Many may remember the 90’s Snider who, with his sarcasm, made people scratch their heads. It was only years later that he became relevant in the past and while he still plugs away at making music, the focus has shifted to more political themes. This latest set, Agnostic Hymns & Stone Fables, offers up some of his most socially conscious tunes, with backing by Amanda Shires on violin and vocals; these rough songs continue a commentary that stems from previous albums.

It’s hard to categorize Snider’s music; it’s kind of singer/songwriter-ish, but rough in nature. Snider can carry a tune for the most part, but it’s really, really rough. Despite that, his commentary and stories are compelling enough to carry the album through to the end. Amanda Shires provides that bit of dichotomy, bringing maybe, not the classier side, nor the more civilized, but the cleaner side.

Snider blends a lot of different styles; from blues-rock, to singer/songwriter, to country; it all works really well here. This album coincides with his previous election year release Peace Queer; only this time, Snider is way more angrier. In “New York Banker,” a teacher loses all their retirement, thanks to a Madoff type character. “In Between Jobs” seems like it should have been an anthem for people a few years ago, but is still relevant, though reduced in momentum. Adding to the strangeness of this album, is a Jimmy Buffett cover of “West Nashville Grand Ballroom Gown” that Snider makes all his own. In a way, “Big Finish” has this “With a Little Help from My Friends” via Joe Cocker sound and feel to it, which almost doesn’t fit the album’s tone, but in a strange way does.

It’s an interesting coincidence that Agnostic Hymns was released the same day as Bruce Springsteen’s Wrecking Ball. At times, Snider certainly comes off as a less than stellar Boss, but really that’s not the best comparison. Like the Boss, he’s angry, and he’s not endorsing anyone; both albums end up sharing an ambiguous feel, as they don’t call anyone out by name. Both albums are successful in their own right, Snider maybe a little less, but really, he can relate more to the common man, with his rough style. He’s just doing his own thing, and his own thing sounds pretty damn good anyway.

Album Rating: Stream It or Digitally Download It (Legally of Course)

Listening Co-efficient: Passive Listen

If you’d like your music reviewed on teamhellions.com email recordreviewsonhellions@gmail.com