The Bootleg Series, Vol. 8: Tell Tale Signs - Rare and Unreleased 1989-2006

is perhaps the most appropriately titled of all the volumes in 's official thus far. Containing 13 tracks, it adds up to disc one of the two-disc version; the material here dates from the albums through to 2006's . It presents a carefully prepared sonic treat of his turn-of-the-century musical world view. seems to perceive the modern world as a strange place; one he no longer understands, nor wishes to. The music here is startling in its depth and presentation. It begins with an unreleased version of a song recorded for inclusion on , but which ended up on five years later. This one, with only ' electric guitar as backing, reveals in full voice, performing it as a midtempo blues. It's jauntier in tempo, but harder, leaner, and wearier than the released version. Even more shocking is which has become a signature of production style with its warm, thickly padded guitars and muffled drums. This alternate take, however, features solo with harmonica and guitar. It comes off as a statement about strengths and weaknesses rather than as a treatise of denial in the aftermath of lost love. It feels like a backporch country song here, with different lyrics that underscore the singer's steely determination. As the album flows, there are some truly amazing stops along the way. The unreleased would have shifted some of the darkness on and added some evidence of empathy and even tenderness to it. Likewise, one of the best slow blues has ever written, offers a respite from the desolation on that album. Soundtracks get represented here, too: the alternate take of from , is a semi-rag tune with rambling honky tonk piano, and " , creates a more complex look at the male lead in the film with a Celtic undertow in the melody. This set closes with a burning live reading of with overdriven electric guitars. While most hardcore fans will purchase the double-disc version -- containing 14 more tracks -- this single CD is equally a delight, and easier to listen through in one sitting. ologist claims in his liner notes that this "might be his finest hour as a songwriter." It's not just hyperbole. In all, feels like a new record, not only for the freshness of the alternate material, but also for the incredible sound quality and organic feeling of its music. It's a carefully presented set, full of life and crackling energy, and offers yet more proof -- as if any were needed -- that remains as cagey, unpredictable, profound, and relevant as ever. ~ Thom Jurek