Fogerty Comes Home on Revival

Heartland rock legend John Fogerty is finally reclaiming his Creedence Clearwater Revival youth with an excellent new solo record, aptly titled Revival. The release marks a major turning point in the CCR frontman’s story, as he’s back with original label Fantasy Records and is finally discussing his old band, says Allmusic in awarding his triumph 4.5 of 5 stars.

But aside from subject matter—tribute “Creedence Song” references many of the classic tracks—Fogerty’s signature style has barely changed on “Revival.” Rather it’s matured: His “strongest album in years” is “lived in and simple.” Its topical content—Rumsfeld, Cheney and Bush are mentioned on one “thuddingly literal” song—is direct and powerful, and invites comparison to another masterwork by an icon flying solo—Neil Young’s “Living at War” (More John Fogerty stories.)