With his album Gold (2001), Ryan Adams definitely developed from promising talent to the absolute star of alternative country. A status that he was not really happy with. Adams says he has nothing to do with country and does not feel at home in this tradition. It may explain the striking change of direction he undergoes on Rock N Roll, the follow-up to his breakthrough album. The acoustic guitars
… have been abandoned and the songs have been thrown on the band by a fierce rock band with a lot of energy. Adams' hoarse vocals are most reminiscent of Paul Westerberg from The Replacements, but Liam Gallager from Oasis also seems to be a source of inspiration. Whether his change of direction is an improvement is debatable. By not repeating himself, he ensures that he continues to surprise his fans. (MS)more
