Search - Tim O'Brien :: Traveler

Nice eclectic material inspired by O'Brien's many journeys

J. Ross | Roseburg, OR USA | 09/05/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Playing Time - 49:46 -- Tim O'Brien has done some traveling in his days, and this album contains a nice collection of eclectic material inspired by his many journeys. Originally from West Virginia, O'Brien now calls Nashville his home. Along the way, he's picked with The Hutchinson Brothers, The Ophelia String Band, Hot Rize (1979-1990), his own group The O'Boys, in a duo with his sister Mollie, The Flattheads, and New Grange. This solo album, with many excellent accompanists, has a couple key strengths besides O'Brien's mandolin, guitar, bouzouki and singing.I've always been a big fan of O'Brien's eclectic and unique Americana sound that incorporates elements of bluegrass, folk, old-time, country and Cajun music. He once described his musical style as "weirdcountry, electro-acoustic, folk-beat, walkin-the-line between-several-genres acoustic music that rocks a bit, but you understand the words." On this project, the tasteful flavorings of Dirk Powell's accordion and Ray Bonneville's harmonica provide an especially nice coloring. Other standout and noteworthy instrumental work comes from Casey Driessen (fiddle), Bela Fleck (banjo on "Another Day"), Jerry Douglas (lap steel or resophonic guitar on two cuts). Percussionist Kenny Malone and bassist Dirk Powell are also rock solid in laying down a rhythmic groove throughout.O'Brien, the singer/songwriter, contributed or collaborated on eleven of the twelve songs on Traveler. Only "I've Endured" (by David Arthur Reed and Ola Belle Reed) is a cover. His songsmith collaborators include Lucas Reynolds ("Turn the Page Again"), Darrell Scott ("Another Day"), Ray Bonneville ("Forty-Nine Keep on Talkin'"), Allesandro Massa ("Travelers"). O'Brien's partnership with Darrell Scott has been fruitful during recent years, and in 2000, they toured and released an instrumental Grammy-nominated album, "The Second Mouse." With recorded hits by Kathy Mattea, Hal Ketchum, Garth Brooks and others, it's clear that this artist follows a strong and inspirational lyrical and melodic muse. All lyrics are included in the CD's jacket. Read 'em, pay attention to 'em, because O'Brien's got some profound things to say. As he sings, "we are but travelers on a road without end," let's hope that he'll find those signs that he is searching for. (Joe Ross, staff writer, Bluegrass Now)"

A Gem From Start to Finish

Andrew Williams | Grafton, MA USA | 10/27/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I rarely write reviews because albums these days are rarely worthy of the effort. Tim O'Brien is the exception and Traveler's epitomizes this. Tim obviously takes great pride in producing an entire album - one that plays beautifully from start to finish. This album does not have a bad song, not a single one. His beautiful voice resonates through each and every tune. I love bluegrass but often get turned off by the traditional twangyness of the vocals. Tim's massaging voice and acoustic melody is what could and should bring bluegrass to the masses. This is bluegrass that anyone would appreciates musical talent will adore.This album is like a gem of a traditional golf course. Each hole is a journey in and of itself. The entire 18 hole experience from start to finish is the journey. There is not one postcard picture signature hole and a bunch of crap everywhere else. It opens with a "hand shake" of what to expect and delivers the rest of the way. Sure, there are parts that are especially memorable but they may be different for everyone and don't distract from the overall experience.Regarding Traveler's, "I've Endured" and "Family Ties" are amazing and stand out for me as truly exceptional songs that are even stronger in context of the entire experience of listening to the album in its' entirety. I could put be these two songs on a mix and be certain all types would adore.Anyone who loves bluegrass or who likes certain aspects of bluegrass will love this album. Rest assured, this album will be your "go to" when relaxing, working, road tripping, entertaining friends, and to lift your spirits with every spin.Get this album, you will not be disappointed!"

We Are But Travelers

Kevin L. Nenstiel | Kearney, Nebraska | 01/07/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The advance singles from this album, "Less and Less" and "Kelly Joe's Shoes," are a fair representation of what this album consists of. The theme of the disc is summed up succinctly in the title: songs of rootlessness and the struggle to be who you are, not what you own or where you live.



Comprised almost entirely of original O'Brien compositions, this disc doesn't stick strictly to traditional bluegrass. It weaves in other styles, like jazz and pop, the way Garcia/Grisman did so deftly back in the day. Some songs, like "Restless Spirit Wandering" and "Travelers," are downbeat and contemplative, while others, like "Forty-Nine Keep on Talkin'" and "I've Endured," are bouncy and danceable without giving up depth of content.



Tim O'Brien is one of the great underappreciated stylists of any music today, bar none. And this album extends his body of work into the Twenty-First Century with a straight-ahead hook that promises more good to come from the artist in the near future. A must for O'Brien fans and bluegrass lovers, passionately recommended for fans of good music of any kind."