Chuck Prophet is an Americana lifer. Back in the Paisley Underground ’80s, he slung guitar for scruffy roots rockers Green On Red. And since 1990, Prophet has been crafting little-heard records for little-known labels like China and Cooking Vinyl while being sought after by such diverse acts as Cake, Kelly Willis and the Mr. T Experience. Last year, he delivered the majestic No Other Love (New West). Masterfully mixing rock, country, blues and soul into twisted character studies and heart-baring tales, Prophet created one of 2002’s finest discs. Whether it’s the achingly beautiful title track, the eerie folk-funk of “That’s How Much I Need Your Love” or the rambunctious Tom Petty-via-Highway 61 “Run Primo Run,” this stellar effort offers a wealth of rough-hewn gems. Live, Prophet’s road-tested charm and ragged ferocity never fail to attract more disciples to his flock.
This article appears in May 15-21, 2003.