Blues Traveler - Blues Traveler 1990

Blues Traveler -  Blues Traveler 1990

Blues

Blues Traveler's loose jam structures on basic blues riffs mark them as a band in the tradition of such predecessors as the Grateful Dead. Unlike that communal effort, however, this group has a distinct focal point in virtuoso harmonica player and vocalist John Popper, who keeps things from meandering too much.
By William Ruhlmann, All Music Guide.
**
Led by John Popper's virtuoso harmonica playing, Blues Traveler introduced a distinctive new sound into the burgeoning New York City jam-band scene in the late 1980s. On their self-titled debut, the quartet introduced 11 blues-tinged rock tunes that in concert would spread out to extended improvisations, but on record often had the snap of compact, well-structured pop. "But Anyway," became an early signature tune, thanks to Popper's dexterous soloing and his rapid-fire delivery of the song's flippant lyrics. The shapeshifting "Slow Change," gives a better indication of the group's performance chops, as do "Sweet Talking Hippie," "Gina," and the wistful "100 Years," which have become longtime concert staples.
By Daniel Durchholz.
**
Though Blues Traveler's 1990 debut gets docked points for having foisted on the world a "jam band" scene whose white funk-boogie reprised some of the worst excesses and stifling professionalism of '70s rock, it's hard to write the album off as simply a bunch of aimless displays of improvisational chops. Yes, there's plenty of wanking and not enough songs here. But when grooves, melodies, and song structures emerge--most notably on "But Anyway"--it's practically unforgettable. And even at its worst, the band's playing--especially John Popper's virtuoso harmonica blowing--is always impeccable and occasionally thrilling. If it's yuppie rock you crave, you could do a lot worse.
By Roni Sarig.
**
Blues Traveler certainly became more mainstream with the Four release with smash singles Hook and Runaround. And Four is certainly a fine record. However, the debut release just might be the best. The band is raw and honest sounding with many spunky and funky jams.
The single, But Anyway may have a catchy structure but the fine guitar and harmonica solos just keep my attention. The streak of great songs just continues. The rapping and catchy lyrics of Mulling It Over makes me chuckle. John Popper is sure thoughtful with his lyrics. 100 Years is a pleasant ballad and Warmer Days is a fine blues number featuring Joan Osbourne on background vocals. And Alone is so captivating with its shifts from slow to fast.

Truthfully there isn't a dull moment on this release. If you were HOOKED on Blues Traveler because of their radio friendly hits, you certainly owe it to yourself to explore the roots of this excellent band.
By G. J Wiener.
**
Chris Barron- (Vocals Background),
Brendan Hill- (Percussion),(Drums),
Justin Niebank- (Clapping),
John Popper- (Vocals),(12 String Guitar),(Harmonica),
Howie Wyeth- (Piano),
Joan Osborne- (Vocals Background).
**
01. But Anyway 4:09
02. Gina 4:03
03. Mulling It Over 3:44
04. 100 Years 3:43
05. Dropping Some NYC 3:20
06. Crystal Flame 9:38
07. Slow Change 4:55
08. Warmer Days 4:55
09. Gotta Get Mean 3:50
10. Alone 7:33
11. Sweet Talking Hippie 6:22
**
NoPassword
*
DLink
*