I am surprised to hear that Joe did not like Infidels. I think Jokerman, Sweetheart Like You, License to Kill, and I and I are all masterpiece songs that are endlessly relistenable. You guys didn’t really touch on I and I that much but it is seriously one of the most underrated songs in his catalogue. I especially Knopfler’a playing on that one, accenting lyrics like “smokin’ down the track” with a great lick. License To Kill is the lynchpin of the record. It ties the themes of the record together brilliantly. Ultimately, it is an album confronting the excesses of modernity and the innate fallen nature of man. Always get chills when he sings “there’s a woman on my block facing the hills and says who’s gonna take away his license to kill” As for the more political songs like “Neighbourhood Bully” I guess your enjoyment of the song really depends on where you stand on Israel. It’s unfortunately one of those political issues that is really divisive. I really like it and think it continues to be a very relevant song but I can understand why others might not feel the same way. Union Sundown on the other hand is awesome. The lyrics are borderline absurd but it just makes the song that much more interesting. I think it is a successful critique of globalism and consumer culture. Dylan even returns to the anti-moon theme with “they used to grow food in Kansas, now they want to grow it on the moon and eat it raw!” Such a memorable line. It reminds me of Tombstone Blues in that way, which I would note he brought back into his set list for the ‘84 Tour with Mick Taylor. I also like the sentiment behind Man of Peace. A very interesting set of lyrics which complements both Neighbourhood Bully and License to Kill quite well as he contemplates the different forms that evil can take in order to seize power. I think the song is a little too long and the melody not as strong as Jokerman, but I still enjoy it as an album track. Don’t Fall Apart On Me Tonight is a song I used to consider a throwaway, but at some point it just clicked with me. Really great playing, great drum fills, bass, and an awesome harmonic part from Bob. So overall, I think about half of the album is amazing and the other half is interspersed with solid album tracks. I can’t give it any less than 4 stars.
After playing around with it for a bit, I've come up with my preferred "Infidels Revisited" tracklist. And, unlike with "Shot Of Love Revisited", all of these tracks/versions are available on Spotify (and probably most other streaming services). Side One: 1. Jokerman 2. Sweetheart Like You 3. Foot Of Pride (The Bootleg Series, Vols. 1-3 (Rare & Unreleased) 1961-1991) 4. I And I Side Two: 1. Don't Fall Apart On Me Tonight 2. License to Kill 3. Someone's Got A Hold Of My Heart (The Bootleg Series, Vols. 1-3 (Rare & Unreleased) 1961-1991) 4. Lord Protect My Child (Springtime In New York: The Bootleg Series, Vol. 16 / 1980-1985) 5. Blind Willie McTell (The Bootleg Series, Vols. 1-3 (Rare & Unreleased) 1961-1991) This version has 9 songs versus 8 songs on the official "Infidels" release, but I've swapped out some of the more middle of the road tracks off of the original and replaced them with songs I personally prefer, and which seem to generally be regarded as stronger by most Dylan fans. I've seen where 'Sweetheart Like You' was not originally supposed to be the second song in a reported early tracklist, but, I've listened to "Infidels" so much over the years that I can't really hear another song besides that after 'Jokerman'. I like 'I and I' after 'Foot Of Pride', and in the position to end Side One. Admittedly, it feels a bit odd to have 'Don't Fall Apart On Me Tonight' opening Side Two because, again, I've listened to the album so much, and that is the album closer. That said, it works better as an opener to Side Two than I first imagined, and 'Blind Willie McTell' is a natural album closer. I didn't originally think I would have the string of 3 outtakes closing out this revised version, but the production on those recordings seems less glossy/more organic than the finished album, so they kind of wound up flowing together better. Having 'Lord Protect My Child' lead into 'Blind Willie McTell' ends the album on a more bluesy and reflective note than where things started. Not perfect...but it was a fun exercise. open.spotify.com/playlist/0slxYz5Rnt71BDTb2D41nx?si=90b015e421844637
Many here probably already know this but, one of Bob's big promotional appearances for Infidels was on Letterman with The Plugz. He completely changed the arrangement of Joker Man and License to Kill as punk songs! Seems Bob was already changing the Infidels sound. Great discussion guys...thanks.
Playing for change has much better music perhaps it's a little overdone but it shows you what the song can be ruclips.net/video/MpInpgRMUSM/видео.htmlsi=P6w-W4R9cFID7ROX
Ever since this series started I've been looking forward to the 80s albums! When Joe launches into his dislike of this record the look on Dylan's face says it all: 'If he doesn't like this.......what is he going to think of the next few albums?!' A really enjoyable episode and I'm really looking forward to the next few!
I just want to say what a pleasure it is to discover Dylan (not the singer). It is always interesting to hear your thoughts ! Keep up the good work, both of you.
This is the first Dylan album I took notice of. The rock magazine I read back then, had bought an American interview with Bob, during rehearsals of Infidels. He complained about radio stations in New Orleans, that only played The Pretenders, when he was hoping for blues music.
Great to have this weekly shot of Bob, as I do love this series…and it’s the clear (especially now, gotta say) highlight of the channel! I have great fondness for Infidels..a solid 4 stars from me. I got it when it came out, and loved what I thought was a raunchy sound and some solid rockers and mix of slower tunes. Loved Jokerman, I and I, License to Kill and even Neighbourhood Bully, cringed a little even back in day re Sweetheart (too hippy dippy flower power sounding), and remember that Rolling Stone thought Union Sundown was the album’s highlight (huh?). I thought Dylan sounded great, solid backing band. When those fantastic “lost” songs from the sessions came out on Bootleg Vol. 1-3 all those years later, I was more amazed and impressed than pissed off…I couldn’t believe the quality of the songs, especially Blind Willy of course. How could you not love and respect an artist that has such songs and performances at his command, whether they are on a specific album or not. We have them now, and they are magical. No artist has such a treasure trove as does Dylan. Appreciate it all, however he chooses to release them…or not…at a given time. Love the discussion and the interplay. Best to you both. Cheers, JPE
Check out Lou Reed’s version of “ Foot of Pride” at the 30th Anniversary concert at MSG, it’s pretty killer. And Lou Reed made great albums in the 80’s!
I used to really love "Infidels". It has lost a little bit of luster for me over the years, but I think it is still a strong album overall. It was one of the first Dylan records that I purchased when I first started getting into his music, so it has a certain place just because of that. I also remember reading a quote from Sinead O'Connor in some Rolling Stone article/list where she mentioned how much she loved "Infidels". It is really hard to separate production techniques from certain eras from the overall quality of select albums. I try not to hold 80s production against albums that were released firmly in the 80s. I mean...that was the sound that was being created then. It is kind of hard to hold that against artists that, regardless of their creative bona fides, are still looking to sell records. It isn't my favorite sound, but I'm less bothered by the production than I am the song selection and song omissions. I dig 'Foot Of Pride' a lot, and obviously, 'Blind Willie McTell' is a masterpiece. I think it would have been difficult to sequence a version of "Infidels" with some of these stronger songs in place of some of the ones that wound up on the finished product, but I think it could have been done. Joe is right in the argument that there is somewhat of a sameness throughout the released version of "Infidels". That may have been by design though. I think "Shot Of Love" sounds a bit like an island of misfit songs, so maybe he wanted an album that sounded more like everything was actually recorded in one place with the same players throughout. Always a gamble to try and figure out what Bob is/was thinking though. I will say that Bob sounds really strong and confident on this album. I think that is one of the things that changes beginning with the next record. After "Infidels", it feels like we enter that period of about 5 years where his confidence is shaken. He writes about it in the section on "Oh Mercy" in "Chronicles, Vol. 1", and it is fascinating insight. Kudos to Dylan Sevey for touching on that in his comments towards the end of this episode.
I'm not super familiar with this album overall but strangely enough, License to Kill was really the first Dylan song I fell in love with. Killer understated groove.
I haven't listened to Infidels in ages. Never been a fan of the 80's for Dylan save Oh Mercy. But relistened with fresh more informed ears this time. I agree with Joe, not a favorite but better than I remembered. The good is very good (Jokerman, License to Kill, Sweetheart Like You) but the balance comes off to me like Dylan shuffling his feet. It is hard to understand why Dylan left excellent songs off these albums - Joe's thoughts make as much sense as anything else. Just seems like Bob is tired of it all. Great discussion. Really appreciate Dylan's comments, helps me to see and hear what's going on in a better light. While Bob's albums have an ebb and flow, this series continues to perform at an incredible level. The discussions have been outstanding, thoughtful and very entertaining. Thanks to you both.
Dylan mentioned it very briefly. But I also think it deserves more respect. When I heard the first bootleg series I was immediately amazed by that one as well as Blind Willie McTell, preferring both to any of the songs on the album.
Greetings from Ireland gentlemen. A fascinating discussion on a fascinating album and era in Dylans history. Been meaning for a while to delve back into his full back catalogue, and these last 24 shows have spurred that on. Some of my own favourites of the lesser celebrated of his albums would be New Mornimg, Shot of Love, and the ultra 80s sheen of what you guys have coming up next - Empire Burlesque.
Here's the song lineup Dylan planned for the album at one point, according to the book The Recording Sessions 1960-1994: Side 1 Jokerman (different vocal) License To Kill Man Of Peace Neighborhood Bully Side 2 Don't Fall Apart on Me Tonight (different vocal) Blind Willie McTell (full band version) Sweetheart Like You (different vocal) I and I Foot Of Pride
Infidels was the first Dylan album i purchased ... I was in Grade 9 at the time of its release ... absolutely played it very regularly .... I rate it quite highly! ... Chow from Burnie, Tasmania
I rate this album higher than either of you. I have it at 4 stars and with the right set list I would have it at 5 stars. Jokerman is a great start. Sweetheart like you is fantastic. The line Dylan quoted “they say patriotism is the last refuge to which a scoundrel clings” is one of his best and the solo by knoffler is possibly the best solo on a Dylan song. Don’t fall apart on me tonight is another great song - love the line “you looked so fine Clark cable would have frll at your feet and laid his life on the line”. License to kill is great. Agree that blind Willie mctell is a masterpiece and foot of pride ot too late, someone’s got a hold of my heart and lord protect my child and tell me could take this to 5 star territory.
I agree with you about Rain Dogs. But, what a triumph to have Joe say that "even Bob's voice" can't redeem this album! (Someone's Got a Hold of My Heart is one of my all-time favorite Dylan songs.)
One of my favorite Dylan albums and one that I still play very often today. I believe he did a European tour first for this one. The US had to wait a bit longer. But I recall him doing I and I, and Jokerman when I did finally get to see him in the states. On a side note, I absolutely adore the guitar solo in Sweetheart Like You. 🎸
@@Randy950 I wasn’t really sure. I’ve had people tell me it was Mark and Mick over the years. But I love both of those guitar legends, so I never really looked into it. Thanks man 👍
This is the one album that I had a bootleg recording before it was released with the omitted songs and some alternate (better) versions. Little to no 80’s production sheen in it. Almost 6 months later the official release stunned me with its glossy production and the exclusion of some the best songs Dylan ever wrote. In time I adjusted to the sound and consider it a top album but, the double album it could’ve been would have rivaled Blonde on Blonde.
Apparently Dylan was going to call this album "Sweethearts" until someone pointed out that it would be his fifth album in a row to start with the letter "S" and he said, "Well, I don't want to get bogged down in the letter 'S'".
Actually, Dylan said in an interview with Kurt Loder that he was going to call the album "Surviving in a Ruthless World." Loder was the one who said he should call it "Sweethearts," with a big smiling picture on the front cover.
@@Turtle152 Ah, thanks for the correction! In any case, two *more* S-titles! "Infidels" is a cool title, especially for his first non-Christian album. Though the title does further muddy up the "Neighborhood Bully" issue.
@@edward8597 In the 80s the word infidel was best-known as part of a Quran quote that was being batted around by Islamophobes. It went something like, "When you encounter the infidels, strike off their heads and make a great slaughter among them." Maybe Bob was implying that WE'RE the infidels who should be slaughtered.
Story is When Bob rung the bell at Zappa fortress in LA they thought he was a bum He was dressin hooded sweatshirt Finally they let him in..but zappas dog kept barking at bob. Bob said to Frank..your dog won’t stop barking at him Frank replied..he doesn’t like Christians, Bob.. LOL Zappa told this story…
Another great review guys, love it. Interesting take (in a good way) from Joe but it’s cool. For meeee the key things that make Dylan Dylan are still here on this album and breakthrough the production. I don’t actually mind the “80s” production on this but I agree that a 70s style production would suit these songs better. But I don’t mind, still an enjoyable listen every time 👍
Richard Thompon’s ‘Daring Adventures’ is a great, underrated 80’s folk rock record Thompson record and John Hiatt’s ‘Bring The Family’ is late 80’s yet still a great 80’s Americana folk rock record
Off the topic of Infidels does anyone have any info of the existence of the “I’m cold” recording session and if it is the likelihood it will be next in the line of the Bootleg series? Speculation is that if this recording session did take place in ‘77 the copyright will be up in a couple of years unless it’s released.
Mr. Sevey's analysis of INFIDELS matches my own. It's a mixed album of the great, good and not-so-good, made more puzzling for the several great songs that were left off. Despite Joe's abhorrence of Dylan's '80s production, he does have a point about "Lord Protect My Child" and "Blind Willie McTell" sounding nothing like the rest of the 'product' on the released album. Clinton Heylin (BOB DYLAN: THE RECORDING SESSIONS) claims this was the original running order of INFIDELS; 1. Jokerman 2, License to Kill 3. Man of Peace 4. Neighbourhood Bully (end of side one) 5. Don't Fall Apart on Me Tonight 6. Blind Willie McTell 7. Sweetheart Like You 8. I and I 9. Foot of Pride According to Heylin, Dylan was dissatisfied with his own vocals and how the album was sounding (too slick) overall. Looking forward to the discussion around the next brace of albums. Great job, guys!
No, because I’ve seen a million artists and articles talk about how amazing he is. I now think he’s a very good vocalist but mostly a lousy singer. - Joe
I actually think Joe will prefer Empire Burlesque. Sure, it is more eighties, but the songs also are more "poppy" and therefore it works better. Its not just the old Dylan with a tacked on arrangement. It comes together better I think. More spark and playfulness to his lyrics as well. Lots of catchy phrases.
Wow, you just have not listened to the same record I have. Except for Union Sundown this is a great record. Just image if Blind Willie McTell was included. I love the bass and drums on this record.
“It would be weird if Nick Cave, or really any poetic-leaning rocker, didn’t worship Bob Dylan. Even when considering the worlds of punk or alternative genres, it’s easy to draw a line of references back to a younger Dylan who constantly pushed the limits and reshaped the form. It’s especially easy to connect the dots between old Robert Zimmerman and the once-raging punk turned spiritualistic poet that is Nick Cave.” - Far Out Magazine “The Bob Dylan Song Nick Cave Called Perplexing but Beautiful” / Lucy Harbron 3-8-24
@michelewiese48 Dylan loved the song You Can't Put Your Arms Around A Memory by Johnny Thunders from the brilliant So Alone album. An album loaded with famous guest stars 🌟 on massive & heavy drugs.
@@davidellis5141There is a common creative thread holding together so many artists I hold dear. ‘Wild God’ struck me on first listen with its beauty. Nick Cave’s songwriting is aging with such grace. Hope you had a wonderful Labor Day weekend, David!
I like this album quite a bit but Blind Willie McTell would have definitely been an even more welcome addition, I agree. It's really going to be interesting to see how the rest of the 80s goes for Joe if this one is only 3 stars.
Im with you Joe on this album. Its tough for Dylan because any album that isn't in his 10 best will be a tough re listen because id just rather reach for Blood on the tracks or O Mercy or Highway 61 etc instead!! Off topic i hope Jason is better. Can't wait for Prince week!!
As recently as 2011, Bob Dylan was performing in Tel Aviv. Before he croaks, he should go on tour with Regina Spektor and Max Oleartchik (ex-Big Thief). Then they can donate all of the profits to AIPAC.
Jokerman - 4.5 Sweetheart Like You - 4.5 Neighborhood Bully - 5 License to Kill - 3.5 Man of Peace - 3.5 Union Sundown - 5 I and I - 4.5 Don't Fall... - 4 4.5 star album
@@TastesLikeMusic Neigbhorhood Bully is a masterpiece along with Jokerman, License to KIll and Don't Fall Apart on Me Tonight. I and I is really great too.
Mark Knopfler was recently on " Desert Island Discs ". Interestingly, he chose a Dylan song as his overall favourite, but it was one that wont appear on this show for quite a while. A small sign that things will eventually get better after the hellish three album journey you're about to embark on 😂.
Cool video once again .... keep an open mind on Empire Burlesque ... you might be surprised ... it is, genuinely, an album I play a lot and enjoy... there are some great songs on it ... and, yes, I do have, pretty much, the full set of albums on CD across the whole catalogue ... including most of the Bootleg series ... saw Dylan at Earls Court in 1981 post Shot of Love release (great gig), in Newcastle on Infidels tour with Mick Taylor ... another great gig ... some of it on Real Live ... (Santana / Lindisfarne as supprt), and also saw him in 89, 91, 93, 98, mid 2000's and 2013 or thereby .... anyway, don't get hung up on the Empire Burlesque LP cover (although pic on the back is not awesome!) ... let the music do its thing ... CMcG, Aberdeen, Scotland (p.s. Street Legal is my, current, top Dylan album ... just "works")
I think it's a superb album and I basically agree with Dylan's opinions on all those individual songs (with one exception). It's a surprise to me that the production bugs you so much, Joe, but I get where you're coming from.
Dylan , I don't know if you're a science minded person, but if you are you have to invent a time machine and go back and see a few of those Dylan shows with Tom Petty backing him. They sounded so good and you could tell they were thrilled to be doing it.. He came out acoustic then TP and The Heartbreakers would join him. then TPaTH would do a set then rinse and repeat. Encore ....epic
Joni Mitchell is a folk artist who still made great albums in the 80s (and did so by adapting to the sound of the era); but I am with Joe here; "Infidels" is one of my least favourite Bob Albums, and the start of his nadir-phase...
Somewhere in the Dylan multiverse there is an Infidels that has a side 3 and 4, that includes BWM, Foot of Pride, Lord Protect, Tell Me, Caribbean Wind, and Death Is Not the End. Like Blonde On Blonde, 14 tracks and just as good, if not better, imo. Thanks, cool video, as always! Btw is it fair to criticise an album made in the 80s for sounding like an album made in the 80s? Stuart
The Christian message is still there, it is just more hidden and not as obvious. Jokerman, I and I and Man of Peace are good examples on this album and there are many more on albums that follow this.
Joe, as you listen to Empire Burlesque, just appreciate that it can still get worse (At least it still has a few good songs like When The Night Comes Falling From The Sky!)
I love Infidels. Bought it when it first came out. Sevey's opinion of Neighborhood Bully is the reason Bob wrote those lyrics. As someone who has dealt with anti-semitism, the lyrics resonate deeply with me
Brilliant episode. Although I loved Infidels on release back in 1983, I think much of Joe's critique is fair, it is musically vapid. The omission of Blind Willie McTell is inexplicable but there are numerous other/better songs that also didn't make the cut. For me, the only real keepers are Jokerman, Sweetheart and License To Kill. Incidentally, it's the electric version of Blind Willie McTell that I particularly love which wouldn't have sounded out of place at all on the LP. I'm very much looking forward to Empire Burlesque. I know it has a bad reputation, perhaps deservedly, but it does have a much broader sonic palate compared to Infidels so it's all to play for! 😀
Hi, i never got into infidels that much, more on an album it came out in 1989, Oh Mercy. i must catch up with Infidels, i must have listened to it not more than 4/5 times
Joe probably listened to the inferior take of "Someone's Got a Hold of My Heart." This is the version that could have been a hit: ruclips.net/video/wQV8z1oGAfM/видео.html Also, Jason should have just been a part of this series all along.
Jokerman ,I and I and License to Kill are the three highlights. I agree with Joe that Shot of Love is better. Joe is gonna hate the next 3, as do I, but stick with it Joe, it gets real good again!
😆 🤣 The passion of Randy ! .. Randy , the first all digital recording was Bop Til You Drop by the great Ry Cooder in 1979. You should check ✔️ before you post ..You Absolutely should ! 😆 🤣
I really love this album. In high rotation for me when it came out. I totally disagree with Joe on this one. Love Knoplfer and this paring. I really like him on Slow Train Coming too (which is my fav of that period). There are 4 songs that have a perfect attack and feel punky to me on this album: "Neighborhood Bully", "License to Kill", "Man of Peace", "Union Sundown" -- these are the core for me. I also love "Jokerman". It may have 80's production tricks that are a bit annoying but I prefer a more focused Bob with an attack vs a Bob who throws a package on your doorstep and says "deal with it". I don't mind a couple of albums done like that but not a career, it can get annoying and sloppy.
This album is up there with New Morning and Street Legal as one of Dylan's most underrated albums. While he got the religion out of his system, Infidels has thinly veiled political themes in songs like Jokerman, License to Kill, Neighborhood Bully, and Union Sundown. My favorite track is I and I, a satirical song about duality of Dylan's personality. Great review guys.
I'm not sure that the emphasis on production is as important as the music being produced. Good music produced poorly is still good music. Four out of five stars in my opinion.
Great episode - I totally agree with everything Joe said apart from his love of 80s pop and R&B, which I can't stand. 80s was great but that was due to metal and alternative rock & punk rock. 80s pop was atrotious.
this was the first Dylan album that I had contemporary to it's release. It was a great album to start with. Empire Burlesque was not too bad either at least not to my 14 year old ears. Even I had to admit that Knocked Out Loaded was shite. But I love Infidels. Dylan Sevey is correct: it could have been much better with the inclusion of Blind Willie McTell.
The "what could've been" album. I actually bought this upon release after reading a positive review in Rolling Stone magazine, and I really enjoyed it. Now, time hasn't been as kind - my favorite songs mirror Dylan's: "Jokerman" and "Licensed to Kill," and I don't dislike any song (other than the message of "Neighborhood Bully." My feelings on this album drifted over time, and then the first Bootleg series album comes out - this could've been a very good to great album. "Blind Willie McTell" needed to be the closer. Now, it is a 3.5 to 4 star album, but it is also infinitely better than what is to come. I do have a soft spot for "Empire Burlesque" (can't wait to see this covered) due to several songs, but "Knocked Out Loaded" and "Down in the Groove' are real hodgepodge affairs (even though one contains the brilliantly strange masterpiece "Brownsville Girl"). But we do have a gem to close out the 80s! I'm sure Dylan loves the decade closer, but I'm most excited (or worried) what Joe will think! Fun series that keeps being must see!
Jokerman is brilliant in any possible way, and only lately i did realize that it should be seen as a complementary piece to Changing of the Guards. the rest is ok, but not remarkable. back then i vaguely liked two or three songs, but never did come back to these. the outtakes, of course: Willie McTell is a masterpiece, and i do rate Foot of Pride very high. (after hearing the mindblowing lou reed live cover.) "foot of pride" is lyrically brilliant, but interestingly dylan's "protest song" lyrics seem to have started at this time to degrade to the one-dimensional rant against greed and "modern !ife" that he came back to later once and again. it is so much worse than all of his 1960s protest and anti-establishment stuff. it has been funny and provoking when he did this in the role of the gospel preacher at the grammys in 1978, but since then it just makes me roll eyes.. about 80ts production: back then sly & robbie were fashionable, and i do like their minimalistic sound. joe cocker had them on sheffield steel, along with 80 synths, and quite surprisingly it was not bad. (although i prefer his early 70s.) the "cold artificial 80ts sound" has been best in a british new wave neo disco context, i liked Heaven 17s Penthouse & Pavement (and mainly listened to postpunk and new wave anyway), but then the formula rapidly degraded around 1983/84 to the "80s charts sound" we all love to hate. from then on, the 80ts musically became a wasteland. (i loved the first dire straits album, and still do, but completely stopped listening to them after they got a keyboard and lost this singular, elastic and filigrane understatement sound.)
Don't sleep on the fact this was Bob's introduction to the world of MTV. Great video for "Sweetheart Like You." Also, how the hell do you own a Dylan album and not listen to it? Both of these records are high points in Bob's career. You have huge problems with this 80s production but think the Rush records weren't overproduced? C'mon man.
@@Randy950 You have no credibility & should dismiss yourself from commenting 🙄 & replying on this channel. All you contribute is inaccurate hostility. ✌️
Joe, Joe, Joe, always backwards? I anticipated this being pretty bad, but was pleasantly surprised that it's not bad! I'm only familiar with "Oh Mercy" which was overrated as the big comeback album! Joe kept saying, his singing is pretty good? No, that's what sucks on this album and every album going forward! I will admit, this one is very 80s and the tone and style doesn't change much, but that's not necessarily a bad thing? I think over all, it's not bad and might be his last really good album?
I completely disagree with Joes assessment. Sounds like he is over-thinking this. I bought infidels when if came out, and it’s one of my favs of his. I also think it’s a quite acsesable album for bob, something to play as an introduction to his music. Also, for your previous video, I was surprised you gave “Lenny Bruce” such heat. I like it, it’s a nice meditative break between the rockier numbers. And if you don’t like the Christian material, it’s a break from that too.
It’s just kind of unremarkable album. Poorly produced. Boring instrumentation for all the big names involved. You really have to be a Dylan fanatic to listen to this over like… anything else from 1983. - Joe
@@TastesLikeMusic I appreciate you replying. Well I was 19 in 1984 and preferred this to a lot of what was going on. I think the production is fine, a little bland in spots I agree. But I can see how if one likes “regular” bob Dylan, this one might not hit the spot. As a side note, I’m a Christian but prefer “shot of love” the best of the 3. I like it’s “garage band” feel - kind of messy in good way. ‘Trouble’ is a high-“light for me.
This is one of the overproduced Dylan albums. Joe is at least right in that respect. It's dark and it's muddled and Dylan's voice is lost in the excessive drums and bass. And you can see that's true by listening to the bootlegs. But the songs themselves are fantastic. Of course Jesus casts bread, and has a snake above both his fists, places children at the feet of a harlot. Yet, this is not a born-again album, but it's a religious and spiritual album. And if Blind Willie McTell was on this album it ends with: God is in our heaven We all want what it's his But power and greed and corruptible sin Seem to be all there is. I will totally agree with Joe on the next album.
This is why I can forgive Joe for his misunderestimation. The Congolese musicians I play with are not rock-n-rollers --- they are into African benga and soukous. To them, rock slides by much the way congolese music slides by a western ear. I cannot increase their appreciation to how I like it. Therefore. To those of us in the eighties, awash in new dub and altmix reggae, Dylan's use of Sly and Robbie was a coup. If the production wasn't stellar, the team did a decent job reggaefying Jokerman --- and the lyrical sentiment of the songs was Rasta and weedy. (The only Dylan my band plays is Blind Willie McTell, so how he left that one off is a mystery) Check out Dylan's contribution to the same-time Sly and Robbie release "Language Barrier"; you get the feeling there was mutual appreciation.
Enjoy first side but second side doesn't hold my attention. Mick Taylor a great guitarist but kind of reduced to repetitive licks / licks somewhat buried in mix in typical torrent of Bob verses. I think album fairly religious, but less Christian. Also Bob a bit angry here. Zappa should have produced this! I too have '85 as worst at least until much later. Will there be blows against the Empire Burlesque?
I was just about to say that I lived through the 80s as a young adult, and all the music and all the great musicians sucked -- except for Swordfish Trombones & Rain Dogs.... But maybe I will take Mr Sevey's advice and not say that here!
A vey cold sterile production ruins it for me despite some good songs plus the problem of leaving off one his greatest songs (Blind Willie) and other good songs off the album
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I am surprised to hear that Joe did not like Infidels. I think Jokerman, Sweetheart Like You, License to Kill, and I and I are all masterpiece songs that are endlessly relistenable. You guys didn’t really touch on I and I that much but it is seriously one of the most underrated songs in his catalogue. I especially Knopfler’a playing on that one, accenting lyrics like “smokin’ down the track” with a great lick.
License To Kill is the lynchpin of the record. It ties the themes of the record together brilliantly. Ultimately, it is an album confronting the excesses of modernity and the innate fallen nature of man. Always get chills when he sings “there’s a woman on my block facing the hills and says who’s gonna take away his license to kill”
As for the more political songs like “Neighbourhood Bully” I guess your enjoyment of the song really depends on where you stand on Israel. It’s unfortunately one of those political issues that is really divisive. I really like it and think it continues to be a very relevant song but I can understand why others might not feel the same way.
Union Sundown on the other hand is awesome. The lyrics are borderline absurd but it just makes the song that much more interesting. I think it is a successful critique of globalism and consumer culture. Dylan even returns to the anti-moon theme with “they used to grow food in Kansas, now they want to grow it on the moon and eat it raw!” Such a memorable line. It reminds me of Tombstone Blues in that way, which I would note he brought back into his set list for the ‘84 Tour with Mick Taylor.
I also like the sentiment behind Man of Peace. A very interesting set of lyrics which complements both Neighbourhood Bully and License to Kill quite well as he contemplates the different forms that evil can take in order to seize power. I think the song is a little too long and the melody not as strong as Jokerman, but I still enjoy it as an album track.
Don’t Fall Apart On Me Tonight is a song I used to consider a throwaway, but at some point it just clicked with me. Really great playing, great drum fills, bass, and an awesome harmonic part from Bob.
So overall, I think about half of the album is amazing and the other half is interspersed with solid album tracks. I can’t give it any less than 4 stars.
After playing around with it for a bit, I've come up with my preferred "Infidels Revisited" tracklist. And, unlike with "Shot Of Love Revisited", all of these tracks/versions are available on Spotify (and probably most other streaming services).
Side One:
1. Jokerman
2. Sweetheart Like You
3. Foot Of Pride (The Bootleg Series, Vols. 1-3 (Rare & Unreleased) 1961-1991)
4. I And I
Side Two:
1. Don't Fall Apart On Me Tonight
2. License to Kill
3. Someone's Got A Hold Of My Heart (The Bootleg Series, Vols. 1-3 (Rare & Unreleased) 1961-1991)
4. Lord Protect My Child (Springtime In New York: The Bootleg Series, Vol. 16 / 1980-1985)
5. Blind Willie McTell (The Bootleg Series, Vols. 1-3 (Rare & Unreleased) 1961-1991)
This version has 9 songs versus 8 songs on the official "Infidels" release, but I've swapped out some of the more middle of the road tracks off of the original and replaced them with songs I personally prefer, and which seem to generally be regarded as stronger by most Dylan fans. I've seen where 'Sweetheart Like You' was not originally supposed to be the second song in a reported early tracklist, but, I've listened to "Infidels" so much over the years that I can't really hear another song besides that after 'Jokerman'. I like 'I and I' after 'Foot Of Pride', and in the position to end Side One. Admittedly, it feels a bit odd to have 'Don't Fall Apart On Me Tonight' opening Side Two because, again, I've listened to the album so much, and that is the album closer. That said, it works better as an opener to Side Two than I first imagined, and 'Blind Willie McTell' is a natural album closer. I didn't originally think I would have the string of 3 outtakes closing out this revised version, but the production on those recordings seems less glossy/more organic than the finished album, so they kind of wound up flowing together better. Having 'Lord Protect My Child' lead into 'Blind Willie McTell' ends the album on a more bluesy and reflective note than where things started. Not perfect...but it was a fun exercise.
open.spotify.com/playlist/0slxYz5Rnt71BDTb2D41nx?si=90b015e421844637
Looking forward to watching this later today. Keep up the great work!
Many here probably already know this but, one of Bob's big promotional appearances for Infidels was on Letterman with The Plugz. He completely changed the arrangement of Joker Man and License to Kill as punk songs! Seems Bob was already changing the Infidels sound. Great discussion guys...thanks.
Check out Daniel Romanos version of the album as if recorded with The Plugz
Playing for change has much better music perhaps it's a little overdone but it shows you what the song can be
ruclips.net/video/MpInpgRMUSM/видео.htmlsi=P6w-W4R9cFID7ROX
Ever since this series started I've been looking forward to the 80s albums! When Joe launches into his dislike of this record the look on Dylan's face says it all: 'If he doesn't like this.......what is he going to think of the next few albums?!' A really enjoyable episode and I'm really looking forward to the next few!
I just want to say what a pleasure it is to discover Dylan (not the singer). It is always interesting to hear your thoughts ! Keep up the good work, both of you.
Always looking forward to a new episode!
This is the first Dylan album I took notice of. The rock magazine I read back then, had bought an American interview with Bob, during rehearsals of Infidels. He complained about radio stations in New Orleans, that only played The Pretenders, when he was hoping for blues music.
This is a great album and was a welcome return to form for Bob. His best of the 80's, I feel.
Great to have this weekly shot of Bob, as I do love this series…and it’s the clear (especially now, gotta say) highlight of the channel! I have great fondness for Infidels..a solid 4 stars from me. I got it when it came out, and loved what I thought was a raunchy sound and some solid rockers and mix of slower tunes. Loved Jokerman, I and I, License to Kill and even Neighbourhood Bully, cringed a little even back in day re Sweetheart (too hippy dippy flower power sounding), and remember that Rolling Stone thought Union Sundown was the album’s highlight (huh?). I thought Dylan sounded great, solid backing band. When those fantastic “lost” songs from the sessions came out on Bootleg Vol. 1-3 all those years later, I was more amazed and impressed than pissed off…I couldn’t believe the quality of the songs, especially Blind Willy of course. How could you not love and respect an artist that has such songs and performances at his command, whether they are on a specific album or not. We have them now, and they are magical. No artist has such a treasure trove as does Dylan. Appreciate it all, however he chooses to release them…or not…at a given time. Love the discussion and the interplay. Best to you both. Cheers, JPE
Thanks James! - Joe
Check out Lou Reed’s version of “ Foot of Pride” at the 30th Anniversary concert at MSG, it’s pretty killer. And Lou Reed made great albums in the 80’s!
I used to really love "Infidels". It has lost a little bit of luster for me over the years, but I think it is still a strong album overall. It was one of the first Dylan records that I purchased when I first started getting into his music, so it has a certain place just because of that. I also remember reading a quote from Sinead O'Connor in some Rolling Stone article/list where she mentioned how much she loved "Infidels".
It is really hard to separate production techniques from certain eras from the overall quality of select albums. I try not to hold 80s production against albums that were released firmly in the 80s. I mean...that was the sound that was being created then. It is kind of hard to hold that against artists that, regardless of their creative bona fides, are still looking to sell records. It isn't my favorite sound, but I'm less bothered by the production than I am the song selection and song omissions. I dig 'Foot Of Pride' a lot, and obviously, 'Blind Willie McTell' is a masterpiece. I think it would have been difficult to sequence a version of "Infidels" with some of these stronger songs in place of some of the ones that wound up on the finished product, but I think it could have been done. Joe is right in the argument that there is somewhat of a sameness throughout the released version of "Infidels". That may have been by design though. I think "Shot Of Love" sounds a bit like an island of misfit songs, so maybe he wanted an album that sounded more like everything was actually recorded in one place with the same players throughout. Always a gamble to try and figure out what Bob is/was thinking though.
I will say that Bob sounds really strong and confident on this album. I think that is one of the things that changes beginning with the next record. After "Infidels", it feels like we enter that period of about 5 years where his confidence is shaken. He writes about it in the section on "Oh Mercy" in "Chronicles, Vol. 1", and it is fascinating insight. Kudos to Dylan Sevey for touching on that in his comments towards the end of this episode.
Pretty good comeback for Dylan! I'd give it 4 stars. The production is no problem for me in this one. I'd even say it's good production!
Better review and conversation than record, one of your best!
Good man Dylan with the Tom Waits love, quickly having the best takes on the channel.
I'm not super familiar with this album overall but strangely enough, License to Kill was really the first Dylan song I fell in love with. Killer understated groove.
I haven't listened to Infidels in ages. Never been a fan of the 80's for Dylan save Oh Mercy. But relistened with fresh more informed ears this time. I agree with Joe, not a favorite but better than I remembered. The good is very good (Jokerman, License to Kill, Sweetheart Like You) but the balance comes off to me like Dylan shuffling his feet.
It is hard to understand why Dylan left excellent songs off these albums - Joe's thoughts make as much sense as anything else. Just seems like Bob is tired of it all.
Great discussion. Really appreciate Dylan's comments, helps me to see and hear what's going on in a better light. While Bob's albums have an ebb and flow, this series continues to perform at an incredible level. The discussions have been outstanding, thoughtful and very entertaining. Thanks to you both.
Thank youuuu
What, no mention of Foot Of Pride?
Dylan mentioned it very briefly. But I also think it deserves more respect. When I heard the first bootleg series I was immediately amazed by that one as well as Blind Willie McTell, preferring both to any of the songs on the album.
Greetings from Ireland gentlemen. A fascinating discussion on a fascinating album and era in Dylans history. Been meaning for a while to delve back into his full back catalogue, and these last 24 shows have spurred that on.
Some of my own favourites of the lesser celebrated of his albums would be New Mornimg, Shot of Love, and the ultra 80s sheen of what you guys have coming up next - Empire Burlesque.
I love "Jokerman" and "I and I" and Dylan's return to credibility with Infidels.
Credibility, LOL!
Here's the song lineup Dylan planned for the album at one point, according to the book The Recording Sessions 1960-1994:
Side 1
Jokerman (different vocal)
License To Kill
Man Of Peace
Neighborhood Bully
Side 2
Don't Fall Apart on Me Tonight (different vocal)
Blind Willie McTell (full band version)
Sweetheart Like You (different vocal)
I and I
Foot Of Pride
Infidels was the first Dylan album i purchased ... I was in Grade 9 at the time of its release ... absolutely played it very regularly .... I rate it quite highly! ... Chow from Burnie, Tasmania
I love all of the songs on the album
I rate this album higher than either of you. I have it at 4 stars and with the right set list I would have it at 5 stars. Jokerman is a great start. Sweetheart like you is fantastic. The line Dylan quoted “they say patriotism is the last refuge to which a scoundrel clings” is one of his best and the solo by knoffler is possibly the best solo on a Dylan song. Don’t fall apart on me tonight is another great song - love the line “you looked so fine Clark cable would have frll at your feet and laid his life on the line”. License to kill is great. Agree that blind Willie mctell is a masterpiece and foot of pride ot too late, someone’s got a hold of my heart and lord protect my child and tell me could take this to 5 star territory.
I agree with you about Rain Dogs. But, what a triumph to have Joe say that "even Bob's voice" can't redeem this album! (Someone's Got a Hold of My Heart is one of my all-time favorite Dylan songs.)
One of my favorite Dylan albums and one that I still play very often today. I believe he did a European tour first for this one. The US had to wait a bit longer. But I recall him doing I and I, and Jokerman when I did finally get to see him in the states.
On a side note, I absolutely adore the guitar solo in Sweetheart Like You. 🎸
That's Mick Taylor from the Stones.
@@Randy950 I wasn’t really sure. I’ve had people tell me it was Mark and Mick over the years. But I love both of those guitar legends, so I never really looked into it. Thanks man 👍
Thoroughly agree on Blind Willie McTell. My favourite track on the Bootleg Series 1-3 set
Dylan great comment on musk and space!
This is the one album that I had a bootleg recording before it was released with the omitted songs and some alternate (better) versions.
Little to no 80’s production sheen in it. Almost 6 months later the official release stunned me with its glossy production and the exclusion of some the best songs Dylan ever wrote.
In time I adjusted to the sound and consider it a top album but, the double album it could’ve been would have rivaled Blonde on Blonde.
Blonde on Blonde? If every good song he wrote in the 80s were all on one disc it still wouldn’t be as good. - Joe
You are only on 1983, hate to think you’re pre-judging the rest of the decade. There are easily 12 masterpieces in this decade.
You are only on 1983, hate to think you’re pre-judging the rest of the decade. There are easily 12 masterpieces in this decade.
Apparently Dylan was going to call this album "Sweethearts" until someone pointed out that it would be his fifth album in a row to start with the letter "S" and he said, "Well, I don't want to get bogged down in the letter 'S'".
Actually, Dylan said in an interview with Kurt Loder that he was going to call the album "Surviving in a Ruthless World." Loder was the one who said he should call it "Sweethearts," with a big smiling picture on the front cover.
@@Turtle152 Ah, thanks for the correction! In any case, two *more* S-titles! "Infidels" is a cool title, especially for his first non-Christian album. Though the title does further muddy up the "Neighborhood Bully" issue.
@@edward8597 In the 80s the word infidel was best-known as part of a Quran quote that was being batted around by Islamophobes. It went something like, "When you encounter the infidels, strike off their heads and make a great slaughter among them." Maybe Bob was implying that WE'RE the infidels who should be slaughtered.
Story is
When Bob rung the bell at Zappa fortress in LA they thought he was a bum
He was dressin hooded sweatshirt
Finally they let him in..but zappas dog kept barking at bob.
Bob said to Frank..your dog won’t stop barking at him
Frank replied..he doesn’t like Christians, Bob..
LOL
Zappa told this story…
License To Kill has long been one of my favourite Bob songs. Jokerman is now a favourite - but it took years and many listens for it sink in.
Another great review guys, love it. Interesting take (in a good way) from Joe but it’s cool. For meeee the key things that make Dylan Dylan are still here on this album and breakthrough the production. I don’t actually mind the “80s” production on this but I agree that a 70s style production would suit these songs better. But I don’t mind, still an enjoyable listen every time 👍
Love this album❤
Dear God ~ thank you for Bob Dylan
Good album with some very good songs here and there. I think its his best of the 80s
Foot Of Pride needs some love!
Richard Thompon’s ‘Daring Adventures’ is a great, underrated 80’s folk rock record Thompson record and John Hiatt’s ‘Bring The Family’ is late 80’s yet still a great 80’s Americana folk rock record
Off the topic of Infidels does anyone have any info of the existence of the “I’m cold” recording session and if it is the likelihood it will be next in the line of the Bootleg series? Speculation is that if this recording session did take place in ‘77 the copyright will be up in a couple of years unless it’s released.
Mr. Sevey's analysis of INFIDELS matches my own. It's a mixed album of the great, good and not-so-good, made more puzzling for the several great songs that were left off. Despite Joe's abhorrence of Dylan's '80s production, he does have a point about "Lord Protect My Child" and "Blind Willie McTell" sounding nothing like the rest of the 'product' on the released album.
Clinton Heylin (BOB DYLAN: THE RECORDING SESSIONS) claims this was the original running order of INFIDELS;
1. Jokerman
2, License to Kill
3. Man of Peace
4. Neighbourhood Bully (end of side one)
5. Don't Fall Apart on Me Tonight
6. Blind Willie McTell
7. Sweetheart Like You
8. I and I
9. Foot of Pride
According to Heylin, Dylan was dissatisfied with his own vocals and how the album was sounding (too slick) overall.
Looking forward to the discussion around the next brace of albums.
Great job, guys!
Question for Joe…
Do you think Dylan is underrated as a vocalist?
No, because I’ve seen a million artists and articles talk about how amazing he is. I now think he’s a very good vocalist but mostly a lousy singer. - Joe
@@TastesLikeMusic In what sense would you separate the two? What makes him a very good vocalist and what makes him a lousy singer in your view?
Can’t wait to hear Joe’s review of Empire Burlesque. 😂🤣
I actually think Joe will prefer Empire Burlesque. Sure, it is more eighties, but the songs also are more "poppy" and therefore it works better. Its not just the old Dylan with a tacked on arrangement. It comes together better I think.
More spark and playfulness to his lyrics as well. Lots of catchy phrases.
Wow, you just have not listened to the same record I have. Except for Union Sundown this is a great record. Just image if Blind Willie McTell was included. I love the bass and drums on this record.
The advertisement before the video was for Wild God , The new Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds album.
I’ll be sending RUclips a strongly worded message. -Jason
“It would be weird if Nick Cave, or really any poetic-leaning rocker, didn’t worship Bob Dylan. Even when considering the worlds of punk or alternative genres, it’s easy to draw a line of references back to a younger Dylan who constantly pushed the limits and reshaped the form. It’s especially easy to connect the dots between old Robert Zimmerman and the once-raging punk turned spiritualistic poet that is Nick Cave.”
- Far Out Magazine “The Bob Dylan Song Nick Cave Called Perplexing but Beautiful” / Lucy Harbron 3-8-24
@michelewiese48 Dylan loved the song You Can't Put Your Arms Around A Memory by Johnny Thunders from the brilliant So Alone album. An album loaded with famous guest stars 🌟 on massive & heavy drugs.
A much better album than anything Dylan has ever released, even if it’s probably only the 8th or 9th best Nick Cave album.
@@davidellis5141There is a common creative thread holding together so many artists I hold dear. ‘Wild God’ struck me on first listen with its beauty. Nick Cave’s songwriting is aging with such grace. Hope you had a wonderful Labor Day weekend, David!
I like this album quite a bit but Blind Willie McTell would have definitely been an even more welcome addition, I agree. It's really going to be interesting to see how the rest of the 80s goes for Joe if this one is only 3 stars.
All credibility went out the window when you say you don't like Brothers In Arms, dude. One of the great albums.
It’s a 3.5
The big clue is the album title.
Im with you Joe on this album. Its tough for Dylan because any album that isn't in his 10 best will be a tough re listen because id just rather reach for Blood on the tracks or O Mercy or Highway 61 etc instead!!
Off topic i hope Jason is better.
Can't wait for Prince week!!
As recently as 2011, Bob Dylan was performing in Tel Aviv. Before he croaks, he should go on tour with Regina Spektor and Max Oleartchik (ex-Big Thief). Then they can donate all of the profits to AIPAC.
Jokerman - 4.5
Sweetheart Like You - 4.5
Neighborhood Bully - 5
License to Kill - 3.5
Man of Peace - 3.5
Union Sundown - 5
I and I - 4.5
Don't Fall... - 4
4.5 star album
No way. Neighborhood Bully a 5? That’s wild. - Joe
@@179rich I agree with most of your ratings. Union Sundown is awesome! So underrated. Neighbourhood Bully is good too.
@@TastesLikeMusic Neigbhorhood Bully is a masterpiece along with Jokerman, License to KIll and Don't Fall Apart on Me Tonight. I and I is really great too.
@@TastesLikeMusic I wish I could talk to you about that song here, but this particular environment makes that impossible.
Mark Knopfler was recently on " Desert Island Discs ". Interestingly, he chose a Dylan song as his overall favourite, but it was one that wont appear on this show for quite a while. A small sign that things will eventually get better after the hellish three album journey you're about to embark on 😂.
Cool video once again .... keep an open mind on Empire Burlesque ... you might be surprised ... it is, genuinely, an album I play a lot and enjoy... there are some great songs on it ... and, yes, I do have, pretty much, the full set of albums on CD across the whole catalogue ... including most of the Bootleg series ... saw Dylan at Earls Court in 1981 post Shot of Love release (great gig), in Newcastle on Infidels tour with Mick Taylor ... another great gig ... some of it on Real Live ... (Santana / Lindisfarne as supprt), and also saw him in 89, 91, 93, 98, mid 2000's and 2013 or thereby .... anyway, don't get hung up on the Empire Burlesque LP cover (although pic on the back is not awesome!) ... let the music do its thing ... CMcG, Aberdeen, Scotland (p.s. Street Legal is my, current, top Dylan album ... just "works")
I was at Newcastle 1984 too, it was a magical show, definitely in my all time top 3 😎
In Zappa ‘s book, supposedly Bob shows up at Franks door. Frank says” Bob , you can come in, but warning you, my dog don’t like no Christians” lol
I think it's a superb album and I basically agree with Dylan's opinions on all those individual songs (with one exception). It's a surprise to me that the production bugs you so much, Joe, but I get where you're coming from.
Dylan , I don't know if you're a science minded person, but if you are you have to invent a time machine and go back and see a few of those Dylan shows with Tom Petty backing him. They sounded so good and you could tell they were thrilled to be doing it.. He came out acoustic then TP and The Heartbreakers would join him. then TPaTH would do a set then rinse and repeat. Encore ....epic
I'd love to hear the "Mark Knopfler as producer" version of this album. He criticized the song selection, and also the "demo quality" of the mixing.
Not video related, but I want to let Joe know that I saw Alvvays in concert last Saturday and it was great seeing them live again.
Named after the Tom Verlaine song Always & titled a song Tom Verlaine. Good taste.
When this is done, some innovative college should offer this as a college course….
For the first time, I agree more with Joe. Dylan's political interpretation of Bob Dylan's lyrics is offputting.
I can't wait for the episode on Under The Red Sky
Joni Mitchell is a folk artist who still made great albums in the 80s (and did so by adapting to the sound of the era); but I am with Joe here; "Infidels" is one of my least favourite Bob Albums, and the start of his nadir-phase...
I thought this album sounded more religious than his religious albums.
Somewhere in the Dylan multiverse there is an Infidels that has a side 3 and 4, that includes BWM, Foot of Pride, Lord Protect, Tell Me, Caribbean Wind, and Death Is Not the End. Like Blonde On Blonde, 14 tracks and just as good, if not better, imo.
Thanks, cool video, as always! Btw is it fair to criticise an album made in the 80s for sounding like an album made in the 80s? Stuart
Of course it is. Bob didn’t have to choose Knopfler to produce. - Joe
And yet Joe loved Saved. Go figure! I always have been very fond of Infidels. All bets are off on Empire Burlesque.
The Christian message is still there, it is just more hidden and not as obvious. Jokerman, I and I and Man of Peace are good examples on this album and there are many more on albums that follow this.
Joe, as you listen to Empire Burlesque, just appreciate that it can still get worse (At least it still has a few good songs like When The Night Comes Falling From The Sky!)
Damn good album.
Only 8 songs.
I love Infidels. Bought it when it first came out. Sevey's opinion of Neighborhood Bully is the reason Bob wrote those lyrics. As someone who has dealt with anti-semitism, the lyrics resonate deeply with me
Brilliant episode. Although I loved Infidels on release back in 1983, I think much of Joe's critique is fair, it is musically vapid. The omission of Blind Willie McTell is inexplicable but there are numerous other/better songs that also didn't make the cut. For me, the only real keepers are Jokerman, Sweetheart and License To Kill. Incidentally, it's the electric version of Blind Willie McTell that I particularly love which wouldn't have sounded out of place at all on the LP. I'm very much looking forward to Empire Burlesque. I know it has a bad reputation, perhaps deservedly, but it does have a much broader sonic palate compared to Infidels so it's all to play for! 😀
Hi, i never got into infidels that much, more on an album it came out in 1989, Oh Mercy. i must catch up with Infidels, i must have listened to it not more than 4/5 times
Only Dylan album I like🤘
It's amazing. In my top 5 Dylan albums for sure.
Joe probably listened to the inferior take of "Someone's Got a Hold of My Heart." This is the version that could have been a hit: ruclips.net/video/wQV8z1oGAfM/видео.html
Also, Jason should have just been a part of this series all along.
Jokerman ,I and I and License to Kill are the three highlights. I agree with Joe that Shot of Love is better. Joe is gonna hate the next 3, as do I, but stick with it Joe, it gets real good again!
Hey man
Have my own channel..what a great series…..
M from wv but still consider Joe and his daddy homeboys…..
Best thing on RUclips, man….t
And I know no one can sing the blues
Like Blind Boy Grunt
No Mobile Fidelity Controversy Here. This , Is An All Digital Affair.
Absolutely not, Dire Straits Brothers in Arms was the first all digital record.
😆 🤣 The passion of Randy ! .. Randy , the first all digital recording was Bop Til You Drop by the great Ry Cooder in 1979. You should check ✔️ before you post ..You Absolutely should ! 😆 🤣
Oh Joe… what have you done.
Not going to lose any sleep over this one that’s for sure. - Joe
I really love this album. In high rotation for me when it came out. I totally disagree with Joe on this one. Love Knoplfer and this paring. I really like him on Slow Train Coming too (which is my fav of that period). There are 4 songs that have a perfect attack and feel punky to me on this album: "Neighborhood Bully", "License to Kill", "Man of Peace", "Union Sundown" -- these are the core for me. I also love "Jokerman". It may have 80's production tricks that are a bit annoying but I prefer a more focused Bob with an attack vs a Bob who throws a package on your doorstep and says "deal with it". I don't mind a couple of albums done like that but not a career, it can get annoying and sloppy.
This album is up there with New Morning and Street Legal as one of Dylan's most underrated albums. While he got the religion out of his system, Infidels has thinly veiled political themes in songs like Jokerman, License to Kill, Neighborhood Bully, and Union Sundown. My favorite track is I and I, a satirical song about duality of Dylan's personality. Great review guys.
Not much thinly veiled about "Neighborhood Bully" and "Union Sundown" 😆
I'm not sure that the emphasis on production is as important as the music being produced. Good music produced poorly is still good music. Four out of five stars in my opinion.
I and I.
Best cover of Licence to Kill in my view is by Richie Havens
Great episode - I totally agree with everything Joe said apart from his love of 80s pop and R&B, which I can't stand. 80s was great but that was due to metal and alternative rock & punk rock. 80s pop was atrotious.
Prince, MJ, Madonna, no good!? - Joe
Dylan I like your haircut!!
Not a big fan of this album but always thought Don't Fall Apart on Me Tonight was a good song.
this was the first Dylan album that I had contemporary to it's release. It was a great album to start with. Empire Burlesque was not too bad either at least not to my 14 year old ears. Even I had to admit that Knocked Out Loaded was shite. But I love Infidels. Dylan Sevey is correct: it could have been much better with the inclusion of Blind Willie McTell.
Haircut 100
The "what could've been" album. I actually bought this upon release after reading a positive review in Rolling Stone magazine, and I really enjoyed it. Now, time hasn't been as kind - my favorite songs mirror Dylan's: "Jokerman" and "Licensed to Kill," and I don't dislike any song (other than the message of "Neighborhood Bully." My feelings on this album drifted over time, and then the first Bootleg series album comes out - this could've been a very good to great album. "Blind Willie McTell" needed to be the closer. Now, it is a 3.5 to 4 star album, but it is also infinitely better than what is to come. I do have a soft spot for "Empire Burlesque" (can't wait to see this covered) due to several songs, but "Knocked Out Loaded" and "Down in the Groove' are real hodgepodge affairs (even though one contains the brilliantly strange masterpiece "Brownsville Girl"). But we do have a gem to close out the 80s! I'm sure Dylan loves the decade closer, but I'm most excited (or worried) what Joe will think! Fun series that keeps being must see!
Jokerman is brilliant in any possible way, and only lately i did realize that it should be seen as a complementary piece to Changing of the Guards. the rest is ok, but not remarkable. back then i vaguely liked two or three songs, but never did come back to these. the outtakes, of course: Willie McTell is a masterpiece, and i do rate Foot of Pride very high. (after hearing the mindblowing lou reed live cover.)
"foot of pride" is lyrically brilliant, but interestingly dylan's "protest song" lyrics seem to have started at this time to degrade to the one-dimensional rant against greed and "modern !ife" that he came back to later once and again. it is so much worse than all of his 1960s protest and anti-establishment stuff. it has been funny and provoking when he did this in the role of the gospel preacher at the grammys in 1978, but since then it just makes me roll eyes..
about 80ts production: back then sly & robbie were fashionable, and i do like their minimalistic sound. joe cocker had them on sheffield steel, along with 80 synths, and quite surprisingly it was not bad. (although i prefer his early 70s.) the "cold artificial 80ts sound" has been best in a british new wave neo disco context, i liked Heaven 17s Penthouse & Pavement (and mainly listened to postpunk and new wave anyway), but then the formula rapidly degraded around 1983/84 to the "80s charts sound" we all love to hate. from then on, the 80ts musically became a wasteland. (i loved the first dire straits album, and still do, but completely stopped listening to them after they got a keyboard and lost this singular, elastic and filigrane understatement sound.)
Don't sleep on the fact this was Bob's introduction to the world of MTV. Great video for "Sweetheart Like You." Also, how the hell do you own a Dylan album and not listen to it? Both of these records are high points in Bob's career. You have huge problems with this 80s production but think the Rush records weren't overproduced? C'mon man.
@@Randy950 You have no credibility & should dismiss yourself from commenting 🙄 & replying on this channel. All you contribute is inaccurate hostility. ✌️
Rush was able to harness the 80s by completely reinventing themselves. This just sounds like Bob-lite with bad production. - Joe
Joe, Joe, Joe, always backwards? I anticipated this being pretty bad, but was pleasantly surprised that it's not bad! I'm only familiar with "Oh Mercy" which was overrated as the big comeback album! Joe kept saying, his singing is pretty good? No, that's what sucks on this album and every album going forward! I will admit, this one is very 80s and the tone and style doesn't change much, but that's not necessarily a bad thing? I think over all, it's not bad and might be his last really good album?
Union Sundown and Neighbourhood Bully are easily the worst two tracks in the album
@@IrishFootyVlogs I don’t understand the hate for Union Sundown, really memorable lyrics, great guitar playing. A unique song in Bob’s catalogue.
I completely disagree with Joes assessment. Sounds like he is over-thinking this. I bought infidels when if came out, and it’s one of my favs of his. I also think it’s a quite acsesable album for bob, something to play as an introduction to his music. Also, for your previous video, I was surprised you gave “Lenny Bruce” such heat. I like it, it’s a nice meditative break between the rockier numbers. And if you don’t like the Christian material, it’s a break from that too.
It’s just kind of unremarkable album. Poorly produced. Boring instrumentation for all the big names involved. You really have to be a Dylan fanatic to listen to this over like… anything else from 1983. - Joe
@@TastesLikeMusic I appreciate you replying. Well I was 19 in 1984 and preferred this to a lot of what was going on. I think the production is fine, a little bland in spots I agree. But I can see how if one likes “regular” bob Dylan, this one might not hit the spot. As a side note, I’m a Christian but prefer “shot of love” the best of the 3. I like it’s “garage band” feel - kind of messy in good way. ‘Trouble’ is a high-“light for me.
This is one of the overproduced Dylan albums. Joe is at least right in that respect. It's dark and it's muddled and Dylan's voice is lost in the excessive drums and bass.
And you can see that's true by listening to the bootlegs.
But the songs themselves are fantastic. Of course Jesus casts bread, and has a snake above both his fists, places children at the feet of a harlot. Yet, this is not a born-again album, but it's a religious and spiritual album.
And if Blind Willie McTell was on this album it ends with:
God is in our heaven
We all want what it's his
But power and greed and corruptible sin
Seem to be all there is.
I will totally agree with Joe on the next album.
Add Blind Willie McTell & Foot Of Pride instead of coupla weaker tracks, you got yourself a potential 5star album.
No album with production this bad could be 5-stars even if it was his greatest hits. - Joe
Production is a function of its time. I'm listening to songs not production. There is the song....and there is how it is recorded. Different things.
This is why I can forgive Joe for his misunderestimation. The Congolese musicians I play with are not rock-n-rollers --- they are into African benga and soukous. To them, rock slides by much the way congolese music slides by a western ear. I cannot increase their appreciation to how I like it. Therefore. To those of us in the eighties, awash in new dub and altmix reggae, Dylan's use of Sly and Robbie was a coup. If the production wasn't stellar, the team did a decent job reggaefying Jokerman --- and the lyrical sentiment of the songs was Rasta and weedy. (The only Dylan my band plays is Blind Willie McTell, so how he left that one off is a mystery) Check out Dylan's contribution to the same-time Sly and Robbie release "Language Barrier"; you get the feeling there was mutual appreciation.
It has nothing to do with what Sly and Robbie are doing. They’re great. - Joe
Enjoy first side but second side doesn't hold my attention. Mick Taylor a great guitarist but kind of reduced to repetitive licks / licks somewhat buried in mix in typical torrent of Bob verses. I think album fairly religious, but less Christian. Also Bob a bit angry here. Zappa should have produced this! I too have '85 as worst at least until much later. Will there be blows against the Empire Burlesque?
I was just about to say that I lived through the 80s as a young adult, and all the music and all the great musicians sucked -- except for Swordfish Trombones & Rain Dogs.... But maybe I will take Mr Sevey's advice and not say that here!
A vey cold sterile production ruins it for me despite some good songs plus the problem of leaving off one his greatest songs (Blind Willie) and other good songs off the album