The Legendary Trainhoppers “Ramble On” (Monkey Wings Records 2006)

Legends in their hometown move onto the bigger stage

This is a supergroup of sorts - if you happen to live in Fort Wayne, they’re just about as super as it gets; they compare themselves to Golden Smog, Highwaymen and the Travelling Wilburys, and you know what, they almost pull it off. The opening ‘I’m Not Waiting’ is a rollicking country-pop confection worthy of the Jayhawks at their best, ‘Cannonball’ shoots out with the spirit of Waylon giving it forward momentum and keeps on going without a safety net towards the field marked ‘Rock’. The inspirational ‘The Banks of the Cumberland’ sits proudly at the centre of the record, linking back to the roots of country music stirred by Matt Kelley - uncovering photos of his grandfather and his history as both trainhopper and songwriter, the song mixes two-part harmony an exuberant mandolin and four-square rock playing. Bang up to date is the rock of ‘All That Lonely’ which is thick with classic rock; it puts the Feeling to shame, the refrain threatens to get bombastic, and the harmonies meringue sweet. I’m reminded of great lost pop bands like the Shoes and the Last. They try to resurrect 60’s pop with ‘Let’s Be Friends’ and make a good job of it. Only problem is that for every decent track there is one that doesn’t quite cut it, but nevertheless it is a decent effort: Fort Wayne can be proud.

Date review added:  Thursday, June 08, 2006
Reviewer:  David Cowling
Reviewers Rating:
Related web link:  Band Website