Calvin Johnson- What Was Me

Label: K Records

Reissued 2020, Originally released 2002

The first of what promises to be many posthumous solo albums from Calvin Johnson, culled from the extensive archive of tapes left behind by the prolific songmaker and performer. Calvin Johnson made up songs about the feeling inside for over twenty years. What Was Me collects ten bits of lifeness and spreads them thickly with voice and acoustic guitar; a capella 40% of the time. There are patches that are worn and threadbare but the overall effect is gutty and moist. The affect is also noteworthy. Calvin is joined by the K divas Mirah on "Ode to St. Valentine" and Beth Ditto (the Gossip) on "Lightnin' Rod for Jesus".

Track listing:

1. The Past Comes Back to Haunt Me
2. Can We Kiss
3. Love Will Come Back Again
4. Ode to St. Valentine 
5. Palriga 
6. Nothing to Hold Us Here 
7. Warm Days
8. Lies Goodbye
9. Lightnin' Rod for Jesus 
10. What Was Me