Album Review: “Blood On The Tracks” By Bob Dylan

Dylan’s 15th studio album saw the singer-songwriter reclaim much of his traditional orchestration from his glory days back in the ’60s. The poetry, acoustic instrumentation, and everything that made Dylan “Dylan” is taken to a personal level as Blood On The Tracks was allegedly influenced by his failing marriage to his wife of 10 years, Sara.

“Tangled Up In Blue” opens the album with an odd contrast of a melodic arrangement but inlaid with melancholic lyrics of a lost love. “Simple Twist Of Fate” is a barebones guitar-only work that has the same themes of sadness but amplified through a descending progression. “You’re A Big Girl Now” appeals to the adult contemporary section, while “Idiot Wind” is more of an aggressive and indifferent take with an evocative progression to boot. Closing the first side is “You’re Gonna Make Me Lonesome When You Go” is a forced smile through the pain of the lyrics, with the catchy arrangement disguising the theme quite well.

“Meet Me In The Morning” takes on the bluesy route which could’ve worked better in a rock arrangement, while “Lily, Rosemary and the Jack of Hearts” is a lengthy 9-minute country jam. “If You See Her, Say Hello” follows with its slow and indulgent sadness and paced instrumentation. “Shelter From The Storm” carries a simplistic pop arrangement with an evocative lyric to match, while album closer “Buckets Of Rain” concludes the whole theme of heartbreak with a satisfying performance courtesy of Dylan’s superb vocals.

Dylan decided that Blood On The Tracks would probably be his last talk about his own journey of romance, despite its growing success throughout the years. As a result, the pop icon took to social and political commentary for his succeeding albums.