Review of Theme Time Radio Hour
hosted by Bob Dylan
on xm satellite radio (Channel 15, 40)
You don't need a weatherman to know which way the wind blows, but a good DJ does help.
Bob Dylan began his much anticipated hosting of Theme Time Radio Hour on xm radio by suggesting that "if you want to know about the weather, just look outside." In his latest incarnation and public persona of DJ and music fan Dylan chose rather to look back and inside the deep, rich cavern which is American music , with a special emphasis on roots music pre 1960.
The stated "theme" of the hour was that of "weather" and each of the songs Dylan handpicked in some way uses nature and atomospheric phenomena as a metaphor for the human condition. Of course, Dylan the artist beautifully highlights and frames these sonic moments in a manner that would make Shelley and Keats proud.
Dylan's voice was understated yet enchanting, providing unique insights into the inspiration and social fabric surrounding many of the songs played. Unbeknownst to many casual fans of his music Dylan is as well versed in the History of American music as any scholar or academic, and after nearly fifty years of touring and travelling, has insights and access to tidbits through his many personal contacts and encounters which few if any academic types can lay claim to. He preceded the playing of "I Don't Care If the Sun Don't Shine" by Dean Martin by saying "We forget how much Elvis wanted to be Dean," and framed the potent 1953 classic "Just Walking In the Rain" by The Prisonaires by telling the the dark tale of how the song's author Johnny Bragg (who along with the other Prisonaires was an inmate at Tennessee State Prison) was sentenced to 99 years in prison for rape, explaining however that this was in the Jim Crow south and a questionable charge at best. Bob added that Bragg was released but later was confined a second time after being considered to have violated his parole because he was simply seen in a car with a white woman, who happened to be his wife.
There was a generous helping of R & B with a heavy southern flavor, and it was particulary sweet to hear "It's Raining" by the Soul Queen of New Orleans, Irma Thomas, as well as "Uncloudy Day" by the Staple Singers. Dylan's admiration for "Pops" Staples was evident as he introduced this soulful piece. Other songs with rain as a the subject were "Raining In My Heart" by blues great Slim Harpo, and "Stormy Weather" by the Doo-Woopers The Spaniels.
As the show progressed the mix became more eclectic, with songs by Jimi Hendrix ("The Wind Cries Mary"), Judy Garland ("Come Rain, Come Shine"), Stevie Wonder (an Italian version of "Place In the Sun") and Frank Sinatra ("Summer Wind").
There was obviously great thought and planning put into the program. It seemed Dylan wanted to cover a broad range of musical genres in this segment. There were no calls taken from listeners and no emails answered (as had been previously advertised by xm). This would have been fun to hear, and perhaps listener interaction will be a part of future shows.
Dylan sounded thoroughly comfortable and at home in this arena. Since he himself has such a deep appreciation (as well as knowledge) of all kinds of music, this love can't help but shine through. He reminds us that a DJ is not just a functionary, but can be an artist in his or her own right -- presentation, staging and delivery are indeed a creative process.
Before signing off Bob left us with this cryptic nugget; "If you think the summer sun is too hot, just remember that you don't have to shovel it."
