Ted Brown Solstice Canyon Loop Review by Gary Hill
There are healthy helpings of country music in the mix on this album. The disc lands more in the vein of folk rock most of the time, overall, though. It’s actually quite a dynamic release with a healthy range of sounds at play.
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Track by Track Review
Stops
There are some hints of country here, but overall this is more of a folk rocker. It’s packed full of roots sound and spirit. It has a classic musical texture and some solid hooks. It’s a great way to start the set.
Better At That
In some ways this is more country based than the opener. That said, the vocal deliver has more of a soft rock vibe. This isn’t quite a ballad, but the intensity and power does drop back from the level of the opener. It’s another solid tune.
Mr O'Neil
While this is track is more rocking, it’s also more decidedly country music based. It’s also meaty and quite compelling. It’s packed full of passion and power. It’s also catchy. It’s one of my favorites here. The guitar solo on this thing is pure rock magic.
Dark Side Of Memory Lane
Soft rock and country music merge on this number. It’s another that lands near the ballad end of the spectrum.
Come Back
Now, this comes in fairly slow, but definitely rocking. It’s got a real dramatic 70s rock vibe to it along with some bluesy angles. While there are still some country elements here, this is much more of a rock tune. There are some particularly tasty guitar fills built into this along with some cool hooks.
Little Running
Feeling rather balladic, this cut has a lot of folk and country in the mix. Overall it’s more of a soft rock tune, though. It’s one that just gels so well in every way. It’s another highlight of the disc.
Sugar And Daylight
Energetic rock based both on country and folk music, this isn’t a big change. It is, however, and effective piece of music. The pedal steel guitar lends some magic at times.
Lauraly
Slow moving and ballad-like, this track makes good use of harmonica. It has healthy helpings of country music influences, but it’s more of a folk tune overall.
