Ryan Adams’ latest CD, Love is Hell (actually a two part EP) is one of the best albums of this year. An excellent blend of subdued songs along with some rockers, Love is Hell was originally intended to be released as a full album. Instead Adams decided to release the unpolished, albeit more rock-friendly Rock n Roll and offer Love is Hell as a limited edition, two EP set. The reasoning behind this decision is beyond me.

Ryan Adams’ writing on Love is Hell has never been better, especially on songs like “Afraid Not Scared,” “English Girls Approximately” and “Hotel Chelsea Nights.” My favorite track from the two disc collection is “This House Is Not For Sale,” in which Adams reminisces about a relationship and at the same time is in denial that it’s over. Long after the song ends, the poignant lyrics and melody linger in your mind like the memory of an old friend. Adams has always been at his best when he pours his emotions into his songs, giving them a genuine quality often missing in music from other artists. Sadly, that quality is also missing from his newest “official” album Rock n Roll. It is most certainly not missing from Love is Hell.