"Most Of The Time" - Bob Dylan

After his landmark 1976 record, Desire, Bob Dylan's output fell into some sketchy territory. After his odd turn into Gospel rock on Slow Train Coming, Saved, and Shot Of Love, Dylan carried on into the 80's, surrendering to the trappings most financially privileged musicians fell into that decade. After a hand injury and a stint with the supergroup, The Travelling Wilburys, Dylan finally hit pay dirt in his solo career with 1989's Oh Mercy. Produced by Daniel Lanois, best known for his collaborative efforts with Brian Eno, both on his ambient work and producing successful U2 records, the record contains a productive kick where his previous efforts dragged their feet.

The album's most layered and best track is the tender ballad "Most Of The Time". Remembered by many for its appearance ten years later in the film High Fidelity, it's sometimes easy to forget that its by Dylan, given it's warm layers of production, and pop/rock balladry (Dylan's gravel pit voice notwithstanding). Lanois's tones both soothe and burn, creating a melancholic atmosphere that aches with regret, while Dylan's lyrics recall a former love that's not quite fully gone from his thoughts. While the singer assures the listener, "I don't compromise and I don't pretend/I don't even care if I see her again, most of the time", it's clear that this time is not one of them.