(****½) August 20, 1979. 19th Studio Album.
One of Dylan’s cleanest-sounding albums was the first in his so-called trilogy of “Christian” albums, even though Biblical references, both Old and New Testament, have appeared throughout his career. Recorded at Muscle Shoals Studios by famed producer Jerry Wexler and featuring Mark Knoplfer of Dire Straits on guitar, the album breathes among Dylan’s heartfelt vocals and tight arrangements. While many of the songs could be considered overtly Christian in a narrow interpretation, there is a more universal feel to many of them. “Slow Train” is more of a protest-like comment on the state of Jimmy Carter’s America in the late ’70s, “Gotta Serve Somebody” shows the equality of mankind regardless of stature, and the closing track “When He Returns” is perhaps one of Dylan’s finest recorded vocals. Slow Train Coming continues an innovative 10-year period from Dylan’s mid-career.
A classic–top 5! How can you not be touched by “I Believe in You.”
Always liked how “Slow Train” goes a little faster each verse, representing the need to repent.