Arthur Russell ‎– Love Is Overtaking Me

Arthur Russell’s “Love Is Overtaking Me” isn’t your typical studio album. Released in 2008, it’s a collection of 21 unearthed gems: demos, home recordings, and unreleased pop, folk, and country songs spanning Russell’s long career.

Compiled from eight hours of material, the album takes you on a journey through Russell’s musical evolution. You’ll hear early compositions from the 70s alongside his final recordings made in 1991. There are collaborations with various groups, including The Flying Hearts (a band Russell formed) and other downtown New York scenesters. Legendary producer John Hammond even has his hand in some tracks.

The album showcases a softer side of Russell, with warm melodies and introspective lyrics that touch on love, anger, and even a touch of irony. “Close My Eyes” opens the record with a pure country waltz, while “This Time Dad You’re Wrong” blends a country shuffle with the sophistication of Big Star. There are spoken-word pieces like “What It’s Like” that add another layer of intimacy.

“Love Is Overtaking Me” is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a window into Russell’s vast musical palette. It reveals the tenderness and accessibility that lay beneath his more experimental work, making it a treasure trove for both longtime fans and those new to his music.