Despite not having an album in stores since 1989's The End Of The Innocence, Henley hasn't toned down his signature ranting ways on his latest release, out Tuesday.

The man who gave us Dirty Laundry is a thorn in the side of everyone from polluters to corporations to downright nasty people with the help of special guests.

Stevie Wonder joins Henley on keyboards and backup vocals on the funky Nobody Else In The World But You. You've got to wonder if he's talking about his former label boss David Geffen as he sings: "You live in a house of mirrors, reflecting your splendid isolation, You have so much of everything, except for true consideration." Glenn Frey also plays on this one.

Still, this 13-track collection, meticulously co-produced with ex-Heartbreaker Stan Lynch, is also a reflection of the artist's personal happiness.

Worth special mention is the ballad Taking You Home, which appeared at the end of Julianna Margulies' final episode on ER.

Also good are the dreamy, atmospheric Everything Is Different Now, featuring Heartbreakers Mike Campbell and Benmont Tench, and a cover of Larry John McNally's sweet-sounding For My Wedding. Randy Newman conducts and arranges strings on the touching Annabel.

Sunday, May 21, 2000

Don Henley still ranting