"I bought BLUES TRAVELER back in the summer of '92 after a friend of mine had me listen to it well kicking back with a few beers. Right off the bat, I was hooked listening to the way John Popper just blew everyone away with his harmonica playing on BUT ANYWAY. That is a killer song that kicks the album off. Out of the 11 songs on the album, the one that just left me kind of wanting was GOTTA GET MEAN. It is not a bad song, it just doesnt measure up with the others so thats the 1 star deduction is for. The song that really stands out here is CRYSTAL FLAME. It is a 9 1/2 min classic rock epic that should be put on a mantel like the other epics like STAIRWAY TO HEAVEN OR FREEBIRD. I think that this album is a good introduction to the band for a new fan or for someone who only knows them by RUNAROUND. Go Out and buy this album know"
Just Might Be Their Best
G. J Wiener | Westchester, NY USA | 11/12/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Blues Traveler certainly became more mainstream with the Four release with smash singles Hook and Runaround. And Four is certainly a fine record. However, the debut release just might be the best. The band is raw and honest sounding with many spunky and funky jams. The single, But Anyway may have a catchy structure but the fine guitar and harmonica solos just keep my attention. The streak of great songs just continues. The rapping and catchy lyrics of Mulling It Over makes me chuckle. John Popper is sure thoughtful with his lyrics. 100 Years is a pleasant ballad and Warmer Days is a fine blues number featuring Joan Osbourne on background vocals. And Alone is so captivating with its shifts from slow to fast.Truthfully there isn't a dull moment on this release. If you were HOOKED on Blues Traveler because of their radio friendly hits, you certainly owe it to yourself to explore the roots of this excellent band."
The best live studio album ever!
Sor_Fingers | Boulder, CO USA | 12/25/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Blues Traveler could have called this album "Live from the Studio." That's how much energy there is on this album. The only thing missing is screaming and applause from thousands of fans. With their debut album, Blues Traveler has successfully captured the energy and thrust of a live performance. The excitement of the musicians on this album is outstanding. John Popper's harmonica work is extraordinary. The ensemble is tight and always playing together collaboratively. The other members are always playing off of the soloist. This album is outstanding. If it doesn't get at least get your foot tapping, (If not dancing about with abandon) I'm not sure that anything else could."
The Best
Sor_Fingers | 10/21/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Easily the best Blues Traveler album. They have soul and depth on this their first album that is lost as they produce more albums. If you are a fan of BT because of their songs on the radio, you may find this not to your liking as it is not TOP 40-mass appeal slop."