“Stop Runnin,” the first track, launches in with a very Tom-Petty-esque guitar part. Shortly after, Crosby’s gruff vocal hits it and I am listening. You got me, Jeff. Full band, rock and roll. Its good. The second track has a little bit of a Swinging Steaks feel to me, with the lead line of the electric guitar. I like the Steaks, this again, is good and I am hooked.
Subtle harmonies on the chorus just plain work. It’s a quick-fire lyric-verse situation. Crosby’s vocals have a grist from the mill feel; there is a break to his voice that is incredibly pleasing to listen to, and his voice is strong. By the time “Andy’s Song” comes on, I am in deep and reeling in how much this music feels good. I get a the Band / Band of Heathens influence here. It has a good groove, a rise and fall with each verse. There’s a “The Weight” vibe to it. The story is there, the musicality is there, the song is just great.
“Heart Like a Loaded Gun” is a nice break from the more raucous stuff. It is driven by a light piano, acoustic guitar, and then a slow drum beat. The opening up of the sound also puts the songwriting in full view and I can really dig into the lyrics, which I am thankful for. Some of these lines are just fantastic. This is a wonderfully crafted and written tune. It’s sticking with me long after I listen.
Like a killer on the run, like a lighter to the sun
Careless lover, heart like a loaded gun
“The Rose” is another one of those heartfelt tunes. The record is very well rounded in that respect. I bet this is a great live show to catch, with a mix of solo tunes, full band. There is even a nod to Dylan in the line “these ways, they have damaged where we are going, those who still refuse to notice that the times they are a changing.” I am speechless here. Just an excellent, excellent song.
Bottom line, this is feel-good music (to my ears). There are hints of Warren Haynes, Ryan Adams, and Tom Petty — quite an eclectic mix — contained within Crosby’s voice and writing. Then songs like the third track conjur up thoughts of the Band and Bob Dylan. This is very well-rounded and greatly produced music. The standout is Jeff Crosby’s voice. It’s just incredible, unique, and such a pleasure to listen to. In listening to this record, I have been made a fan of Jeff Crosby. Come to Boston, Jeff. You have a place to crash amigo.
