The thing about Dylan - even when he's bad, he's interesting. You could say that about most of his '80s records, although to tell you the truth, I've been pleasantly surprised as I've gradually picked them up. Maybe it's low expectations. But I think a lot of the songs themselves are really great - it was just a perfect storm of Bob (or his producers) trying too hard to be trendy and current... and the fact that his voice couldn't really carry him the way they once did. I know that sounds strange, because his voice has always been an acquired taste. But even for those who do like his phrasing and his singing mannerisms, the '80s Bob voice was pretty hard to love. Later he would change his singing strategy completely, with great results (late '90s-early '00s).
But back to Empire Burlesque. For some reason, it seems that Bob felt the need to keep up with the times. So you have some pretty fantastic songs dressed up in the absolute worst '80s trappings - synthesizers, bad backing vocals, the works. (Side note: I challenge you to find a more grotesque album cover.)
But the songs themselves? Some of them are excellent. I'm serious. They're just hidden by awful production and Bob's '80s whine. That's the think about his '80s work. You have to listen for what the songs could have been, not what they are. "I'll Remember You" is just a killer love song, if you ignore the drum machine. "Something's Burning, Baby" has some genuine dark mystery.
And then there's "Emotionally Yours." I would be mortified if anyone heard me blaring this song in the car, but that doesn't mean I don't blare it. First of all, just try writing a song like this - so direct and earnest. Darn near impossible. The melody is really lovely - one of Bob's best. Some great lines, too - "to see behind closed doors." Just try to ignore the synth garbage and the Casio drumbeat. And don't let anyone hear you enjoy it.
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