No matter. His real strength is as a songwriter and the follow-up to Star Wars, last year's free-for-all (literally; the band gave away the online version) captures Tweedy in a reflective mood. So, too, are his bandmates, who largely dispense with the electric guitar in favour of unprocessed acoustics, brushed drums and subtle organ. That's not to say Schmilco lacks energy; there's plenty to be found in the front-porch-jam vibe of Cry All Day, the ragged groove of Nope and the snaking harmonic shifts of Someone To Lose.
• Wilco. Schmilco. Warner Music.
• Three stars (out of five)
• Single download: Normal American Kids.
• For those who like: Felice Brothers
- Shane Gilchrist
