Not your typical Nashville artist
BigAl | Idaho | 09/24/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Greg Trooper breaks the stereotypes of Nashville songwriters. In "You Love Your Broken Heart" he sings of a lover that won't allow themself to love back. "I'd like to think the time has come/ for ancient wounds to heal/ to shake off all the ghosts that still remain/. . . /but you love your broken heart too much to change." As in his prior recordings the songs often feel confessional, showing emotional ambiguity about the situation the song's protagonist finds himself in.Produced by Phil Madeira this release has a smoother sound than Greg's previous albums, not good or bad, just different. "Doghouse" shows an edgier feel than anything he's done in the past. With the exception of "Trampoline", which was previously released on co-writer Bill Lloyd's 1994 "Set to Pop" release the compositions on this collection are newer songs showing Trooper's continued growth as a songwriter.Greg's songs always sound best when he performs them, but we can expect other artists to release cover versions as has happened in the past. His songs have thus far been covered by such country and folk artists as Steve Earle, Vince Gill, and Lucy Kaplansky. One potential cover is "Sometimes it Takes a Hurricane", a song with a catchy chorus and a timely message, much like the title track from his "Everywhere" CD.Anyone who enjoys great intelligent songwriting will appreciate this and all of Greg Trooper's CDs. He's also a great live performer, don't miss the chance to see him in your town."
Songs from the Heart
BigAl | 04/24/2001
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Mr. Trooper, once again, has assembled a collection of charming, heartfelt songs. Straight Down Rain tends to have more of a studio, refined, plugged-in sound than the acoustic Popular Demons. From the whimsical Trampoline to his eternal optimism in anticipation of a second chance at love (Nothin But You), Greg Trooper weaves some interesting stories that make me roll down the windows in my minivan on a sunny day and sing out loud!"
Americana from New York via Nashville
BigAl | 06/08/2001
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Call it what you want, folk country americana, it's all here. there is even a waltz, a damn fine one too. Purchased this CD from Trooper at a show, and he is even more open live than on disc. Buy this and amaze your friends, I have and do>"