Luke Winslow-King Strings Together a Southern Gem on “I’m Glad Trouble Don’t Always Last’

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Artist: Luke Winslow-King

Album: I’m Glad Trouble Don’t Always Last

Score: 7/10

Defining an artist is tricky.  Formulating creative ideas through life stories and into a musical structure is not a simple process.  Therefore, slapping a ‘one size fits all’ label onto an artist is simply unfair.

Luke Winslow-King is not subject to such criticism.  

Winslow-King’s upcoming Bloodshot Records release ‘I’m Glad Trouble Don’t Last Always’ ,which drops September 30th, balances over the tightrope of bluesy rock tunes and smokey serenades while pushing on through the motions of a defeated man’s spirit.

Every track on ‘I’m Glad Trouble Don’t Always Last’ shares a common thread of swampy swing.  From one track to the next, listeners are rewarded with shifts in feeling.  

The title of the record, ‘I’m Glad Trouble Don’t Always Last’ sounds like the final statement you tell yourself before finally making the decision to move forward after tragedy.  This makes sense given the New Orleans native’s recent history consisting of a divorce from fellow folk artist Esther Rose in which he collaborated with numerous times throughout his career.  The track ‘Esther Please’ is a personal plead with former lover Esther Rose and a standout number.  Winslow-King could have searched for mental closure with a record full of leaving ballads but instead, he stood firm in what he knows best and musically turned trouble into harmony.

With a music history as deep as King’s, traces of Americana, Folk, and Blues are displayed majestically throughout.  At times, it’s difficult to detect which influence is more heeding.  Winslow-King blends the beauty of southern grassroots music together with disciplined instrument dexterity.

If you’re a musician looking to hear a genuine expert in his natural habitat or simply a music advocate hoping to hear some solid arrangements, Luke Wilson-King’s latest bundle of songs will serve you well.

The record also features subtle additions of contemporary songwriting;  helping create a more accessible sound. Unfortunately, it’s doubtful we’ll hear any LWK tracks on major radio, however it appears someone with a pop sensibility had some influence on a handful of tracks – delicately sprinkling certain parts with mainstream flavor – just enough to lure a reaction from those unfamiliar with his style.

At times, listeners are sizzled with a John Mayer meets B.B. King sound.  Other times, listeners will hear reminiscing of Muddy Waters crossing with Gary Clark Jr. flows.   From a different perspective, the album could make for an appropriate soundtrack to a Quentin Tarantino film as it posses the necessary soul that could enhance any hallowing Western.

The more I write about the record, the more I want to play it – I’d strongly suggest giving it a listen – you won’t be disappointed.

Stand out tracks:

On My Way.

Change Your Mind.

Esther Please.

No More Crying Today.
You can check out Luke Winslow-King on tour here.

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