Ry Cooder – Election Special

Ry Cooder – Election Special

Sharp, timely and deeply rooted in American musical traditions, Election Special finds Ry Cooder turning his attention to the political and social landscape of contemporary America. Released in 2012, the album combines blues, folk, gospel and roots music with pointed commentary on economic inequality, political power and everyday life.

Known throughout his career for blending exceptional musicianship with an interest in American history and culture, Cooder uses Election Special as a platform for storytelling and social observation. The songs draw on classic protest music traditions while remaining grounded in his distinctive slide guitar work and understated vocal style.

Tracks such as Mutt Romney Blues, The Wall Street Part Of Town and The 90 And The 9 tackle issues of wealth, class and political influence with a mixture of humour, frustration and insight. Elsewhere, songs like Brother Is Gone and Cold Cold Feelings reveal a more reflective and emotional side, balancing the album's political themes with personal storytelling.

Musically, the record remains firmly rooted in the American roots tradition, blending blues grooves, folk melodies and gospel influences into arrangements that feel both timeless and immediate.

A compelling late-career release from one of America's most respected musical storytellers, Election Special is essential listening for fans of roots music, blues and socially conscious songwriting.

Tracklist

1. Mutt Romney Blues – 3:45
2. Brother Is Gone – 5:03
3. The Wall Street Part Of Town – 3:43
4. Guantanamo – 3:29
5. Cold Cold Feelings – 5:26
6. Going To Tampa – 3:58
7. Kool-Aid – 4:10
8. The 90 And The 9 – 5:16
9. Take Your Hands Off It – 3:48