In a way, reminds me of Bruce Springsteen's 2014 release High Hopes- In the sense that it was too a collaboration ( Tom Morello), and a hodge podge of new songs, older unreleased songs, reworked songs, cover songs etc. Sad clowns does feature new songs, but also mixed in are covers ( Mobile blue, Early bird cafe), reworked songs ( Sugar Hill Mountain, You are blind, What kind of Man- all from other projects) and old songs finished for this ( Grandview, All Night Talk radio). Just my observations.

 I am guessing this is from the 98 sessions for the self titled album. I say that because of Stan Lynch and Izzy Stradlin's inclusion on Grandview.  They also played on the 98 record, so it is plausible they cut this while they were there during those sessions

 I noticed that too when listening to all night talk radio. I know Toby has worked with John on and off over the years- but I never thought Kenny would.  Very possible this is an old song finished up for Sad Clowns. 

I saw in the NPR review that Izzy Stadlin and Stan Lynch play on Grandview.  I know they both played on Miss Missy on the 98 self titled record. With that said I must ask if this is an older recording, dug up for this record? John does sound 20 years younger on the vocal, and does not sound like the grizzled style on Easy Target. 

 You ever notice John contradicts himself sometimes in interviews?  I love the man, but this is something I've noticed over the years. Most recently it is in regards to painting.  In recent interviews he states he has always been a painter, and came to NYC in the 70's to be a a painter, and accidently became a Rockstar. I have watched some interviews from the 90's where he says he took up painting "recently" because he was tired of being a rock star, and to keep him off the streets. My memory also has him taking up painting between Big Daddy and  the Whenever we wanted album.

 Just got back from the Rock and Roll hall of Fame, and John's exhibit is fantastic. If you are a fan, do yourself a favor and get there before it is gone in September.

 Wow!! I stopped expecting singles like this from John.  Nothing against any of his recent work, but it has been on the somber side. He sounds like he having fun for the first time in a while- best single in 20 years or so.  I do find it weird that he used Mcbride for the female vocal on this, when he his featuring Carlene Carter on the album.

   Any word on the new record?  Will Easy Target be apart of it?

 New exhibit on John opens Nov 10. How long will it remain open?

 Saw John in Utica last night- He said the album will come out in February!! 

 Thanks for the answer!

 My questions are never answered here

 Is the new record on course for a late 2016 release, or do we have to wait until 2017?

 I'll take the silence from the Mellen"camp" as a yes

 Is there truth to the reports John is currently recording an album with Carlene Carter?