In his 2009 release, Changing Horses, Ben Kweller left the alternative rock world of his early career and made his first venture into country music. While he performs amicably in his new genre, the decision to explore his alternative country and bluegrass interests has brought Kweller to a crossroads. Will he return to the indie rock that led to his early success or dive deeper into country tradition? The newest release from Kweller, Sawdust Man/Send Me Down the Road, provides a glimpse in the direction Kweller's career is moving.
Only available as a 45-rpm vinyl record, Sawdust Man/Send Me Down the Road follows up Kweller's previous release by continuing to embrace his country influences. Side A of the record contains the track ""Sawdust Man,"" which also appeared on Kweller's last full album.
""Sawdust Man"" exemplifies the current transition in Kweller's artistic direction. The track opens with a piano part that could be from any one of Kweller's albums, however it is quickly overpowered by that characteristically country twang that has become a staple of Kweller's recent music.
No matter what genre he performs, what sets Kweller apart is his distinct voice; his vocals stand out with his rootsy style. Some of the quirk that made his other albums so interesting comes through at the end of the track with an oddball voice-over playing in the background. But similar to Kweller's most recent work, what will really determine if fans will enjoy the song is if they can accept the new country direction.
On Side B is ""Send Me Down the Road,"" which, unlike its Side A counterpart, is a new single. However, those looking for him to revert back to his old style will be sorely disappointed. ""Send Me Down the Road"" is as much a country song as anything Kweller has done before. The track shows how deeply Kweller is immersing himself into the world of country. The guitar is as twangy as ever, and Kweller begins to adopt a bit of a drawl at points during the track, showing that the artist is truly into the Nashville spirit that has taken over his sound.
If this record is any indication of where Kweller's sound is headed, fans hoping for a return to his old indie rock may be disappointed: that return does not seem imminent. Meanwhile, Kweller's journey into the world of country deserves a listen because of the fresh sound he's bringing to the genre. But his most recent work is inarguably different from anything he has done before and that is sure to put some listeners off. While a 45-rpm vinyl release certainly isn't something that is going to appeal to everyone, as long as the listener comes in with an open mind, both fans of Kweller and alternative country will find something to enjoy about his artistic direction.
