Our 17th show featuring the music of Bob Dylan represents yet another significant turning point in his career, one that still holds true today. As Dylan relates the tale in his autobiography, the sessions for “Oh Mercy” were grueling, but you could never tell by the resultant music.

Song for song, “Oh Mercy” is one of the most consistent albums Dylan ever recorded. Lyrically, Dylan is focused and persuasive. Musically, the production work of Daniel Lanois maintains a spooky, otherworldly feel that compliments the atmosphere established by Dylan’s lyrics.

It also provides a unique, identifiable sound that separates Dylan’s work from the pack of artists who were becoming mired in the glossy, synthetic, digital production that defines that era. Ever since “Oh Mercy,” Dylan’s work has been characterized by excellent musicianship and songwriting that proudly displays a deep familiarity with the ‘Great American Folk Songbook.’

Here is a list of songs featured in this program;

Political World

Everything Is Broken

Man with the Long Black Coat

Most of the Time

What Was It You Wanted

Where Teardrops Fall

Ring Them Bells

What Good Am I?

Disease of Conceit

Shooting Star

Dignity

Series of Dreams