February 10, 2002
ALWAYS GOT TONIGHT
By JANE STEVENSON

ALWAYS GOT TONIGHT
Chris Isaak
(Reprise-Warner)

Isaak will always have his quick wit, quirky style and Roy Orbison croon to fall back on.

But you get the distinct feeling he's coasting a bit on some of his songwriting on his latest album, in stores Tuesday.

Despite the addition of strings and drum machines throughout, there's too many lovelorn mid-tempos and ballads like One Day, Let Me Down Easy, Worked It Out Wrong, I See You Everywhere, Somebody To Love and Nothing To Say.

This is familiar adult-contemporary territory from previous Isaak CDs.

Better bets are the character-driven Courthouse, the more atmospheric Life Will Go On, the harder-edged title track and the poppy Cool Love, the latter which would make a great single.

Also included is the rollicking American Boy, the theme from his TV show.

Meanwhile, would you believe actress/serial dater Minnie Driver is listed in the liner notes as singing backup vocals?

Isaak is expected to tour in the spring/summer and a Toronto date is anticipated. (More on Chris Isaak)

Track Listing

  • 1. One Day
  • 2. Let Me Down Easy
  • 3. Worked It Out Wrong
  • 4. Courthouse
  • 5. Life Will Go On
  • 6. Always Got Tonight
  • 7. Cool Love
  • 8. Notice The Ring
  • 9. I See You Everywhere
  • 10. American Boy
  • 11. Somebody To Love
  • 12. Nothing To Say