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Review

Steel Train

CD Title: Twilight Tales From The Prairies Of The Sun
Genre: Pop
# of Tracks: 15
Release Date: April 18th 2005

Reviewed on Apr 20, 2005
by Gary Lancaster (Gary).

For fans of Steel Train, 18th April 2005 couldn't come quick enough. The band maybe not so suprisingly signed to Drive Thru Records in 2003 and have since put out two small EPs. One of them was simply an album of covers... the great 1969. However, as I said. It was, just covers... and the much loved six track EP For You My Dear. Twilight Tales is the bands first full length album, and it's certainly been worth the wait.

Equal Parts rock, country, bluegrass, latin, funk and jam, this album is one to kick back and relax to. It's a far cry from the upbeat melodys of a New Found Glory style pop punk anthem that Drive Thru is commonly associated with, and is a refreshing anecdote in a modern music industry whos emphasis comes not from great musicians but from great songs. This album blends the two to create one relatively slow paced soul driven masterpiece that captivates the listener.

From the opening track, "Better Love", it's easy to work out why Drive Thru Records broke their own mould by signing Steel Train. This upbeat acoustic bitter-sweet love song is one that will stick in your head for hours. You'd be wrong however to think that this album was going to continue down this acoustic road that Steel Train are well known for, as track four, "The Lee Baby Simms Show: Episode 1" bursts into a Santana-esque forray of quirky guitar solos and contemparary drum beats. It's short, but it's great.

The haunting "Grace" is a reflection of the death of Jack Antoffs (vocals,guitar, piano) sister. He claims "It's an image of what it's like to be at a funeral, It captures a lot of anger and bitterness". A depressing, but landmark track for the band that pushes their genre-spanning abilities further than one could imagine. Clearly an emotional track which effects the listener. The sign of a great song.

The only problem with having "Grace" on the album is what to follow it up with. "Catch You On The Other Side" is a mandolin featuring bluegrass effigy, straying far from the disheartening tones of Grace, this track remains downbeat but lyrically leads the mind to a far happier place.

"Gypsy Waves" once again picks up that Santana vibe and introduces the real vocal talent of Jack Antoff. Soul with a voice, and not afraid to use it.

"Blue" is another captivating acoustic track which prays on the emotion of the listener. A touching track which is not dissimiliar to a Radiohead song of two.

Track 14, "W.95 Street High" is a funk endorsed blues crossed track featuring samples from... well... who knows what, but it works.

So how do you end an album like this? "I will Stay Here" is further evidence that Steel Train have clearly tapped their souls for influence in writing this album. An acoustic melody which attatches itself to your very own soul and has no intention of letting go.

...and yes, there is a hidden track, but it's hidden for a reason, and I'll let you find out what it is.

This album is representative of so many musical genres it's difficult to define it's actual genre. The influences of the band shine through, but to the effect of making even better music, rather than copying others and not trying. Their clean cut acoustic manner isn't for everyone... that's for sure. Not even all Drive Thru Fans can get along with this sound, but it's as Drive Thru as all the other bands on the label, and for good reason. It's soul driven, and it's original. I for one love it, and I know lots of you will too.

"Just be yourself".

Discuss This Review

Steel Train is pretty good, I will have to check out their new CD. [more]
Posted Apr 20, 2005 by Mike.

It's pretty country and bluegrass as a whole, but it's seriously catchy. Not something I'd ever have... [more]
Posted Apr 21, 2005 by Gary.

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