Continuing a countdown of my favorite albums of 1996…
#2 – The Road to Ensenada – Lyle Lovett
Lyle Lovett’s sixth album is the greatest work he ever released, and sadly the last great album in his catalog. In the 30 years since, he has released a half dozen albums mostly featuring covers of other artists’ work.
His first half dozen albums, on the other hand, were all fabulous, and The Road to Ensenada was the culmination of everything special about him. A little bit country, a little bit jazz, very funny but equally sad. A band that plays its heart out and one of the best voices in popular music.
This album also features some of Lovett’s very best songwriting, including the haunting title track, the bossa nova ‘Her First Mistake,’ and the propulsive ‘Fiona.’ In ‘Don’t Touch My Hat’ and ‘That’s Right (You’re Not from Texas),’ Lovett embraces his Texas roots with his signature wit.
This is a desert island album, and Exhibit A for why Lyle Lovett is a national treasure based on just his first decade as a recording artist.
Late nights in musty motel rooms
Stale lives left by someone else
White lies I wish I could tell you
And questions I ask of myself
[Chorus]
Why do I do the things that make me sorry?
Why do I do the things that make you cry?
Will I lose your love to another who loves you better than I?
[Verse]
The angels smile when you’re praying
But the devil laughs when you lie
And some things, they go without saying
When tears fill up your eyes
[Chorus]
Why do I do the things that make me sorry?
Why do I do the things that make you cry?
Will I lose your love to another who loves you better than I?
[Verse]
Some questions beg for an answer
Like a poet begs for a rhyme
Somehow all I can remember
Is holding your hand in mine
[Verse]
Late nights in musty motel rooms
Stale lives left all alone
He’s telling you how he wants you
And I’m praying he doesn’t know
[Chorus]
Why I do the things that make me sorry?
Why I do the things that make you cry?
If I could lose your love to another who loves you better than I?
Who loves you better than I?
Meet Me In Montauk 