Trouble - Ray LaMontagne > Reviews > This should be a classic...

Author's product rating:   

Originality	Definitely a cut above the rest
Lyrics	Sublime
Quality and consistency of tracks	Flawless
How does it compare to the artist's other releases	Not applicable
Value for Money	Excellent

Advantages:	A classic, brooding album
Disadvantages:	Can't think of any !

Recommend to potential buyers:

yes

Full review

Are you a fan of Damien Rice, James Blunt or David Gray? Then this is an album you simply must at least listen to.

A modern classic that should be up there with the greats, Van Morrison, Damian Rice's "O" or James Blunt's Back to Bedlam.

He has a fabulous voice and a raw talent for writing amazing songs, and he should be a huge star.

Apparently the story of Ray LaMontagne discovery is a bit of a legend. Living in Maine, as a recluse in a log cabin, he underwent a sudden conversion to music. Armed with his guitar, off he travelled to California to make music, he met up with Ethan Johns, the amazing producer behing Kings of Leon and within a matter of months, Trouble was made.

LaMontagne's songs are rewarding and have many layers, there's so many songs I love on this album, but it took a couple of listens to get really into it. It is perfect background music, and doesn't need to be too loud to have an effect, but each time I listen to it, I notice more words, more melodies and it leaves me aching for more. It's on constant loop on my Ipod, as it brings new rewards with each listen.

It is sometimes a rather melancholy album, but deep, rich and immense with wonderful melodies and gentle guitar and complex string and brass sections, with occasional female backing vocals, that just make this album so great.

"Trouble" - the title song is one of my favourites at the moment. But this keeps changing depending on my mood. Its got a real soulful sort of bluesy quality that just gives me goosebumps each time I listen to it.
Having said that "Shelter" makes me feel the same.. its hard not be touched by his voice and gentle melodies.. I just love the whole album!!

His voice makes this album, and in my opinion has a better voice than the likes of James Blunt for example.

If you love music, I defy you to not love this album, it will delight!

I purchased this album on itunes for £7.90. But you can buy the cd from www.play.com for £10.99 inc. P&P or £10.99 from amazon PLUS shipping, unless you qualify for supersaver delivery.