David Rovics

Tagging David Rovics as a political songwriter might seem remarkably obvious, albeit true. But to him politics are a part of everyday life, a natural thought process, and one facet of being human. Behind the Barricades: The Best of David Rovics collects studio and live material, focusing on some of his best and most powerful material. There's a passion behind it all, whether it's "Shut Them Down," about the way big business dehumanizes people, or the moving "In One World," whose compassion and insight are often quite beautiful. Yes, he can sometimes rant a little, as on "The Flag Desecration Rag." But when he catches the right tone -- and he often does -- Rovics is a powerful songwriter. There's a lot to be learned here, with pieces like "Drink of the Death Squads," for example, offering the kind of history lessons you won't get in school. And though he's probably only going to appeal to the converted, there's actually plenty to enjoy in his songs -- he's far from just being didactic. Inevitably, anyone plowing this furrow is going to be compared to Woody Guthrie, Phil Ochs, or Billy Bragg, and Rovics doesn't have that little sprinkling of magic that makes their music lasting. But he's good, nonetheless, and this album puts together some excellent songs and does him -- and listeners -- a favor. ~ Chris Nickson, All Music Guide