Bob Dylan – Under the Red Sky (1990) Album Review
Released in September 1990, Under the Red Sky finds Bob Dylan navigating the post-Oh Mercy era with a lighter, more playful tone. While it followed the critically acclaimed and atmospheric Oh Mercy, this album presented a significant stylistic shift, favoring simple, catchy songs and more accessible pop-rock arrangements. Despite mixed reviews, Under the Red Sky remains an intriguing snapshot of Dylan experimenting with melody, storytelling, and collaboration.
Produced by Don Was and David Was for Columbia Records, the album features polished production with an emphasis on straightforward instrumentation and radio-friendly arrangements. Unlike the brooding and moody textures of Oh Mercy, Under the Red Sky is brighter, with a playful energy that incorporates blues, rock, and pop elements. The sessions included an impressive roster of guest musicians, including George Harrison, Slash, and Elton John, contributing to the album’s eclectic sound.
Lyrically, Under the Red Sky departs from the introspection and moral gravitas of its predecessor. Dylan embraces whimsical imagery, fables, and childlike narratives, though often with underlying social and emotional commentary. The songs are less dense and metaphorical than his late-1980s work, favoring immediacy and accessibility over layered complexity. While some critics viewed this shift as a step back, it demonstrates Dylan’s willingness to experiment and avoid creative stagnation.
Vocally, Dylan’s performances are confident, expressive, and suited to the lighter tone of the album. He navigates both playful and earnest material with ease, highlighting his versatility as a singer-songwriter. Musically, the album blends rock, blues, and folk sensibilities, supported by polished studio arrangements and contributions from high-profile collaborators. The result is a record that is approachable, energetic, and often surprisingly charming.
Upon release, Under the Red Sky received mixed reviews, with some critics disappointed by its apparent simplicity and others appreciating its adventurous spirit. While it did not reach the artistic heights of Oh Mercy, the album remains noteworthy for its experimentation, star-studded collaborations, and pop-oriented approach. It also reflects Dylan’s continued evolution as an artist willing to take risks, even after decades of success.
Fun Facts and Trivia
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George Harrison played guitar on one of the tracks, adding a signature melodic touch.
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Slash contributed guitar work, highlighting the album’s unexpected blend of rock and blues influences.
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The album includes contributions from Elton John on piano and other session musicians from diverse musical backgrounds.
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Some songs were intentionally written in a more childlike, fairy-tale style, a notable departure for Dylan.
Did You Know?
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Under the Red Sky was originally intended to feature more serious material, but Dylan chose to pursue a lighter, more playful tone during the sessions.
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Despite its critical reception, the album performed well commercially, reaching the Top 40 in multiple countries.
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Dylan has rarely performed songs from this album live in the years following its release, making it a unique chapter in his catalog.
Album Credits
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Artist: Bob Dylan
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Producers: Don Was, David Was
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Label: Columbia Records
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Release Date: September 10, 1990
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Recording Locations: A&M Studios, Los Angeles
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Musical Personnel: Bob Dylan – vocals, guitar, harmonica; George Harrison – guitar; Slash – guitar; Elton John – piano; additional session musicians on bass, drums, and backing vocals
Under the Red Sky showcases Bob Dylan’s playful side, blending pop, rock, and blues influences with whimsical lyrics and high-profile collaborations. While not as critically acclaimed as Oh Mercy, it remains a fascinating example of Dylan experimenting with accessibility, storytelling, and musical diversity at the start of the 1990s.
