Hi-Res
by Joe Ely

This just didn't work for me, neither songs nor performances, and I even heard it live. Happens sometimes...

Hi-Res (1984, MCA) is the fifth studio album by Texas singer-songwriter Joe Ely.

This stands out in Ely's catalog because it's his only major label record that hasn't been issued on CD or digital streaming. I had to purchase a used cassette copy in order to hear the original album, which usually only happens with indie releases. I've encountered only two other major label albums from this era that have not reissued on CD/digital, and those are Jerry Jeff Walker's MCA albums from the early 1980s.

The original demos were self-produced at home by Ely with his Apple computer. MCA rejected the demos but supported a studio session for the material, which was released. Ely would later release the home demos as B4 84.

The cover art suggests the theme of digital and synthesizer use, but that doesn't portray the sound of the album. The sound is typical for mid-80s arena rock production: heavy guitars riffs, thick bass, keyboards, and thundering drums. However, Ely's old school vocal delivery, lyrical eccentrics and Western flair make this record stand out from the generic arena rock of the era.

The verdict: It's OK. It's not dazzling and it's certainly not awful. Any flashes of brilliance and eccentricism are mostly marred by the production on this record. Hi-Res also his first album of all originals, which is a red flag, as Ely is not the strongest songwriter. Still, it's nice to hear Ely try the hard rock sound. There are some interesting songs here too, particularly on side 1. Letter to Laredo would resurface ten years later as the title track of a critically acclaimed record. Ultimately though, I would track this down only if I was a big fan of Ely or for anyone curious about his style and unique material.

A-Side: What's Shakin' Tonight
B-Side: Dream Camera