Photo by Lisa Schaffer

Ben Arnold is the secret musical love child of Jimmy Durante, Dr. John (of “Makin’ Whoopee” fame) and Louis Armstrong, with just a little help from Randy Newman. O.k., the math doesn’t quite work, but I know what I’m talking about.

After hearing just a few of his lyrics, the man so clearly has the blues that I can actually taste the bourbon through my speakers. And yet, nothing about any of his songs can bring me down. They’re just too optimistic.

It’s like he’s just so happy to be sad that he can’t even stand it.

His gravelly, seen-it-all, world-weary, soulful voice and lyrics are the perfect juxtaposition for his crisp, fresh, up-beat, cheerful melodies. I mean, how is it possible that I’m dancing in my kitchen to a song called “Let the Tears Roll Down,” how? I’m so confused now. He’s making me want to be melancholy just so I have something to be ecstatic about.

“Ridiculous!” you say? Go to his show at the Tin Angel on the 29th and find out for yourself. But make sure you have something really heartbreaking to wallow in so you have a reason to bop around to joyfulless (yes...I had to make up a new word to describe them) tunes like “Suckin’ Honey,” “Nevermind My Blues” and “Heaven Next Time.”

Otherwise you’re going to feel left out. Which will make you sad. But wait...then you’ll be happy because you finally got sad and have a reason to dance gleefully throughout the show. Now I’m confused again. But does that make me sad or happy? Do I cry or dance?

Thankfully, I think Mr. Arnold has officially made it o.k. for us to do both.

Go. Be sad. Enjoy the out of it. And just try not to laugh through your tears as you dance on the emotional roller coaster. I’ll be at the metaphorical bar cry-laughing into my bourbon.

Friday, January 29, 2010, 7:30 p.m.
Ben Arnold w/ Pete Donnelly (from The Figgs)
The Tin Angel, 20 S. 2nd St, Philadelphia PA, 19106
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