Private press records can be a window into a parallel world. Typically released in small runs, they make it into a few people's hands before disappearing completely. Frequently forgotten for good reason, there can be hidden gems that slipped through the cracks. Their covers paint pictures that can lead the mind to wander and create intricate narratives as it searches for an explanation. On the heels of Lewis' L’Amour, Light In The Attic has unearthed another of his private press enigmas. This time going by Lewis Baloue, we're given Romantic Times to further extend the mystery. Apparently Lewis has proven so elusive that all that the label could find was "a series of possibly apocryphal stories about a sports car-driving Canadian with a model on his arm and a habit of skipping town when there were bills to be paid." Upon first listen you can see why the label decided to release the music despite being able to track the man down. The delicate and languid songs bear witness to the longings of Lewis' tortured soul. His voice seems to channel Elvis on a few too many Quaaludes, drowning in his own dreams as synthetic strings float by. There's a certain darkness that lies below the linen suit and white Mercedes, one that is Lewis' and Lewis' alone. Remastered from a sealed, vinyl copy of the ultra-rare album.

• first ever LP reissue
• all tracks newly re-mastered
• LP housed in deluxe Stoughton "Tip-On" gatefold jacket
• liner notes by Jack D. Fleischer
• 180 gram pressing
• includes free download
• music label: R.A.W. Records 1985 / Light In The Attic 2014

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 01/2015