Tom Russell Poor Man's Dream Genres:Folk, Pop These songs offer Tom Russell's acute and often poetic observations on the lives of ordinary and extraordinary people the world over, laced with convincing little real-life details, backed by one of the toughest roots-rock... more » bands you'll ever hear. Russell's popular among his fellow songwriters, too: co-writers on this album include Nanci Griffith, Ian Tyson, Dan Zanes (of the Del Fuegos) and Katy Moffatt.« less
These songs offer Tom Russell's acute and often poetic observations on the lives of ordinary and extraordinary people the world over, laced with convincing little real-life details, backed by one of the toughest roots-rock bands you'll ever hear. Russell's popular among his fellow songwriters, too: co-writers on this album include Nanci Griffith, Ian Tyson, Dan Zanes (of the Del Fuegos) and Katy Moffatt.
jgoodr1631@aol.com | Worcester, MA USA | 08/23/1998
(5 out of 5 stars)
"If you are tired of the cookie cutter, assembly line garbage that passes for country music these days, then pick up this CD for a refreshing change. if you are looking for a singer who makes you sit up and pay attention to the lyrics, then this album is a must have. The songs run the gamut emotionally. From tear jerkers such as Blue Wing and Veteran's Day, to foot stomping tunes like Gallo del Cielo this album covers all the bases."
This One's For The Ages!
tgfabthunderbird | York, PA United States | 01/05/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I remember working for a country station back in 90-91 south of Boston...we played a fair amount of folkish, traditional country along with the usual stuff (something that'd never be permitted in commercial radio today). Russell was a respected writer by us all, and this album captivated me, then and now.
We played the opener, "Blue Wing" for some time, but our efforts didn't make it any more than a local fave. The CD was not in fact available except by an 800 number. I found my copy in a used shop (sorry, Tom).
But this recording has been one of the few that I play a lot...and I mean a lot! Great songs, some of which went on to better things by others like "Navajo Rug" (Jerry Jeff Walker, though I prefer this one) and "Outbound Plane" (which Suzy Bogguss made a hit out of).
"The Heart of a Working Man" is one of the better anthems to the workers, since "Take This Job and Shove It." "Bergenfield" examines a series of teenage suicides, and "Northern Towns" looks at a tough, uncompromising Northern Canada and a working class man trying to make it through.
"Veterans Day" is one of the best tributes to vets, "Under The Gun" and "Walking On The Moon" two other great songs.
I play this thing to death--Russell remains one of my favorite songwriters, and his gritty voice lends honesty to the work.
Find it, get it, and love it!"
Listener's Are Richer for Russell's "Poor Man's Dream"
Joseph K. Monahan | Chicago, IL USA | 11/22/1999
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Tom Russell's "Poor Man's Dream" was my introduction to the artist several years ago and it remains one of my all-time favorite records. A gifted artist hitting his peak. Personal favorites include "Veteran's Day","Spanish Burgundy", and "Blue Wing". Fans who have since become fans of later albums will enjoy hearing these with the backing of a gifted band. A great intoduction to Russell and a must for die hards."
Classic
Heather F | Calgary | 12/08/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Tom Russell's Poor mans dream is an outstanding album. I could name favourite songs off it but i'd just be naming the whole album. no one can hear this and not have a few heart strings tugged at. A mix of amazing lyrics and harmonic melodies make this one of the best ever recorded."