[Heeplist] No trouble with Trouble

[Bob Winward]

Yesterday was a federal holiday in the US and no mail.  I could wait no
longer after seeing Dave S mention that it was available on Amazon.  So I
did  a download and have listened about 5x though so far.  I read all of the
reviews on the list.  I know a couple folk like it, Tap did a nice song by
song breakdown, another liked it but not the silly lyrics and use of the F
word. Then there were some very negative reviews.  Therefore, my
expectations for this recording were low,  I was expecting the worst!

I must say hearing the cd first time through, I was ecstatic  it is lively,
up-tempo and strong throughout, absolutely no filler.  To me, Ken has put it
altogether with songwriting, great band, great music that has the strong
Heep influenced sound that we have been clamoring for, for years!!  He
finally broke through and took it to the next level.   Lots of Hammond (the
keys that first attracted me to Heep)  Sometimes the Hammond is out-front in
the mix and dominating, other times it is in background, but there is plenty
of it.  Swirling music that is lively and upbeat, heep sounding guitar and
strong melodies.  Yes I do hear the past and there is recycling, but how
many notes and chords are there anyway?  It is a limited medium as it is,
but he finds a way to maximize the sound.

I did not get an impression of darkness or that anything is wrong.  It is a
concept album and when the cd finally does arrive via snail mail I will be
able to pick up on the theme.  There is some religious overtones with the
lyrics and  I think that may scare some who are not of similar beliefs to
Ken and that is all I will say on that. I am not really sure how the F word
fits in on Trouble, not until I see the rest of the lyrics.

I think another problem with interpretation of the cd, is that there are
many here while skilled in the English language, it is not their native
tongue so maybe there is some misunderstandings of the lyrics.  I am also
wondering if some understood the puns and word play I have been using on the
word Trouble?  You can tell I am having fun with it, lol.   I am perplexed
how some are down on this cd, whilst I think it is Ken¹s most outstanding
work to date.

A wise man once told me, believe none of what you hear and half of what you
see.  I say this is a great recording and am happy I am getting to hear it.
Judge for yourselves, but in my opinion, true Heep/Hensley loving fans will
also enjoy!