"Trapped and Free" is the debut album by roaming singer-songwriter, ROB THOM. Although dividing his time between the UK and Kansas this is definitely a very British-sounding release, with folk-influences running deep.
"Catherine" is a solid start, with the "stock" acoustic guitar bolstered by strings. This is really a blueprint for much of what follows, which is a strength, but also a weakness.
Former single "The View From The Ground" is a highlight, with the socially-aware, topical subject-matter contrasting well with the pleasant melody. The lyrics, centring on last summer's riots in the UK, prove Thom has something to say. There is just a touch of humour in there too, demonstrating Thom's potential as a story-teller.
The third track "I Long To Go Back" has a slightly more up-tempo sound, with gentle drums filling in the sound. To give a lazy but accurate comparison, it reminds this reviewer of Fionn Regan which, is no bad thing.
Current single "Just The Kind Of Thing" (reviewed here on W&H previously) is another highlight, and is probably the most "immediate" track on the album. A very enjoyable track, and one which again shows enormous potential.
From this point on though, it all becomes a bit samey. Not bad by any means, just archetypal of the genre. There are accomplished moments, with the prominent strings on seventh track "Cedar Road", and lyrical content of ninth track. "Life's Too Short" being particular highlights.
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Track 10, "For Five Four" is a bit different, being driven by organ rather than acoustic guitar. Sadly for this reviewer, it does not really work, and is actually the weakest song on the album. The final track "Tom's Kitchen" returns to the usual formula, and like much of the second half of the album, comes and goes with no fanfare.
The first half of the album benefits from strong songs particularly it must be said, the singles "The View From The Ground" and "Just The Kind Of Thing". This pair would seem perfect fair for Thom to be discovered by a wider, mainstream audience. The problem is, the second half of the album does not really hold the listener's attention. It is far from bad; the songs are honest enough, but they are all rather one-paced and start to blend into one another.
This is a promising start though, and Thom is definitely someone to look out for. Go to one of his shows - there are plenty of them coming up.
Rob Thom online
< a href="http://robthom.bandcamp.com">Listen to Rob Thom at Bandcamp
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