With a title like Beware and a jet black cover on which Will Oldham's head looks remarkably like a skull, all signs seem to indicate that Will Oldham is going to serve his fans a very heavy album. A first listen, however, proves the opposite, because Beware has become a traditional sounding country rock record. That 'beware' therefore probably refers more to the well-kept production. This time Prince
… Billy dresses up his songs with steel guitar, mandolin, accordion and even a cornet. And then there is also the gospel choir that gives songs like Beware Your Only Friend and You Don't Love Me a tidy feeling. However, self-proclaimed griefs need not grieve. There is also something for them on Beware, such as the moody Heart's Arms in which Oldham asks a good friend (or girlfriend?): Why don't you write me anymore? What did you bind my heart's arms for? '. Beware is a varied album that the listener does not need to approach with caution. (PdK)more
