Papa M - Whatever, Mortal

Movie rating: 3 Star

David 'Papa M' Pajo is one of those unfortunate characters whose reputation amongst his fellow musicians is far greater than his actual fame, not to mention record sales. As leader of Slint and Tortoise this mercurial character has made seminal sadcore and post-rock records, without ever coming within a country mile of troubling the charts. His new solo album is a much more conventional affair, an acoustic collection of introspective country songs which expertly blend tragedy with farce. While Pajo bends his wry baritone around these tales of cruelty and heartbreak, he's not above throwing in the occasional crude knob joke to lighten the mood. Comparisons with Will 'Palace' Oldham (who co-produces) and Bill 'Smog' Callahan have been made, but Papa M is ultimately less po-faced than either, which makes him rather easier to digest. Well worth investigation.

Review by | 09:00 | Friday 15th February 2002 | Album Review

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