Folker
Paul Westerberg's solo work has never exactly measured up to the life-changing music he made with thethe  Replacements. But it seems like that's more of a problem for everyone else than him.Folkeris the fifth full-length album he has recorded in his basement--counting the ones produced by his slightly more mischievous alter egoGrandpaboy--and easily the most relaxed. The lyrics seem largely tossed off, the instruments sound like they're competing with the hum of the heater, and Westerberg sings in the gruff voice of someone who's just rolled out of bed. Under the right circumstances these are all endearing qualities, to be sure (see:Damien Rice'sO), although more discerning fans might find that bluesy dirges like "When Will We Arrive?" and "As Far As I Know" signal a slight lack of direction.--Aidin Vaziri