John Flanders

Slow Train Comin’ was released while I was also going through my own Born Again period. Having gotten rid of my entire Secular R&R album collection (replaced by Mahalia Jackson gospel or Christian Rock), Dylan underscored and merged my new-found faith and love for music that moved. I was also playing the drums every Friday at Souls Session, accompanied by talented singers, electric guitars and a wailin’ Hammond B3 & twin Leslies. I still feel this album holds up, and even though both Dylan’s and my advocating Christian beliefs has subsided, the clever, poignant and theologically secure lyrics continue to ring true. The varied musical styles, from the title song’s slow blues to the whimsical children’s fable Man Gave Names To All The Animals, keep one’s attention and are masterfully executed by a host of known session musicians. This is a timeless gem!