Customer Reviews

Moontraveler

5 star:		(6)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Having been a lover of all things Poor Old Lu, I did not expect to be disappointed when I bought Aaron Sprinkle's first solo album, Moontraveller, and truly I was not. The former POL guitarist made a distinct departure from the early-90's alternative sound of his old band and forged an album that is full of songs that speak to the more sensitive side of humanity. Finding his foundation in rootsy acoustic folk tinged with modern rock tinges, the music sounds like early Bob Dylan meets the Choir. Lyrically, the songs find their own unique form of expression by communicating a sense of deep and meloncholy longing. The opening "Solace" speaks of lost relationship with God, and the yearning and confusion that follow. "Mae," "A Friend I Had," and "What Sorry Could Be," continue in the vein of moody longing, while the closers, "A Step Ahead," and "Motor Cars," bring the hope to the album, reminding us that God pursues and brings us home. The music is tightly crafted and the songs deftly written and I just can't seem to keep this gem of a cd out of my cd player. It's a shame that this album won't get more exposure, but I would recommend it to anyone.

I was a huge fan of both Poor Old Lu and Rose Blossom Punch, two bands Aaron Sprinkle used to be a member of. Both bands showcased his excellent, restrained guitar work, and his obvious knack for songwriting. And while I was sad to hear that RBP called it quits, I couldn't wait to hear Aaron's solo album. I had to bend over backwards to find it, but I've got it and I just want to say: so far, this is definitely one of the year's best albums!! The songs definitely fit the title, as each one feels pulled around the gravity of simple, catchy acoustic guitar work from Aaron. And as "one-note" as a mostly acoustic album can sound, this one defies the trend with unique arrangements and soundscapes. There's the straight-ahead "Solace," vaguely reminiscent of early POL, the near-techno "Antennae's Wife," the painful "A Friend I Had," "Mae," a retro-spacey song that reminds me of RBP, and the totally catchy, euphonium(?)-fronted "A Step Ahead," not to mention five great others. It's sad to think that this CD will probably never get the attention it deserves, especially from the mainstream market. If Aaron were supported by greater distribution, I imagine this record would be topping year-end lists everywhere. It's a trippy, alternafolk album that manages to sound totally original, and I recommend it to anyone that appreciates thoughtful, well-crafted music.

A former member of now-defunct bands Poor Old Lu and Rose Blossom Punch, this is Aaron's first solo album. With artful arrangements and honest, introspective lyrics, the songs on Moontraveler make you want to close your eyes and just melt into the music. Every word and note is so beautifully expressed. Aaron's melodic voice hovers over a textured blend of guitar combined with skillful and inspired songwriting. Tunes like the mellow, rhythmic "A Friend I Had" are comforting and simple, while the catchy riffs of "Antennae's Wife" will be swirling around in your head for days. This is an amazing album by an incredibly talented artist.

When I first put "Moontraveler" in my cd player, I thought it was good. When I listened to it again, I thought it was great. Now I think it's probably one of the best albums I've ever heard. The songs are mellow, but with just enough of an edge. Aaron's vocals have never been better, and he has proven himself to be a brilliant songwriter. You must own this cd.

Moontraveler is a solid debut album that deserves at least three stars. The songwriting can get a little confusing when it comes to trying to understand where Aaron is coming from on a couple of the songs. He still manages to come across with a honest sound though. If you are a big Aaron Sprinkle fan then you will most likely enjoy this album, but if you are not then you might want to just get his most recent release "Bareface."

This album is simply one of my favorites. Aaron really delivers on this album; not just through the masterful guitar playing, but through the strong vocals. Every song on the disc is solid, and they range in mood from upbeat and happy to somber and sad. But this is truly an awesome album and you will be satisfied if you hear it.

Since I bought this CD it has quickly become my favorite. I don't know how many times I've listened to it and it doesn't get old. It's nice to know that Aaron is a Christian so I'm not filling my brain with junk, if you know what I mean. The songs have a really artistic flair which keeps me interested while I'm listening.