One of the most frequently heard criticisms during country-tinged troubadour Ryan Adams’ career has been that he is too prolific. Especially during the hyperactive year 2005, during which he released Cold Roses (a doublealbum!), Jacksonville City Nights, and 29, it has been remarked that his tendency to quickly churn out new releases has resulted in diminishing returns. However, if subsequent Adams releases turn out to be as focused and effective as his latest, the Glyn Jones-produced Ashes & Fire, the refrain most often heard may be that he is not recording enough.Working from a minimalist template, this album showcases a refreshed-sounding Adams and song craft that finds several melodies taking up permanent residency in the mind of the listener. “Do I Wait” builds on a bassy acoustic and tastefully echoed vocals, leading up to a finale that soars on squiggly Hammond organ swirls, a subtly dramatic electric guitar coda, and a effectively layered vocal harmony, while the title track features twangy guitar, ragtime piano (provided by frequent partner-in-crime Norah Jones), and something that has long been an Adams staple: an epic chorus accompanied by country-fried electric.
