"Sky Blue Sky" lacks the thrills and sonic experimentation that made Wilco's "Yankee Hotel Foxtrot" and "A Ghost is Born" two of the finest records made in this decade, or any other. Yet in its lilting, gentle, and yes, slightly dull grace, "Sky Blue Sky" is very much a worthy addition to the band's already storied canon.
Where "Yankee Hotel Foxtrot" and "A Ghost is Born" marked a seismic leap in musicianship and lyrical ability for Jeff Tweedy & Co., their latest recalls an old saying offered up by MC Skat Kat and Paula Abdul on "Opposites Attract": after taking two steps forward, "Sky Blue Sky" is two steps back. Back to Wilco's earlier, more placid incarnation, as seen on their first two triumphs, 1995's "Being There" and 1997's "Summerteeth."
In a lesser group, this type of sonic reversion would signify de-evolution, but Tweedy remains a first-rate songwriter, penning a wistful but content album and actually sounding happy for the first time in his career. He isn't trying to break your heart on "Sky Blue Sky," he's trying to figure out how to work the washing machine and fold the laundry, as he mentions on "Hate It Here."
The other members of Wilco's ever-evolving line-up help to liven up Tweedy's mellow mood, with legendary guitarist Nels Cline injecting some thrills into the record's pastoral vibes with heart-stopping electric solos on "You Are My Face" and "Side With the Seeds."
While it may not satisfy the new, experimental-leaning fans that Wilco picked up on their last two records, "Sky Blue Sky" will undoubtedly please those who have been around since the "A.M." days, as well as those looking for the right record to perfectly accompany firing up the grill on that first post-Memorial Day BBQ.
Even if it doesn't reach the highest altitude, "Sky Blue Sky" remains one very smooth ride.
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