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SOUNDS LIKE TEXAS
by Gary Moore
TROY CAMPBELL
Man v. Beast
Of the many descriptive
words used to describe Troy Young Campbell's Man vs. Beast, ethereal is
our favorite. It's useful to describe those records you can put on after
coming home from a "night on the town". There's that buzz in your head
from loud music over loud conversation, or that deafening silence after
a harsh argument with a significant other. The aftermath requires a
soothing sound. Whether you fell in love "at first sight", or you've
been told, "can we still be friends?", Man vs. Beast will do the trick.
Troy's voice is like a modern Roy Orbison. Renowned rock critic Dave
Marsh said "his singing and lyrics place him somewhere between early
Neil Young and solo Don Henley." We give his vocal prowess much more
credit than that. His voice casts his lyrics in a beautiful light.
Troy states that there is
more intimacy in his music than ever before. The former front man of
Loose Diamonds lays his romantic lyrics on clouds of understated
instrumentation, like a newborn in a crib of satin covered down. It's
beautiful, chilling music.
He is joined by the
underrated Patty Griffin on two cuts. Ray Wylie Hubbard, Craig Ross, and
Jon Dee Graham supply support as well. Co-production credit goes to Troy
and a laundry list of others. Troy deserves the large praise for the
tasteful use of space, and the tasteful use of producers. Long bending
notes replace rapid chord changes, and the piano and cello on
"Somewhere" complete a masterfully constructed piece of art.
Troy Young Campbell battles
the beast with careful, calculated moves. His nonviolent approach to
dealing with demons is refreshing in a world sorely lacking compassion.
Have this one handy to clear the cobwebs and ensure that Man conquers
beast....at least for tonight.
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