#Turnpike Troubadours Concert Review

[themusicenthusiast]

Friday, September 29th, 2017 – New Songs and Old Favorites Abound as the Turnpike Troubadours Rush to Beat Curfew at Western Days

What a perfect opening day it was for Western Days. The annual event in downtown Lewisville was kicking off with cloudy skies concealing the sun; the light showers that had fallen around D-FW no longer being a threat as festival goers entered into the grounds... or so people thought. Some drops were felt every now and then as the night progressed, though it was more annoying than anything, and certainly not heavy enough for attendees to bail early. Some heavy hitters had been tapped to headline the two-day event this year, beginning with The Turnpike Troubadours, who were doing their first headline gig in North Texas since the end of 2016. Free for those that arrived before seven and a mere ten dollars for everyone that couldn't make it until later, the price was impossible to beat. Couple that with the fact that the Oklahoma-based outfit is capable of selling out venues that boast a capacity of several thousand and there was no doubt that the street would be packed by the time ten o'clock rolled around. Sure enough, it went from being relatively empty just a few hours before to a staggering amount of Turnpike fans covering every lane on Church Street as their set time neared. There was a nice mix of fans out as well. A few young kids sported Turnpike Troubadours shirts, speaking ecstatically about what they hoped to hear, while others ranged into their sixties or so, with every other age group in between also represented. They were all eager for the band of the hour, roaring fanfare greeting them as they finally took the stage at 10:02, Evan Felker waving at the congregation as he stepped out underneath the stage lights. A track of pummeling percussion was what they walked out to, the intro piece adding to the excitement as it set the stage for what was sure to be something thrilling.

“Well, she was born in the morning, late October, San Antone…” The throng of fans echoed along on that opening line of “Every Girl”; the delight that filled the air upon everyone recognizing it being palpable. Even if you knew (or at least expected) that it was coming it still provided such an excellent start to the show, the chipper mood that the beloved song maintains setting the pace for the rest of the night. As it reached the end, repeating that opening line, Felker raised an arm towards the sky and twirled his hand around, as if encouraging everyone to help them out again. The audience picked up on that cue, belting it out with more passion than before as they then moved directly on to the next number. Diamonds & Gasoline was the focus for the first handful of cuts, that lead track from it giving way to the subsequent song, “7 & 7”. Ryan Engleman was wielding a double neck guitar for the first couple of tunes, seeming to make them a little more intricate as he occasionally shifted between the two, while ratcheting up the “cool” factor exponentially, the axe-slinger radiating a confidence as he waved it about, brandishing it in the air as the song concluded. Kyle Nix was also featured prominently on that sing-along, the fiddle prevailing throughout it, overpowering the other instruments for a few fleeting moments and sounding fantastic. “The last Texan in the band” was how Felker referred to Hank Early, the pedal steel player leaving his seat and grabbing the accordion; the upbeat “Shreveport” being the ideal follow-up. Live, it’s incredibly up-tempo, the rapid setting that the musicians move to making it downright irresistible. That fast pace ensures it’s perfect for a clap along, something that Felker incited as the bridge came around. The accordion received some prime time throughout “1968”, fading into the mix and stealing the show for a moment before tapering back off in excellent fashion. The backing vocals were also quite strong on that one, adding another layer to the performance, while Engleman simply mouthed along to the words of the song that he was firmly invested in. Four songs in and the Turnpike Troubadours hit their first real break of the night. The silence didn’t last long however, soon being broken by a drum roll courtesy of Gabriel Pearson. A certain drum roll that can elicit a reaction stronger than any of the other tracks in their impressive arsenal. It was extended, beginning somewhat reserved before Pearson packed more force into it; a bit of a collective gasp transforming to cheers and elated screams once everyone discerned that it was “Good Lord Lorrie”. “Thank you, ladies and gentlemen,” was Felker’s response to the massive fanfare that erupted after that one was done. That was about the extent of the dialogue this night, the group wanting to utilize every second they could and deliver the songs that everyone expected from them, the fiddle soon piercing the silence as Nix set them off on what stood out as another fan favorite, “Kansas City Southern”. “…That’s a hell of a lot of people!” Felker remarked afterwards, some of the lights illuminating the crowd, highlighting the droves of fans that had turned out. The singer and acoustic guitarist then mentioned they had a new record coming out soon (A Long Way From Your Heart due out on October 20th via Bossier City) and asked if it would be okay if they played some new songs from it. No one had any qualms with that. They only did a couple, and surprisingly, the first of those was not one of the promotional singles that they have released from it. “Pay No Rent” has undergone a radical transformation since last December, the then newly written song being performed in a bare-bones manner at a show in Shawnee, Oklahoma. In some ways, that format is behooving of the beauty the track conveys, though the fleshed-out sound they’ve since given it was still transfixing in its own right. Slightly relaxed by Turnpike Troubadours’ standards -- the bass and drums being subtler -- it’s still an exceptional song that is teeming with emotion. You could tell the newer songs are still being worked on in regards to incorporating them into the live setting, a lengthy stick count seeming as if it was going to be the precursor to the next track before the clacking ceased. Instead, the six-piece outfit just launched right in to the lead single from the forthcoming record, “The Housefire”. It earned some strong reactions from the concert goers, considering it had only been out for about a month prior to this show. A sure sign that it is, at the very least, well liked. Actually, it wound up being their best song of the night, that story oriented track sounding absolutely superb. Depicting a young family -- husband, wife and baby – who narrowly get out from their burning home and subsequently lose it all, it succeeded in capturing a mood the likes of which none of their other songs do. The instrumentation translates extraordinarily well live, a crucial piece of what made it so riveting, the tale itself evoking an array of keen feelings, thus making certain it struck a chord with everyone. The recording portrays it as a great song, no one would argue that, but live, that’s where “The Housefire” is at its best. Further grabbing one’s attention while listening to that song is the fact that “Lorrie” makes another appearance, be it the same character from a couple of past works or just a version of the enigmatic woman. And how appropriate it was that they follow it with the final song referencing that character. Some twangy licks from the guitars accompanied an atmospheric and somewhat eerie sounding transitional piece, the haunting tones suddenly being broken by the opening chords of “The Mercury”. That rocker ultimately came to a sizzling finish, the deafening notes resonating out into the open air; the band only halfway through the show they had planned. And, much as is stated in that song, they were just starting to hit their stride. “Down Here” lightened the mood some after a couple of heavier songs (in terms of the story elements), and as they breezed through that reassuring track, it apparently dawned on them that they were sans their normal light guy, Reece, who according to the congratulatory post on Facebook was spending some time with his newborn baby. Felker mentioned him afterwards, dedicating their next song to him. In its own way, “Blue Star” was a perfect tribute to their friend and integral part of their team. Engleman began strolling around the stage much more, stretching his legs and visiting his band mates, he and bassist RC Edwards locking eyes for a moment and jamming on what was the first of a series of offerings from Goodbye Normal Street. The next two were the most popular songs from that five-year-old album, the first of which required Felker to swap out to a banjo. Engleman laid down a slick solo in advance of the third verse of “Gin, Smoke, Lies”, an ominous interlude that would fit well in an old western film serving as the bridge between it and the next number. It was foreshadowing of the chaos that would unfold during “Before the Devil Knows We're Dead”, which saw the musicians put a certain amount of grit into it that outdid their previous cuts. It was done with sheer conviction, another clap along being worked in at that point; Felker changing up one of the lines, instead singing, “…I’m thirty-something years old now…” There was no recovery time for the spectators. Applause had just begun when the initially soothing tones of “Whole Damn Town” quelled it. The poignant breakup song was magnificent, a smooth quality abounding at every turn, contributed largely thanks to Felker and the way in which he delivered the lyrics. “Thank you, Western Days,” he stated quickly as they broke into what everyone knew signified the end of the show: “Bossier City”. Audience participation was practically a requirement, from more clapping to a chorus or two that was turned over entirely to the crowd. As usual, it also featured a formal introduction of each of the band members accompanied by an opportunity to let their talents shine. Nix was first up with a soaring fiddle solo, Engleman following suit, with Early going all-out on his accordion soon after. “The Good Doctor himself” (as he was introduced) RC Edwards laid down a strong bass solo with Pearson winding it down, while Felker brought it home with a great piece on the harmonica. Technically that was it, the conclusion of their 67-minute long set, though Felker remained on stage, immediately starting the encore. He opted for something that was unexpected, a song he would later say “only goes over in Texas”. It’s hard to believe that not everyone would at least enjoy “Empty as a Drum” (a song that ranks high on my list of personal favorite Turnpike songs), though maybe it is a Texan thing. People appreciated the rarely heard tune; the desperation and longing that’s conveyed in the story seeping into Felker’s delivery of the lyrics, guaranteeing it was an emotional powerhouse. He then headed for the wings, the rest of the band making their way back out, Edwards taking the helm for what has become a staple song of theirs over the past year or two. “…We’re gonna get drunk. We’re gonna get high. We’re gonna get loud!” goes the refrain of the pure party song that is steeped in authentic country, Edwards’ Southern drawl providing the tacks’ primary charm. It was all hands-on deck for the ol’ John Hartford song that Felker stated had worked well for them over the years. Indeed, they have made “Long Hot Summer Day” their own, putting their mark on it and making it a signature of their performances. It’s so fun and vibrant, akin to the same vibe that “Bossier City” emanates, and it provided a fitting end to that 14-minute long encore. Still, fans weren’t ready to leave yet. Some made their move for the gates, though most were steadfast and determined as the cries for an encore grew. There would be one more, but only one, as the band had a curfew to meet. “…It’s kind of funny,” Felker admitted, almost thinking aloud. “You get into the music business and then you have a curfew.” One noticeably absent song was “The Bird Hunters”, which was remedied with their final few minutes, the six of them leaving the stage triumphantly, holding their instruments high before they disappeared from view. They had thoroughly entertained the masses that had turned out, delivering a caliber of performance that fans have come to expect… and they beat curfew. They may have not visited North Texas much this year, though the Turnpike Troubadours have certainly not been taking it easy in terms of touring, the rigorous schedule they keep continuing to push them further as musicians and performers. That was noticeable on this night, the six of them appearing more at home than ever on stage, a determined spirit ever present as they tore through that extensive set list. One comprised mainly of songs they surely know by heart, yet ones they still manage to inject new life into, capturing a sense of freshness no matter how many times one has seen the band and heard their hits. By possessing that kind of ability it’s no wonder why people keep turning out to see them, the crowds continuously growing larger with each trip they make to a city. Aside from their prowess as musicians, the Turnpike Troubadours strengths lie in their music. Their blend of Americana, Red Dirt and country styles, hefty doses of rock mixed in, creating something that is familiar yet distinct, different from everything else out there. There is a catchy quality about their music, while the stories they spin reel one in, creating immense interest in what is happening and where things will go next. Their new music, judging by what they have released thus far as well as what they performed this night, seems to exemplify that better than ever before. They work to get deeper and convey a more personal outlook than any of their past works (which is saying something), proving that the best is yet to come for the Turnpike Troubadours. Best of all, though, has to be the fact that these tried and true performers genuinely enjoy doing what they do. That’s evident by watching them, and they work to make sure the onlookers are having as great a time as they are. All of that is a definite winning combination. On October 20th, the day that A Long Way From Your Heart releases, the band will be performing at The Criterion in Oklahoma City, OK for the official CD release show. Other upcoming shows include the Harvest Maroon Fest at Wolf Pen Creek Amphitheater in College Station, TX on October 13th; headlining The Blue Light Live Street Concert in Lubbock, TX on October 14th; and performing at the Walker Theater in Chattanooga, TN on October 23rd. The Gramercy Theatre in New York, NY will host them on October 25th; on November 9th they’ll be in Wichita, KS at The Cotillion; and on December 1st and 2nd they’ll do a two-night stand at ACL Live at Moody Theater in Austin, TX. For more details along with a complete listing of their show schedule, go HERE. Also, make sure you go to iTUNES or GOOGLE PLAY and pre-oder A Long Way From Your Heart or grab their previous releases.

[themusicenthusiast]

Single Review: “The Housefire” by Turnpike Troubadours

It has felt like a long (almost) two years that fans of the Turnpike Troubadours have been waiting for new music, thanks in large part to the bands’ rabid fan base that is constantly eager to know what will be coming next from the acclaimed Americana/Red Dirt outfit. The small handful of new songs that have seeped into the set lists at live shows over the past year has only fueled anticipation, people knowing something had to be coming soon. That something is A Long Way from Your Heart (due out on October 20th via Bossier City Records), and to whet appetites they released “The Housefire”, the song from which they derived the album title acting as the lead single (and lead track) from their upcoming fifth studio album. It’s immediately evident the song is one of the Troubadours, yet it’s different. The harmonica that sets it in motion screams Turnpike Troubadours as does the fiddle, some serene and gorgeous notes coming at just the right places, while the twangy pedal steel guitar is artfully woven in, arguably being the most enticing quality about “The Housefire”.

The instrumentation feels more akin to the Diamonds & Gasoline era – a great stage to draw from – with the one difference that everything sounds more precise. RC Edwards, Kyle Nix, Ryan Engleman, Evan Felker, Gabriel Pearson, and Hank Early have clearly put plenty of effort into refining and further honing their sound, this song at least representing a huge step forward from even their self-titled effort of 2015. That’s not to insinuate that “The Housefire” is some vast departure, but rather that the musicians have noticeable put work into further perfecting their sound, seizing upon the mindset that there is always room for improvement, now sounding more self-assured than ever; the music bed standing as one of their most solid and pronounced one’s ever, and it’s pretty close to perfect. There’s some rock tendencies heard it; the verses being more in the vein of a folk or even a singer/songwriter track, one that is then fleshed out with their Red Dirt/country stylings. A unique blend, for sure, but one that ensures the music is as riveting as the story. In regards to the story, “The Housefire” winds up being Felker’s greatest achievement to date, which is definitely saying something. Every Troubadour fan knows that he’s a talented singer and songwriter, though this offering showcases his knack as a storyteller in a completely different light. It is a legitimate story song, and while it centers around events that Felker surely hasn’t experienced firsthand, he has no trouble convincing the listener that he has lived it. Just as Bruce Springsteen is infatuated by “Mary”, Felker seems equally taken by “Lorrie”, that character – or at least a version of her – making another appearance in “The Housefire”, this time filling the role of the heroine. As the title suggests it’s a song about losing everything from the perspective of a young couple who has recently started their own family. It’s most compelling elements are found in the nuances of the lyrics, the tiny details that almost seem irrelevant from the listeners perspective yet in actuality are what make the song so convincing, further perpetuating the idea that these are accounts taken directly from Felker’s personal life. For example, portions of the first verse. “…Lorrie grabbed the baby and we made it safe outside… and wrapped him in a Carhartt coat she found out in my ride.” The fact that the baby got bundled up in something even seems unnecessary, let alone a specific brand of coat that acted as a makeshift blanket, yet those specific details serve to make “The Housefire” feel overwhelmingly real. They paint a vivid picture in people’s minds. The fact that this is happening in the midst of December almost being casually slipped in on the second verse, the line “Next thing I remember I was barefoot in December…” portraying the other character, the husband, as still being dismayed and in shock as he works to process things. In just minutes it thoroughly explores the devastating events and the aftermath, from the family losing everything but a couple of possessions the man ventured back inside to get (“…I got out with a photograph and my old auto 5.”) to the frightening uncertainty the now looms, the characters finally feeling like they might be getting ahead in life but have suddenly found themselves back at square one. Nothing to call theirs, residing in a motor home that’s barely standing. Nevertheless, there’s an overwhelming sense of optimism about the song, shining through even on the choruses and heard best on the fourth verse, “She said, ‘I'll bet you make it. It's a long way from your heart’.” That’s where it’s relatable to anyone going through a hard time, because at its core “The Housefire” is about how you confront adversity. It may not be easy, but it’s always possible to move on, the song focusing on the resilience of the human spirit even in the darkest of times as it stresses to remember what you do have and remain grateful for it. As it comes to a close, it comes full circle, explaining the significance of those two personal items that were worth rushing back into a burning home for. “…A picture of the three of us and my grandfather's Browning.” “The Housefire” successfully and with absolute ease puts the listener in the shoes of the characters it depicts, lyrically touching on the key senses (sights, sounds and smells) of such an event and the flood of emotions that come after, ultimately creating as authentic an experience as any song could ever hope to. Despite the down-and-out moments, it winds up being a reminder to never let things get you down, no matter what hand you get dealt. “Getting by” is relative, and so long as you have the most important things -- such as your family -- you may be able to do that with less than you ever thought possible. This single seemingly introduces fans to a new era of the Turnpike Troubadours. “The Housefire” having them in rare form even by their standards, and in all aspects, the music and the lyrics, it is a cut above their previous material. They may well have pushed themselves to a new level independently and as a collective and if the rest of A Long Way from Your Heart is on par with this track than they’ll prove that. Pre-order A Long Way from Your Heart on: iTunes | Google Play | Amazon MP3 Visit Turnpike Troubadours’ websites: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter Current Shows: 2017 September 14--The Rev Room--Little Rock, AR 16--Blue Note--Columbia, MO 23--Diamondhead Resort--Tahlequah, OK 29--Western Days in Downtown Lewisville--Lewisville, TX 30--Mighty Mississippi Music Festival--Greenville, MS October 6--The Shrine Mosque--Springfield, MO 7--Scottie's Grill--Texarkana, TX 12--Hacienda Event Center--Midland, TX 13--Wolf Pen Creek--College Station, TX 14--The Blue Light Live Street Concert--Lubbock, TX 20--The Criterion--Oklahoma City, OK 23--The Walker Theatre--Chattanooga, TN 25--Gramercy Theatre--New York, NY 27--Jefferson Theater--Charlottesville, VA 28--Variety Playhouse--Atlanta, GA 29--Druid City Music Hall--Tuscaloosa, AL November 10—Boondocks--Springfield, IL 11--Vic Theater--Chicago, IL 2018 February 9-- Truman Water Front Park Theater--Key West, FL

[themusicenthusiast]

2016: A Year in Review - The Top 10′s

I have an utter disdain for lists. They degrade the industry (the news industry, entertainment industry, etc.) and have allowed for a shift away from meaningful content. It is much easier to churn out a quick list (*Insert random artist*’s greatest 15 songs; Best 100 songs/films/TV series of all time; The 50 Best Songs of the Year) than an article with real meaning, such as an editorial piece or a review that contains some sort of original thought and feeling. Lists are void of any true emotion and are almost entirely subjective, that’s why I dislike them. That’s why there’s only one time of year anything of that matter will appear on this site, and even then I refrain from using certain terms, like “best” or “greatest”. The following are nothing more than my personal favorite releases from this past year, divided into an LP’s and EP’s category with a list of my top ten concerts thrown in as well. If you’re unfamiliar with any of the artists, I urge you to check them out, and to make it a little easier, there’s a Spotify playlist at the end of the article. (Also, check out my Honorable Album Mentions list, in case you missed it.) Top 10 LP’s:

1.) Artist: Volbeat Album: Seal The Deal & Let's Boogie (Republic Records) Must Listen Song: “The Devil's Bleeding Crown” 2.) Artist: Alter Bridge Album: The Last Hero Must Listen Song: “My Champion” 3.) Artist: Kaleo Album: A/B (Elektra/Atlantic Records) Must Listen Song: “Way Down We Go” 4.) Artist: Thrice Album: To Be Everywhere Is To Be Nowhere (BMG Rights Management) Must Listen Song: “Blood on the Sand” 5.) Artist: Soviet Dog Fight Album: The Hotel (Self-released) Must Listen Song: “He Said” 6.) Artist: Bayside Album: Vacancy (Hopeless Records) Must Listen Song: “Rumspringa (Return to Heartbreak Road)” 7.) Artist: Failure Anthem Album: First World Problems (Razor and Tie) Must Listen Song: “First World Problems” 8.) Artist: Lera Lynn Album: Resistor Must Listen Song: “Shape Shifter” 9.) Artist: Red Fang Album: Only Ghosts (Relapse Records) Must Listen Song: “Flies” 10.) Artist: Korn Album: The Serenity of Suffering (Roadrunner Records) Must Listen Song: “Rotting In Vain”

Top 10 EP’s: 1.) Artist: Northern National Album: The New Age (Self-released) Must Listen Song: “Addiction” 2.) Artist: Goodbye June Album: Danger In The Morning (Interscope Records) Must Listen Song: “Oh No” 3.) Artist: VÉRITÉ Album: Living Must Listen Song: “Constant Crush” 4.) Artist: DREAMERS Album: You Are Here (Fairfax Entertainment Group) Must Listen Song: “Wolves (You Got Me)” 5.) Artist: Paralandra Album: All Fall Down (Self-released) Must Listen Song: “Alive” 6.) Artist: Hailey Knox Album: A Little Awkward (BMG Rights Management) Must Listen Song: “Awkward” 7.) Artist: The Young Wild Album: All the Luck (Fairfax Entertainment Group) Must Listen Song: “All the Luck” 8.) Artist: Always the Alibi Album: Reprieve (Self-released) Must Listen Song: “Ain't Another Girl” 9.) Artist: Catherine McGrath Album: One (Warner Bros Records) Must Listen Song: “Hell Would Have To Freeze Over” 10.) Artist: Chelsea Lankes Album: Chelsea Lankes (B3SCI Records) Must Listen Song: “Secret” Top 10 Concerts of 2016: 1.) Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band at American Airlines Center in Dallas, TX. (Tuesday, April 5th) 2.) Shinedown at H-E-B Center in Cedar Park, TX with Halestorm, Whiskey Myers, and Black Stone Cheery. (Sunday, July 31st)  3.) SouthFM at The Curtain Club in Dallas, TX with Big Story, Brandon Callies & The American Revival, and Trent Rush. (Friday, December 9th) 4.) Alter Bridge at House of Blues in Dallas, TX with Adelitas Way and 3 Pill Morning. (Friday, October 7th) 5.) Brand New and Modest Mouse at The Field at Verizon Theatre in Grand Prairie, TX. (Friday, July 22nd) 6.) The Turnpike Troubadours at Firelake Arena in Shawnee, OK with Randy Rogers Band. (Saturday, December 3rd) 7.) The Turnpike Troubadours at Billy Bob’s Texas in Fort Worth, TX. (Saturday, February 6th) 8.) John Moreland at The Kessler Theater in Dallas, TX with Lilly Hiatt. (Thursday, February 18th) 9.) Taste of Chaos Tour at Southside Ballroom in Dallas, TX with Dashboard Confessional, Taking Back Sunday, and Saosin. (Friday, July 1st) 10.) Lera Lynn at The Kessler Theatre in Dallas, TX with William Wild. (Sunday, September 18th) 2016 was an interesting year. For the first time in several years I didn’t even attend one hundred shows. (Not that 92 is too far off of that mark.) It was a year during which I became (slightly) more selective with how often I went to a concert. I caught a few less festivals than in the last couple of years, though River City Rockfest was a definite highlight, with Dia de los Toadies being another winner, and the Deep Ellum Arts Festival is always a blast. And despite it being a turbulent couple of days, Houston Open Air was entertaining and I look forward to what it can be in its second year. I had the privilege of photographing a ton of amazing bands; and The Music Enthusiast in general had a good year. A big “thank you” to everyone who has taken their time to read anything I’ve posted, not just within the past year but ever. No matter how frequent or infrequent you visit TME, I appreciate your support more than you know. Nearly eleven years in and I don’t plan on going anywhere anytime soon and will continue to post a few articles each week. Happy New Year to you all, and I hope everyone has an incredible 2017!!

[themusicenthusiast]

Single Review: “Pipe Bomb Dream” by Turnpike Troubadours

Each release from A Long Way From Your Heart (out October 20th via Bossier City) serves to further prove what an all-encompassing record it will be for the Turnpike Troubadours, the band working to push the boundaries of their soundscapes to the limits and beyond. It’s not as if “Pipe Bomb Dream” is totally out of character for them, though if you listen closely, there’s no denying that it possesses its own quality that none of their previous material has. It’s noticeable in the nuances, the guitar licks steeped in a traditional Western sound, like what was prevalent in classic country, a twang emanating from Ryan Engleman’s guitar work. The same effect is noticeable on the pedal steel guitar, Hank Early working it in at just the right moments to make it all more pronounced, providing a rich layer of texture before receding back into the background. This is one song where every instrument gets its moment to shine, the drums never being too sonorous, though the quick tempo it constantly keeps is the driving force behind “Pipe Bomb Dream”, easily enveloping the listener and pulling them into the tale that is a quasi-outlaw song; the rhythm section as a whole being rather prominent. The fiddle even prevails at times, the collective sound being harmonious and captivating, all of the intricacies woven in keeping one listening intently.

It’s a spellbinding blend of classic country and modern-day Americana, the worlds colliding to create something marvelous. The story itself is every bit as riveting, as it revolves around a man who served his country on the front lines, only to come home and get caught up on the wrong side of the law. It leaves the specifics out of it; even getting a tad political with the first verse, alluding to the fact that the (anti-)hero was no longer certain what they were doing in the war they were a part of, getting to a point where they were merely following orders, any hope of a positive outcome having practically evaporated. At the second verse it picks up back in the U.S. – Oklahoma, to be exact –the man pushing his luck in the shady business he’s presumably gotten into, getting caught before he can finish his run, the character ultimately conceding he knew he was in the wrong, despite how he tried to reason and rationalize it, his fate being a “cell block floor”. At its heart, “Pipe Bomb Dream” fits the Turnpike Troubadours mold to a tee. It may be unique even by their standards, though it is definitely a product of theirs, the story even having that real quality to it, no happily ever after nor even a decent outcome, fitting in line with their other works that portray the realistic fact that not everything in life will work out for the better. Pre-order A Long Way from Your Heart on: iTunes | Google Play | Amazon MP3 Visit Turnpike Troubadours’ websites: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter Current Shows: 2017 October 12--Hacienda Event Center--Midland, TX 13--Wolf Pen Creek--College Station, TX 14--The Blue Light Live Street Concert--Lubbock, TX 20--The Criterion--Oklahoma City, OK 21--George's Majestic--Fayetteville, AR 23--The Walker Theatre--Chattanooga, TN 24--Harvester Performance Center--Rocky Mount, VA 25--Gramercy Theatre--New York, NY 27--Jefferson Theater--Charlottesville, VA 28--Variety Playhouse--Atlanta, GA 29--Druid City Music Hall--Tuscaloosa, AL November 9--The Cotillion--Wichita, KS 10—Boondocks--Springfield, IL 11--Vic Theater--Chicago, IL 15--The Pageant--Saint Louis, MO 16--Liberty Hall--Lawrence, KS 17--Bourbon Theatre--Lincoln, NE 18--Buffalo Run Casino--Miami, OK December 1--ACL Live at Moody Theater--Austin, TX 2--ACL Live at Moody Theater--Austin, TX 14--The Aztec Theatre--San Antonio, TX 15--House Of Blues--Houston, TX 29--Choctaw Casino--Grant, OK 30--Cain's Ballroom--Tulsa, OK 31--Cain's Ballroom--Tulsa, OK 2018 February 3--Matthew Knight Arena--Eugene, OR 9-- Truman Water Front Park Theater--Key West, FL

[themusicenthusiast]

Single Review: “Sunday Morning Paper” by Turnpike Troubadours

What a perfect song “Sunday Morning Paper” is for the current times we’re living in. Times when the legends and pioneers of music, rock, country, whatever the genre may be, are starting to grow old, running out of time to contribute further to their legacies. “Sunday morning paper said, ‘rock ‘n’ roll is surely dead’…” the latest single from the Turnpike Troubadours begins; the song acting as the final cut on A Long Way From Your Heart (due out on October 20th via Bossier City). That line perfectly sums up the feeling upon finding out an icon has passed, the lyrics further delving in to the impact those deaths have on fans, who partly assume that those heroes are larger than life and will always be around. It’s an accurate depiction of feelings felt by many over the last couple of years or so, especially in the wake of so many high-profile stars’ untimely ends, making it seem like rock – or the music world in general – could never be the same again.

While it was clearly written about someone specific, “Sunday Morning Paper” feels applicable to any such situation, as it also explores the darker side of the industry that the artists’ experience, be it depression, drugs or anything of that ilk, while also hinting at one’s desire to revolutionize the industry and bring about some sort of serious change. Musically, it’s a stark difference from anything that Turnpike Troubadours have done in the past, truly entering new ground for the Oklahoma-based group. A pure country vibe to it, it’s akin to the style that was popular in the ‘50s, a relaxed vibe about it, the gentle picking of the guitar and serene notes from the pedal steel guitar being behooving of the atmosphere it works to capture, the rhythm section being present, but never dominating the song, keeping Evan Felker’s voice constantly at the forefront. There’s even a hint of ragtime influences heard if you listen closely enough, all of that being well outside the established wheelhouse for the band, yet it’s still something they pull off magnificently well. The lengthy instrumental portions allow them ample time to fully showcase this new experiment, the fiddle taking center stage for a time as well as they keys. It is lacking that certain quality their most beloved songs have, leading one to believe that “Sunday Morning Paper” won’t have a spot in the set list much after the initial run in promoting this forthcoming record (unless it becomes part of the solo acoustic portion of performances), though that’s hardly a strike against it. It’s still an expertly written song, one that taps into a place of raw emotions that everyone can relate to on some level, and that level of craftsmanship in music isn’t seen enough. Due to that, it fits in line with everything else that has been teased from A Long Way From Your Heart, the stories being taken to the next level as the Turnpike Troubadours further cement their status as a powerhouse in the world of Americana music, one that knows how to pen riveting music and tales to accompany it. “…Never one time did I ever dream you wouldn't live forever. Bet you never planned on getting old.” Pre-order A Long Way from Your Heart on: iTunes | Google Play | Amazon MP3 Visit Turnpike Troubadours’ websites: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter Current Shows: 2017 October 6--The Shrine Mosque--Springfield, MO 7--Scottie's Grill--Texarkana, TX 12--Hacienda Event Center--Midland, TX 13--Wolf Pen Creek--College Station, TX 14--The Blue Light Live Street Concert--Lubbock, TX 20--The Criterion--Oklahoma City, OK 21--George's Majestic--Fayetteville, AR 23--The Walker Theatre--Chattanooga, TN 24--Harvester Performance Center--Rocky Mount, VA 25--Gramercy Theatre--New York, NY 27--Jefferson Theater--Charlottesville, VA 28--Variety Playhouse--Atlanta, GA 29--Druid City Music Hall--Tuscaloosa, AL November 9--The Cotillion--Wichita, KS 10—Boondocks--Springfield, IL 11--Vic Theater--Chicago, IL 15--The Pageant--Saint Louis, MO 16--Liberty Hall--Lawrence, KS 17--Bourbon Theatre--Lincoln, NE 18--Buffalo Run Casino--Miami, OK December 1--ACL Live at Moody Theater--Austin, TX 2--ACL Live at Moody Theater--Austin, TX 14--The Aztec Theatre--San Antonio, TX 15--House Of Blues--Houston, TX 29--Choctaw Casino--Grant, OK 30--Cain's Ballroom--Tulsa, OK 31--Cain's Ballroom--Tulsa, OK 2018 February 3--Matthew Knight Arena--Eugene, OR 9-- Truman Water Front Park Theater--Key West, FL

[themusicenthusiast]

Single Review: “Old Time Feeling (Like Before)” by Turnpike Troubadours

The release of A Long Way From Your Heart is drawing ever nearer (planned for October 20th and out via Bossier City Records), and the Turnpike Troubadours have offered up another glimpse at their fifth studio album that is shaping up to be just as excellent an entry to their catalog as their previous records have been. The Troubadours are no strangers to slow songs, having written some stunning pieces over the years that are poignant beyond belief, often capturing an overwhelmingly melancholy tone. They may be best known for their high-energy cuts that are utterly explosive in the live environment, though those bare-bones songs provide a crucial balance for the Americana outfit. And while they have penned some real heartbreakers over the years, this new promotional single, “Old Time Feeling (Like Before)”, may well take the cake as being the most gut-wrenching yet. It’s not a song about seemingly being stood up and slipping further into despair as you wait, nor is it one centered around pondering what your ex is doing now that you’re not in each other’s lives, and it’s also not about regret and being fearful in regards to how every other guy out there could now make their move on the woman whose heart you once had.

In theory scenarios such as those may sound like some of the most heartbreaking possible, but in reality it’s things like how easily people can drift out of one another’s life, especially if it’s done in pursuit of one’s dreams. That seems to be the driving force behind the story of “Old Time Feeling (Like Before)”, a song that first creates somewhat of a duel perspective, the first verse feeling behooving of musician who is struggling to make it, touring and performing as much as possible, while a few lines of the second verse allude to a woman who has headed for the big city life in hopes of striking it big in one career or another. It’s never fully optimistic, though it’s not sorrowful, either, a sense of contentment being conveyed in the music. The hope of crossing paths pervades the track and offers some sort of a silver lining, though it also gives attention to how set in their ways most people are, change being something rarely seen. “This old world will spin again. Play me like a violin… Well, I don't mind you playing me, just keep it in a major key…” That fourth verse captures the downtrodden tone of the song best, as it acknowledges moving on without a certain person in your life. Self-aware, it is accepting of the fact that there is no long-term future with the person you’re so enamored with. It acknowledges that and it’s accepting of it, grateful for what shared experiences you can have together and that is what makes “Old Time Feeling (Like Before)” so devastating. All of those emotions seep freely from Evan Felker’s voice, the singer calmly detailing the situation and laying the facts out, not making it any more – or any less – than exactly what it is. This track delves into a special kind of sadness, one not really explored previously by the Turnpike Troubadours, this one perhaps being their most relatable song yet. The music bed is conducive of the whole lonesome, desolate feelings conjured by the story. It’s intriguing to say the least, not being a true acoustic song yet having a lot in common with one. There are nods to traditional country woven in, the faintest hints of Americana noticeable but never prevalent. It covers a wide array of genres though doesn’t settle into any specific niche, almost qualifying as something completely new, but definitely securing a spot as being the distinct work of the Turnpike Troubadours. You have to admire the craftsmanship of this number, the subtle nuances that adorn the verses and choruses. The gentle use of the fiddle creates a sense of harmony, while the guitars and pedal steel guitar contribute a nice twang; the rhythm section taking more of a backseat on this one, but still faintly noticeable on occasion. “Old Time Feeling (Like Before)” may not be the kind of intense tune that so many people have come to absolutely love from RC Edwards, Kyle Nix, Ryan Engelman, Gabriel Pearson and Felker, though it’s no less riveting than those blistering hits from the past are. It’s a perfect one to let wash over you and take in all of the subtleties of the expertly written track that further highlights a new sense of confidence and mastery that the Troubadours have discovered. Pre-order A Long Way from Your Heart on: iTunes | Google Play | Amazon MP3 Visit Turnpike Troubadours’ websites: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter Current Shows: 2017 September 29--Western Days in Downtown Lewisville--Lewisville, TX 30--Mighty Mississippi Music Festival--Greenville, MS October 6--The Shrine Mosque--Springfield, MO 7--Scottie's Grill--Texarkana, TX 12--Hacienda Event Center--Midland, TX 13--Wolf Pen Creek--College Station, TX 14--The Blue Light Live Street Concert--Lubbock, TX 20--The Criterion--Oklahoma City, OK 23--The Walker Theatre--Chattanooga, TN 25--Gramercy Theatre--New York, NY 27--Jefferson Theater--Charlottesville, VA 28--Variety Playhouse--Atlanta, GA 29--Druid City Music Hall--Tuscaloosa, AL November 9--The Cotillion--Wichita, KS 10—Boondocks--Springfield, IL 11--Vic Theater--Chicago, IL 15--The Pageant--Saint Louis, MO 16--Liberty Hall--Lawrence, KS 17--Bourbon Theatre--Lincoln, NE December 1--ACL Live at Moody Theater--Austin, TX 2--ACL Live at Moody Theater--Austin, TX 14--The Aztec Theatre--San Antonio, TX 15--House Of Blues--Houston, TX 2018 February 9-- Truman Water Front Park Theater--Key West, FL