By the end of 2008 Cardinology by Ryan Adams and the Cardinals found a place on several year end, best of lists. Since forming the Cardinals, the ever prolific Adams has hit a groove of, it seems, regularly scheduled records. More than one new album a year is a dizzying pace in the current music business.The band's consistency is admirable, but the last few good Cardinals albums could have been consolidated into one great one. Cardinology is as close to a great one as the Cardinals have made yet. Is it one of the best of 2008? In a year when country music is as throwaway as the most banal pop music, the Cardinals are a safe bet for rock listmakers trying to include every genre.
Adams casts a curious figure. A country singer from the big city. He writes about intimate issues, but with enough literary illusion to gunk up the works. He is specific enough to make a point, but vague enough to prompt alternate interpretations.
The Cardinals, no longer just a backing band, are as smooth as they come, and more tasteful than they need be. The musicianship and production is bright and clean.
Cardinology is a mellow affair, with the most accessible and memorable tracks peaking in the middle. The effortless quality in songs like "Magick," "Cobwebs" and "Let Us Down Easy" demonstrate the band's strengths. It has taken the band a few albums and plenty of hard work, but it seems Cardinology may just be the belief in effortless quality.
