Nathan Thompson – Solid Ground / 2007 Old G-48 / 13 Tracks / http://www.nathanthompson.com / Reviewed 14 May 2007

“Stubborn” is the first track on “Solid Ground”, and it shows Thompson as an artist that blends together old country, bluegrass, and even a hint of Irish music. This elclectic style does not sound off-putting at all, due to the fact that all of the styles work perfectly together. The presence of a walking bass during “Stubborn” makes this a memory track, and “Solid Ground” a memorable album right from the get go. It is true that “Stubborn” will not be able to crack into the pop markets, but chances are good that Thompson could burn up the NPR charts with eir brand of mature and full-bodied music.

“I Trusted You” is the track that follows up “Stubborn”, and it has a much slower tempo than “Stubborn” achieved. This is good, as it provides individuals with two distinct styles of Thompson’s music. The vocals start on an interesting foot, but rapidly normalize themselves to the rest of the track. The vocal harmonies of Thompson during this track are much more in the fore than during “Stubborn”, which provides another method of comparison for anyone that may be listening in. “It Wasn’t Over” has a much more tropical sound to it than any of the prior tracks on “Solid Ground”. This track seems to be more of an ode to Warren Zevon and Jimmy Buffet than anything else; the same solid vocal harmonies and ever-present bass provide individuals with a sense of familiarity.

The fact that this track was cut in 2007 will shock some listeners, as there are so many nods to the music and the styles of the seventies that most, if not all listening in, will be shocked. Nathan Thompson is one of the few artists that I can come up with off of the top of my head that can have thirteen tracks on a disc and actually not have it sound like the album is dragging on in the slightest. The amazing thing about the compositions on “Solid Ground” is that they sound so mature and fully-fleshed out, which is miraculous given that this is Thompson’s first album. There may be minor issues (like the aforementioned timing issues) present, but these are the most minor of annoyances. Get this album if you are a fan of seventies pop music or if you want something calm, cool, and collected for your house, car, or bath. Pick it up.

Top Tracks: Whiskey, Look Away

Rating: 6.4/10

[JMcQ]