Album Review: Rob Baird Pens A Musical Open Letter To Loneliness
To me, music becomes art when it is based in soul. Rob Baird’s newest album Wrong Side Of The River (WSOTR) is art. The 10 track LP is 100% a record based on where he is and wants to be in life. It is an album for every human being that understands the pains and joys of being vulnerable.
The biggest question we all face in life is “Where do I belong?” Not many want to face this question and especially dedicate an album to it. Hence, Baird’s newest record feels like your own heart is speaking to you. He taps into the mass human sentiments of confusion, loneliness, depression, and resilience. The album is both a scary and courageous effort from the country-blues star, whom took four years of soul-searching to create this masterpiece.
Blues is a powerful genre because it dedicates itself to being open. As you hear the quiet melodies and soft strumming of the guitar throughout WSOTR, you allow yourself to feel comfortable with the uncomfortable. Suddenly, loneliness is not so isolating because Baird has felt it. Maybe, personal sadness is not uncommon because Baird has felt it. Truthfully, hope is alive because Baird is playing it. The album is brilliant in that it makes you feel less lonely at being alone or less hard on yourself for being dissatisfied with where you currently are in life. The album makes you personally connected with Baird, which makes it a must for anyone who thinks they are an outcast for feeling lost, at times, in the world. You are not an outcast, you are human, and Baird’s album reminds us of that. Moreover, his voice is filled with depth. That may sound like a strange term to use when describing someone’s vocal chords, but, when you hear the album, he sings too richly to be described in another way. The wisdom he offers in his words combined with the emotiveness of his voice, makes you feel like literal gold is singing to you.
Favorite Tracks:
“Ain’t Nobody Got A Hold On Me:” a dangerous hook that would empower anyone to free themselves from another’s hold. The way Baird strums the guitar makes it sound like an encouraging friend saying: STAND UP FOR YOURSELF! Plus, Baird’s voice has a sultry drawl that ironically chains you to this track.
“Wrong Side Of The River:” this is the title track for a reason, and the perfect summation of what it is to seek personal redemption. For Baird, redemption is not simply about whether you have done wrong for yourself, but if you have done right by yourself. The in and out of drums gives the song a unique rush and calm effect, which is perfect for its theme.
“Run Of Good Luck:” This song taps into the human feeling of dissatisfaction. Those moments in your life where you feel like life is blocking your way rather than paving it. Baird oozes heart and wisdom as his voice is as potent as anyone’s thoughts of internal disappointment. This simple track will especially make you fall for Baird’s bluesy, country sound.
“Horses:” a beautiful, ethereal song that can make you feel like you are alone in Heaven. Another quieter track, the song relies on vivid lyrics and soft instrumentals to make you both hear and see Baird’s vision.
Wrong Side of The River will be released on May, 13. I suggest anyone seeking hope and a way to get through the sad of this world: buy it! Here is Rob Baird’s official website. Congrats on making an album that is not just about listening to music but feeling it, as well.
