Nick Lowe - ABOMINABLE SHOWMAN

Personnel: Nick Lowe (vocals, bass guitar); Paul Carrack (vocals, keyboards); Bobby Irwin (vocals, drums); Martin Belmont (guitar). Audio Mixer: Roger Bechirian. Recording information: Ampro Studio London (02/10/1982); Rockfield Studios Wales (02/10/1982); The Agora Ballroom, Cleveland, Ohio (02/10/1982). Photographer: Keith Morris . Working with the same ensemble (plus an extra player here and there) who he'd take to calling Cowboy Outfit on his thusly titled subsequent album, this 1983 release is a comfortable mix of rockers, country weepers, reggae-tinged pop, and even some blue-eyed soul. Further proof (if any were needed) that Nick Lowe's natural flair for songwriting and his exemplary choice in sidemen has guaranteed that the man has never made a bad album. Even when he may be treading water or re-walking familiar paths ("Tanque-Rae"), he's doing so in crystal water or on paths with great views. The gorgeous album closer, "How Do You Talk To An Angel" foretells of the direction h