Barry Gifford - what's the consensus?

I read the "American Falls" collection and was underwhelmed, despite some fine clear writing. He struck me as a "less is less" writer. But I'm willing to be believe that the fault is mine, and that I just don't get it.

he's one of those people who probably hasn't been helped by being published sooooo much. I liked the sailor and lula books, didn't like baby cat face, gather that some of his non-fiction writing is solid. he seems to have no real hardcore following of either readers or critics, but has no problem putting a book out every six months.

he lives in berkeley and I got to see him introduce directors cuts of Lynch's Hotel Room films that they did together.

He has two books out with photographer David Perry - "Hot Rod" and "Bordertown." The (v. short) fiction in each is so-so, the photography is great.