Same Time, Same Place, Same Station
Self-Released, 2020
8/10
Listen to Same Time, Same Place, Same Station
Although this is Virginia country rocker Steven Bruce’s debut album, you sure wouldn’t know it from his strong delivery and timeless song craft. Though Bruce cut his teeth in the outfit Whiskey Revival, the veteran musician’s solo career was trigged after his divorce and the death of his grandparents, whose musical interests were what sparked Bruce’s initial interest in music.
Not so surprisingly, this first album carries themes of loss and heartbreak, as “Cryin’ Eyes” starts the listen with Bruce’s raw vocals alongside soothing country inspired sounds with plenty of organic instrumentation, and “Rhinestoned” continues the setting with a more forceful yet highly tuneful display of classic country ideas.
Further along, “Weekend Song” isn’t short on melody as the driving rural rocker makes an immediate impression with incredible riffs, while “Breathe” moves with much beauty yet still some grit in the ballad-ish atmosphere that recruits warm keys. Although there isn’t a bad tune to be found here, “Long Haul” is especially noteworthy with its aching pedal steel and emotive execution.
Close to the end, “Keeping Time” offers a lush display of moody, careful musicianship, and “Tommy”, the bonus track, makes great use of harmonica amid a playful approach as Bruce’s inimitable pipes exit the listen flawlessly.
A fine effort that takes some of the best moments of names like Parsons, Petty and Jennings, Bruce’s rootsy, country and honky tonk approach is off to an excellent start with Same Time, Same Place, Same Station.
Travels well with: Cory Branan- Adios; Corb Lund- Agricultural Tragic