Available in three versions, “Tell Tale Signs” contains priceless Dylan bootlegs and outtakes from 1989 to 2006
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By Stephen Pate – The official title is The Bootleg Series Vol. 8 – Tell Tale Signs: Rare and Unreleased 1989–2006.
It was released in October 2008 and remains one of the best late period Dylan bootlegs.
I bought all three versions and then largely ignored them. I like to let Dylan releases age for a year or two and get past the press buzz. The early reviews are always full of adulation for Dylan with little reflection.
I’ve had the vinyl in play for two months now. It has become a favorite. This official Bob Dylan bootleg covers from the 1989 comeback CD “Oh Mercy” to 2006.
Most of the song versions are different from cuts already released. They sound fresh. The vinyl is an improvement over the CD versions. The sound has more dynamics and air.
“Dreaming of You”
Comparing versions of songs shows how Dylan can be powerful with or without detailed arrangements. “Most of the Time” from “Oh Mercy” is a breathless lament for an old lover. Lanois lays down his mysterious smoke-filled swamp sound to push Dylan relentlessly forward. We’re led to believe he really hasn’t forgotten the old lover.
The acoustic guitar and harmonica version on “Tell Tale Signs” is Dylan at his early 60s folksinger best. Here Dylan is jaunty and upbeat, his self-doubt less obvious. Both versions of the song work and each one tells a slightly different story about the singer.
The large book that accompanies either the Deluxe or Vinyl editions is worth having. It’s has a great write-up by Larry ‘Ratso’ Sloman on Dylan’s bootleg history and other insider facts.
Copious pictures and the large format of the vinyl box set are perfect for collectors.
The small CD booklet doesn’t cut it compared to the large size.
There are session notes for each song plus detailed listings of the sessions and musicians. The detailed notes are a welcome change from “Blood on the Tracks” when Dylan couldn’t bother to list the backing musicians accurately.
The size of Dylan’s organization within Sony Music is impressive. Jeff Rosen leads the effort on cataloging and releasing this archival material.
Bob Dylan has his fans and they want as much of this as Sony puts out there. It is no easy task since releases from other musicians and producers may have to be obtained for material that was not cleared in the past.
“Tell Tale Signs” is Bootleg # 8 and can be ordered in three versions (besides the mp3 or iTunes downloads). Prices vary so check Amazon.com for the best deals. The MP3 is an Amazon AutoRip that comes with the CD.
1. 2 CD’s with 27 songs – Tell Tale Signs: the Bootleg Series Vol. 8
2. 3 CD Deluxe set with 39 songs, a mini vinyl LP and a book – Tell Tale Signs: The Bootleg Series Vol. 8 (Deluxe)
3. Limited Edition 4 vinyl LP’s with 27 songs and a smaller book US – Tell Tale Signs:The Bootleg Series Vol. 8 [4 LP Vinyl]
Not all editions are still available.
Updated April 1, 2010, Original post August 14, 2008
ChrisMooreMusic
That is just sooooooo cool!
And I was blown away by the free download of “Dreamin of You” — it’s actually in the running for one of my favorite Bob Dylan songs. I mean, I loved the seventh Bootleg release, but the less cover songs and the more Dylan originals the better!
ChrisMooreMusic
That is just sooooooo cool!
And I was blown away by the free download of “Dreamin of You” — it’s actually in the running for one of my favorite Bob Dylan songs. I mean, I loved the seventh Bootleg release, but the less cover songs and the more Dylan originals the better!