In These Times by Peter, Paul & Mary

In These Times

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In These Times

Features

Audio CD (February 24, 2004)

Number of Discs: 1

Label: Warner Bros / Wea

Reader Reviews
Most of the groups that started in the sixties have either disbanded, died, or moved far away from the sounds and ideas that got them their popularity in the first place. Not so this group, a group that I think can appeal to almost every segment of American (and even world) society. Their voices have changed over the years; Mary no longer soars, but instead has a warmth and mellowness that you can wallow in; Peter now has a serious case of the wobbles, but which fits perfectly with the type of songs in this album; Paul perhaps has changed the least, with his distinctive phrasing and solid bass. But this album proves that the type of songs they started with back in 1962 is still the focus of this group, songs that celebrate the unity of all mankind, that strike out against prejudice, bigotry, and the inhumanities against both spirit and body that are still all too prevalent in the world today. "Jesus on the Wire" is a truly haunting portrait in song of just these points; Mary's current voice seems almost perfect for this image of a truly horrendous act. Regardless of your own views of homosexuality, this song will drive home what being a human is. "Invisible People" highlights the blinding arrogance of some people and groups, and its deadly effects on those left outside of their closed vision. "Some Walls" harmonically doesn't work as well for me as some of the other songs here, but it is still a very pretty song with an acid bite. "Don't Laugh at Me" will probably strike a chord with everyone, as I think we've all been subjected to ridicule or ostracism at one point or another for some perceived flaw in character or looks. "All God's Critters" highlights the fact that this group can still have fun, that they still enjoy children and children's songs, and I don't see how you can't end up singing along with this one. Musically, most of the songs here are simple, done with only a few acoustic instruments, almost a complete return to the type of sound they had on their very first album. It's striking, haunting, and richly enfolding. I just wish this group could go on singing forever. --- Reviewed by Patrick Shepherd (hyperpat)

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