Hard Times
Self-Released, 2021
8/10
A Texas heartland rocker with a strong storytelling ability, the aptly titled Hard Times from Keeton Coffman presents us with 10 tracks that were often penned when his bipolar and OCD diagnoses were at their peak.
Coffman starts the listen with the breezy and melodic, acoustic guitar fueled “Midland”, where his smooth yet gritty vocals are met with flowing rural rock, and “Wounded Heart” follows with a soaring and swift display of emotive and bright Americana influenced ideas.
At the midpoint, “Rumors” enter balladry, where much cautious beauty builds into a piano friendly, ebullient landscape, while “Rivertown” moves swiftly, amid soulful keys, thumping drums and fluid guitar work.
Approaching the end, “Hurricane” mixes a rugged roots climate with Coffman’s strong pipes being complemented by firm piano, and “Back Roads” exits the listen with a pretty duet, where dreamy guitar and charming intimacy make for a finish that comes much too soon.
It’s hard not to think of names like Springsteen and Mellencamp when listening to Hard Times, which could never be a bad thing, as the former gymnast sets himself up for a remarkable solo career with his heartfelt, memorable and timeless song craft.
Travels well with: Trapper Schoepp- May Day; Steve Marriner- Hope Dies Last