The Classic Metal Album Reviews:
Title: Trouble
Artist: Trouble
Label: Def American
Release Date: 1990

Rating: 3 Skulls
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    • Reviewed by Solomon:
    Professor of Metal, Martin Popoff, author of "The Collector's Guide To Heavy Metal," gives Trouble and Kyuss the lion's share of credit for shaping the stoner/doom rock movements (see his review of Trouble at www.martinpopoff.com). You know, the term "doom" doesn't quite do this record justice. Sure, Trouble are well-known for their Sabbath-erian tactics, but the band's self-titled effort is a little too happy and thoughtful to get such a downer of a label. This is especially true after listening to tons of Solitude Aeturnus for last several weeks and letting that band's sonic despair wash over you. No, there's a little spring in Trouble's step on Trouble, but it still has that riffy, bluesy, down-tuned plod that can only be honed from the school of Iommi. That's partly what makes this record special: it's heavy, but there's enough melodicism and bounciness to keep you off the Prozac.

    I found the first half of the record to be more appealing than the second, although track nine, "E.N.D.," features a yummy opening spitfire riff and melancholic interlude (1:06). Album opener "At The End Of My Daze" is a kick. "Psychotic Reaction" is one of the darker tracks and has one of the best guitar riffs on the record. Popoff calls "A Sinner's Fame" a "sort of low point on the album" and "somewhat of a bluesy clunker." Damn, that's really wrong, 'cause that baby is really the highlight. The odd structure and pacing of the guitar riff is pretty original as far as riffs go and gives the song a leaden but upbeat edge. I found myself getting a little bored as the album progressed, particularly with "The Misery Shows," which is nice as a Beatles/Pink Floyd ballad, but it goes on for a few minutes too long. Of course, Eric Wagner's voice is great, taking cues from Ozzy but giving it that unmistakable rasp that is one of a kind. Everybody should listen to some Trouble here and there, although I might suggest The Skull for those who are looking for a bit more gloom in their doom.
    3 out of 5

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