Cuttin' Heads
You pretty much know what to expect from a John Mellencamp album at this point in time, andCuttin' Headscertainly won't disappoint the Midwest rock troubadour's diehard fans. In fact, Mellencamp's 18th album is arguably his most engaging, and coincidentally timely, since 1989'sBig Daddy. "Peaceful World," a beautiful folk-rocker featuring guest vocalistIndia Arie, takes on a more poignant and ironic tone in light of the tragedy of September 11, 2001.Public Enemy's Chuck D contributes a fabulous rap on the opening title track, which, like "Peaceful World," addresses American racism. Elsewhere, Mellencamp offers up typical fare, including several love tunes (Trisha Yearwoodduets on "Deep Blue Heart"), the calypso-like "Crazy Island," and a lyric on "Women Seem" that's ornery enough to still merit the Little Bastard nickname he once gave himself. It's notScarecrow, but it's still a fine effort.--Bill Holdship