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Dom Leone was a founding member of Ed's Redeeming Qualities, and he sadly died of cancer in 1989 just as Ed's was gaining some success. This CD brings together many of Dom's friends, family, and admirers, and the proceeds benefit the Dom Leone Writing Competition, a contest for schoolkids. If, like me, your only exposure to Ed's was The Breeders' cover of "Drivin' on 9", this will definitely get you curious for more. Dom had quite a knack for telling quirky, humorous stories through his lyrics, with memorable characters and scenarios. Highlights include TW Walsh's "Sit Them Old Ladies Down," about some restless grannies in the audience; "My Friend Bob", which gets an eerie treatment by Mark Kozelek; and "Mom", which is touchingly performed by 6 members of Dom's family. Food is a recurring theme, with songs like "Swiss Chard", "Cheese Grater", and 2 different songs about chili ("Coriander Eyes", performed by Ida, and "Week Old the Chili" from Nervous Plants). The only real misstep on here is Calexico's inexplicable rap version of "Drivin' on 9"; just skip that one and stick with The Breeders. Aside from that, this is a pretty consistent and enjoyable CD; it's a heartfelt tribute that really celebrates its subject. (mike.05.02)
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