Train's "California 37" Worth Traveling The Extra Mile For

At this juncture in its career, Train is firing on all cylinders. Not only is there no let up since "Save Me San Francisco" streeted in late 2009 their high-octane act has become even more energized. I personally can't see how any mammal could possibly dislike "Drive By", the lead-off single from the San Franciscans sixth album, "California 37" There's no way for me to wipe the smile off my face, particularly when I stop to reflect on how much fun Patrick Monahan must have had recording it. Rack up as much mileage as you can. Each spot on the trip is refreshing. Like cultural name-dropping which conjures up snapshot memories of Billy Joel's "We Didn't Start The Fire"? "This'll Be My Year" will have you tripping back through key historic points from 1985 up to this year. Admit it. You didn't think you'd hear a Pete Rose reference over a blistering rock stampede did you? Pat gives us glimpses of some key historical points from the post '89 BJ years too. Elton playing at Princess Di's funeral service in '97 and, unavoidably, the Twin Towers catastrophe of 2001. "50 Ways To Say Goodbye" is perfect for those nights where you and either your buds or significant others wish to simulate unwinding in a Mexican cantina, complete with B-movie Latino cinema horns. Frantic pacing that reverberates through Scott Underwood's drum kit as he tries to keep with Pat unloading about he'd like not to be thought of as SuperMinivan anymore. You can hear the wheels of catharsis unspooling. "Bruises' should be welcomed without prejudice by the country rock crowd. Pat and Ashley Monroe swap stories about the winding roads their lives have encompassed. In their eyes and hearts bruises make the dinner conversations juicier. Fun times will be had by all who give "Mermaid" a listen. We find ourselves back in the cultural soup again. This time the photo-worthy Johnny Depp gets his share of time in Train's orbit. The sound waves here seem like they're soundtrack worthy. Mr. Depp would approve of having his professional rep forever linked to this thumpin' adventure yarn. The guitar leaps out at you. Pat's intensity level gets higher and higher as this song progresses. "California 37" is the right route to take if a winning rock experience is the destination you're trying to reach.