[4/5] Stripped of the experimental, feedback-drenched qualities of 2002's Yankee Hotel Foxtrot and 2004's A Ghost Is Born, Sky Blue Sky sees Wilco revisit their mid-'90s A.M. roots. However, it's apparent it takes deft skill to sound this simple. The traditionally sharp edges are intentionally dulled on frontman Jeff Tweedy's eloquent and sometimes devastatingly observant lyrics, leaving abundant room for Nels Cline's brilliant guitar work to shine. Cline positively smolders, ebbing and flowing between the rest of the band, laying intricate groundwork for these songs which, while possessing a soothing quietness on disc, are primed for Wilco's electrifying live show: In particular, "Side With The Seeds," "Impossible Germany" (a toned down "Jesus, Etc.") and "Shake It Off" (with a staccato punch reminiscent of "Misunderstood") showcase why Wilco are one of the most talented bands writing and performing music today. (NONESUCH) Rachel Lux
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