2006 studio album from Jules Shear!! Let the raves begin here! AMG: "41/2 stars.. While the quirky popmeister who fronted Jules and the Polar Bears evolved into a more contemplative and serious-minded songwriter some years back, Jules Shears tenth album, 2006s Dreams Dont Count, still comes as something of a surprise in its sadly beautiful documentation of a landscape of broken hearts and busted dreams. Beginning with the bitterly rueful Bad Connection, a spare but indelible portrait of a relationship on its last legs, Dreams Dont Count features a dozen songs for a rainy day, with little sunlight poking through this litany of love that failed and wishes that failed to come through. While the downbeat tone of Dreams Dont Count rarely lifts, it also ranks with some of Shears finest work; his wordplay is masterful (Ive still got a picture of you/ But its not you anymore cuts to the quick of a affair turned sour, and I love you wherever I am today is a telling description of how old love can uncomfortably linger long past its sell-by date), the primarily acoustic arrangements (frequently accompanied by a small string section) set off the melodies beautifully, and the passage of time has worn Shears slightly froggy voice into an instrument that expresses sorrow with heartbreaking clarity. For all the sadness of Dreams Dont Count, this isnt an album about callow self-pity, but a mature reflection upon the little ways life can take an unexpected turn, and where those detours can lead. If it isnt always fun, its also richly perceptive and truly beautiful, and its as satisfying as anything Shear has ever released."-AMG. Dreams Dont Count is a distinctive exercise in record making for this preeminent American songwriter. Backed primarily by viola, cello, and accordion, this mature and wonderfully intelligent album allows Jules to showcase his talents in an extraordinary but unusual setting. Old and new fans alike will be thrilled by his one of a kind acoustic playing style and a voice that People Magazine has said, "make[s] him seem vulnerable and a bit insecure, a perfect match for lyrics about luckless, hopeless romantics". From darker, heartfelt tracks like "You Anymore" to more upbeat, though still introspective cuts like "Do What They Want," this album takes listeners on a journey that is emotionally and intellectually engaging. It is undeniably a high-water mark in Jules song craft.
 Used To It - mp3
You Anymore - mp3
Do What They Want To - mp3
Sinners Who Believed - mp3 | 
