Believe It!

Anyone who has convinced themselves that Lennon was a genius while McCartney got lucky every once and a while probably should stop reading now. Actually, should stop reading and relisten to "Double Fantasy".

There is a certain Rock snobbery that has dogged Rhett Miller every time he has tried to step out of the role as leader of the Old 97's and make a play for greener pastures. The inevitable eye-rolling at his pretty-boy good looks. The slicker production value somehow means he sold his soul to "the man." Listening to his latest, The Believer I can't help but hear the same guy that has been fronting The Old 97's, hell, this could pass as an Old 97's disc. The opening track
"My Valentine" features great back up from The Jayhawks, Gary Louris and more hooks than a French whorehouse.
Hey, I love lo-fi sensibilities as much as the next guy, but let's give the kid a break. Since when did dressing-up deserve such a dressing-down?