The funky, celebratory Memphis-style horns announcing the album's opening title track also proclaim a truly revitalized K. T. Oslin. Teaming up with a new songwriting and producer partner, Raul Malo of the
Mavericks, the former '80s lady is up-to- date and then some on a collection that showcases her sharp writing and natural feel for blue-eyed soul and classic pop styles. That's right -- Memphis and Tin Pan Alley are the twin coordinates for the music here, and there's nary a stopover to refuel in Nashville. The insightful original songs range from dreamy, sensual blues ballads ("I Can't Remember Not Loving You," "Maybe We Should Learn to Tango") to soul struts ("Mexico Road" and the
Bobbie Gentry-styled character study, "Neva Sawyer"). A fascinating bit of pop archaeology closes out the affair, as Oslin puts the hurt on a medley of three exquisite romantic numbers, capped by
Cole Porter's "What Is This Thing Called Love?," and then signs off with a version of
Rosemary Clooney's 1951 hit, "Come On-a My House," that's all techno blips and bleats and thoroughly modern electronic beats, with a spacey, yearning vocal floating tantalizingly above the maelstrom. Daring and unconventional,
Live Close By, Visit Often is a peak moment in a career defined by bold choices.
