Broke In Two
Grant Central, 2019
8/10
The quartet Grant Farm, spearheaded by Tyler Grant, have found a very unique place to reside somewhere between country, rock’n’roll, bluegrass and folk music. Now with keyboardist/singer Kevin McHugh added to their esteemed line up, Broke In Two has the outfit at a career high with inimitable songwriting prowess on this lengthy and detailed 5th album.
“Morning Train” starts the listen with playful gospel feelings and jam band stylings, and “The Golden Charioteer” follows with a dreamy, psyche-rock setting. “Arjuna The Believer” then brings us to quick paced Americana shuffling, while “Forward On” unfolds with lush, retro-rock that’s impossible not to enjoy.
The second half excels with the rhythmic atmosphere of “Nester”, the howling, bluesy guitars of “Love And Pain”, where crashing percussion and solos invade the tune, and the soft, folky keys of “Tumbleweed”, as spirited guitar licks really complement the affair. The album ends on the organ fun of “Broke in Two”, where melodic vocals and a hazy setting span 10 minutes of dynamic interplay between the 4 artists, who all bring their respective talents to the exit.
Forging a sound sometimes referred to as ‘Cosmic Americana’, Grant Farm’s arsenal of sounds keeps the listener constantly surprised and awed by their seemingly endless ideas and boundless talent. If you haven’t joined the ‘farmily’ of admirers yet, Broke in Two would be a fine introduction.
Travels well with: Ryan Adams & The Cardinals- Cold Roses; The Grateful Dead- American Beauty