Beck is such a diverse artist that nothing could come as a surprise out of his repertoire. But, even though not surprised, I was very pleased and immediately fell in love with "Fourteen Rivers Fourteen Floods" when I first heard it. It sounds so authentic, resembling the early blues heroes, that it could pass just well as a traditional. But it’s not - it is Beck’s song from head to toes. It was released on the album “One Foot in the Grave” the third independent studio album and fourth overall by Beck, released in June 1994 on the independent label K Records. Like “Stereopathetic Soulmanure,” the album never charted; however, “One Foot in the Grave” strengthened Beck's critical reputation, before his mainstream breakthrough with “Odelay” two years after. The album shows a strong folk influence that is more pronounced than on his more eclectic-style albums of the time, “Mellow Gold” and the aforementioned “Odelay.” The record also features the production talents, songwriting skills, and occasional backing vocals of Calvin Johnson, founder of K Records. It was recorded at Dub Narcotic Studio, which was then housed in Calvin's basement, which makes Beck one of the early proponents of low-fi music.
As the music is faithful to the sound of early blues, so are the lyrics reminiscent of those times.
Fourteen rivers, fourteen floods
Bend your body to the heavens above
Don't get drunk, don't get dry
Just bring your money next Saturday night
Fourteen miles on the Tanton trail
With a half-dead mule and nothing on my mind
All my life, I been talking fast
Taking all the things that I should've let pass
Throw my hat on a coffin nail
Put another brick in the fireplace
Well I don't know about you or me
But someone got loose back in the town
There is also a great live version of the song, performed by Beck at the BBC Sessions - Live at The Union Chapel Hall, Islington from April 2003. Enjoy!
