This album, which has been available as an import, has finally made it to the U.S.
Willie NileWillie Nile, “The Innocent Ones” (River House). 3 ½ STARS
Rockin’ Willie Nile, one of the last of the true believers, never garnered a lot of money or fame in the music, he’s just stayed true to his passion for more than three decades, a hardcore base of fans and countless critical raves.
This album, which has been available as an import, has finally made it to the U.S. and with its big booming choruses, deep melodies and throttling rhythmic attack proves pretty tough to resist.
The New Yorker’s band includes guitarist extraordinaire Steuart Smith, as well as Nile’s longtime songwriting partner Frankie Lee, and starts with the hard-charging “Singin’ Bell.” It’s later sparked by the Stones’ flavored “Topless Amateur,” and the pulsating “One Guitar.”
Not everything is quite so scorching though and Nile adds to the dynamics with the occasional ballad – check out “Sideways Beautiful” – and the sweet pop naiveté of “My Little Girl.”
Tracks to download: “My Little Girl” “One Guitar”