Customer Reviews

Couples in Trouble

5 star:		(8)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

"Couples in Trouble" represents a quantum leap in the development of Robbie Fulks, placing him squarely among the greatest living American songwriters in any genre. This album is a long way from the smart-alecky humor of "Country Love Songs" or "South Mouth," but it's hard to see how any listener could fail to be impressed with "Couples in Trouble." All of the songs are sensational, and they come in a bewildering range of styles--from the traditional Appalachian sound of "In Bristol Town One Fine Day" to the mordant jazz of "Anything for Love," from the dark cabaret of "My Tormentor" to the sweet bounciness of "Mad at a Girl." Fulks' wit is still there, but far more mixed with tenderness and worldly wisdom than in his previous work. I don't know about you, but personally, I will buy any CD Robbie Fulks puts his name on from this day forward. I will be delighted to hear anything--and everything--he does next.

Much like the majority of 90's young "no depression" acts, Robbie Fulks has dropped much of his country aesthetic in favor of cleaner pop production. But unlike Wilco and Whiskeytown, Fulks' switch truly feels like a logical transition. The addition of power pop, lounge jazz, and string quartets to his updated honky-tonk only strenghtens his songwriting, making the music even more his own. The songs themselves are intriguing tales of lost loves and bad situations. Not really new ground for a honky-tonk singer, but Fulks' excellent lyrical craftsmanship avoids treading thematic water. One initial complaint is that without his usual country twang, Robbie's airy voice can wear thin. Over time however, this reveals itself as a useful tool. His waifish croon keeps utterly bleak songs like "Brenda's New Stepfather" from seeming downright repulsive, subtley covering ground that would seem far too disturbingly real if tackled by a voice like Tom Waits or Johnny Cash. The end product is a song-essay piece every bit as powerful and timeless as Randy Newman's "Good Old Boys" or Frank Sinatra's "In the Wee Small Hours".

I think that Robbie really hit the nail on the head with this one. Although his previous albums are all good - this one is the best. I don't normally find theme records appealing, but Robbie wrote some very well crafted songs here and the album flows real well. Although the lyrics do fit a theme, the music (which is some of the best Fulks has created) covers a wide variety of genres. From the Appalachian folk sound of "In Bristol Town" to the shimmering pop sound of "Mad at a Girl" Fulks generates beautiful tunes to accompany well written lyrics. While some might want to bathe after listening to "Brenda's New Stepfather" one cannot deny the emotion of the lyrics and the percussive melody. Each song will take you on a journey of some sort and that is what great music is all about.

"Couples in Trouble" is breathtaking. By far his best and most consistent effort. All 12 of the songs are very listenable; it only takes a few trips through the cd for your ears to be hooked. But then, take a little time to really *listen* to the stories he's telling--and you will be blown away by the raw, naked, vulnerable, self-exposed lyrics. Check this one out folks, you won't be disappointed.

"Couples in Trouble" is breathtaking. By far his best and most consistent effort. All 12 of the songs are very listenable; it only takes a few trips through the cd for your ears to be hooked. But then, take a little time to really *listen* to the stories he's telling--and you will be blown away by the raw, naked, vulnerable, self-exposed lyrics. Check this one out folks, you won't be disappointed.

This record was not what I expected. I was a little disappointed at first as it seemed to lack the high-flying alt-country stuff I appreciated about his music. Also, Fulks' sense of humor is not nearly as up front as in his earlier disks. However, having re-listened to the disk and read the lyrics, I can honestly say it has become my favorite Fulks disk! He continues to grow, and this work embodies that journey in a very satisfying way! Just listen to "She Needs You Now"....

Chicago resident, known for his sardonic sense of humor in alternative country music, Robbie Fulks aims for the stars on 2001's Couples in Trouble, an album that departs from his normal style. Fulks' high tenor cries out on the opening troubadour ballad "In Bristol Town One Bright Day" plays like an old country vinyl record from the depression era. The arrangements wander from track to track but like the album's title suggests, the overall theme of misery in relationships prevails. Completely written and produced by Fulks, Couples in Trouble is a fine achievement in songwriting.

Anyone who has seen RF live isn't surprised by the depth, range, and beauty of this album. In fact, there will be some who will go on and on about some cosmic artistic transformation. (Deborah Gibson...now there's a transformation) Couples in Trouble is a terrific album, as is each one of Robbie's previous releases. Why? Because Robbie crafts songs, not styles. He also is an outstanding musician and arranger. Here is where he is often stylistically pigeonholed. Buy the albums, go see him live. Laugh at his sardonic wit. Sing along and smile.

This album is what I've been waiting for from Mr. Fulks. I knew he had it in him. No novelties this time- I have to say I kind of like the novelties by themselves, but sometimes they ruin the overall feel of the album. This is a mature release- now what exactly does that mean? It means different things to different people, so I will define it as- meticulous attention paid to every detail. The arrangements are awe-inspiring. The performances are top-notch, and I don't think Mr. Fulks' voice has ever sounded as confident and pure. I could list my thoughts of the songs one by one in order, but I could never do each of them justice. Country, kind of... but country in a good way, not a Nashville way. I think the biggest crime of this year will be that "Mad At A Girl" doesn't become a huge hit propelling Mr. Fulks into the limelight.

well that's not true - sure its really robbie. But, if you got turned on to robbie by any of his cds before or after this one's release then i want to stress - don't believe the hype of the other reviews. Its like owning the first 4 elvis costello albums and having somebody tell you again and again that imperial bedroom (ballroom?) is where its at. artists branching out? well this is obviously a lil detour. I love Robbie but this ain't my Robbie. I'd say that this rf is easier for me to agree with than ec and imp bed/ball but still I'LL LISTEN TO THIS LESS THAN ANY OTHER ROBBIE FULKS CD.