Robbie is more noted for bringing a wicked sense of humour to his tunes but this one certainly is an exception. He may have origionally conceived of it as humourous but I think it was producer Steve Albini who convinced him to play it totally straight. What they got was one of the most harrowing listening experiences ever.

This song is a "new country" music fan's worst nightmare. This is the kind of song that they are afraid people will think they like when they admit to liking country music. Faron had learned his Hank Williams lessons very well before setting this one down.

For those not yet ready for France Gall/Serge Gainsbourg quite yet. This is Elinor Blake's (aka April March) English language version of "Laisse Tomber Les Filles" written by Gainsbourg and made famous by Gall. I prefer this meatier version to the France Gall original but it did get me to go out and purchase my first France Gall CD. The CD also contains a French language version of the same song.

An Ennio Morricone/flamenco/mariachi combination perhaps? I'm afraid I'm unable to adequately describe the majesty of this recording. It was included in the CD that accompanied the July 1999 issue of Uncut magazine and is also available on the "The Ride (pt 2)" single. Even if you have the shorter version on The Black Light, you'll want to hear this.

Time to get our your hankies. There aren't too many singers who can make you believe every word they sing but Iris is one of those few. And when she's sings a song this sad, you'll be wiping away the tears long before the 6:49 passes by.