | 8:27 a.m.

While most musicians strive to keep their name in the news, Will Oldham prefers to remain semi-anonymous.

Why else would the Kentucky native switch the moniker on his albums so often, from "Palace Brothers" to "Palace Songs" to "Will Oldham" to "Bonnie Prince Billy?"

Despite all that name-swapping, however, Oldham's musical legend has grown steadily over the past decade, providing him with a loyal, international cult following.

Listening to his 1995 CD, "Viva Last Blues" (that one courtesy of "Palace Music"), it's easy to understand why so many believe Oldham is one of the independent scene's most unique talents.

Blending elements of country, folk, blues, indie rock and even gospel, Oldham's compositions are creative and cerebral, yet retain a mellow, relaxing feel at all times.

His vocals are even more distinct, featuring strange inflections and occasional drop-outs, as if they might have been sung by a man in his 60s rather than a 30-something. (Oldham's exact birthdate remains a well-guarded secret).

"Viva Last Blues" kicks off with the wonderful "More Brother Rides," a back-porch tune featuring the twin guitars of Oldham and Bryan Rich, Liam Hayes' piano work, Jason Loewenstein's drumming and bouncy bass lines by Will's brother, Ned Oldham.

From there, the five musicians continue to make the disc a memorable experience, from the expletive-sprinkled single "The Mountain Low" to the rocking "Work Hard/Play Hard" to the twangy ballad "New Partner."

Oldham's cryptic lyrics also help set a mood that works equally well whether you're sitting in a dark room listening intently or heading out of town in your car.

"I cannot rest with so many singing so many songs, and what a way to sing / Their voices are bringing trees to their knees, with nothing to say when they're speaking," he sings in "The Brute Choir," one of the album's many standout tracks.

For additional Oldham listening, check out 1997's "Joya" (Will Oldham) and "I See a Darkness" (Bonnie Prince Billy). Your collection is sure to grow from there. Just be prepared: you'll have to devise your own filing system.

Artist: Palace Music.

Title: "Viva Last Blues."

Year of release: 1995 (Drag City Records).

Tracklisting: "More Brother Rides," "Viva Ultra," "The Brute Choir," "The Mountain Low," "Tonight's Decision (and Hereafter)," "Work Hard/Play Hard," "New Partner," "Cat's Blues," "We All, Us Three, Will Ride," "Old Jerusalem."