Slowtrain

Bound To Find You Out

The 1970s roots revival in Austin continues apace with the debut LP from local quartet Slowtrain. Following the likes of Deadman, Uncle Lucius, the Happen-Ins, and the Band of Heathens, Slowtrain rolls best with a full head of steam, like the hard-pounded, harmonica-ripped blues-tumble of the title track or the Harry Nilsson piano pop flourishes of “Not the Only One.” Much of the rest of Bound To Find You Out rests too heavily on frontman Adoniram Lipton’s efforts, a calm nasal grit splitting the difference between Dylan and the more contemporary influence of Jeff Tweedy. The two versions of “Waiting Just for You” that close both sides prove effective but highlight the band’s competing impulses – the first playing straightforward with Lipton’s vocals pushed up front, with the reprise lacing organ and piano into a Before the Flood flair. A solid debut only wanting more from the rest of the band.

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This article appears in May 13 • 2011.

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Doug Freeman has been writing for the Austin Chronicle since 2007, covering the arts and music scene in the city. He is originally from Virginia and earned his Masters Degree from the University of Texas. He is also co-editor of The Austin Chronicle Music Anthology, published by UT Press.