The name Grant Maloy Smith is not attached to any one genre, or for that matter, any specific style. Instead, over the years, Smith sought to create a multitude of different records ranging from the rock ‘n’ roll Big Bowl Of Courage, to the comedic and passionate ballads available from Mr. Sparklepants. His latest work was a shot taken at the roots of Americana, in Yellow Trailer, that despite the somewhat flippant past in some of his older releases, manages to present itself as a thought-provoking production.
Going headlong into the album, the first thing you experience is the pronounced Midwestern drawl ever present in Grant’s voice and the amazing banjo work on “The Boy Who Built The Moon,” a song that is in and of itself a fun and faithful bluegrass tune that sets Yellow Trailer up for success right away.
Smith’s lyrical work is just as impressive from track to track, staying true to folk style storytelling in music while keeping it sounding fresh and enjoyable. The elements of old and new combine so well that fans of country and bluegrass will find it an easily addictive sound, while the small pop seasoning gives it a kick for a more modern taste.
The two best songs on the release are the title-track and the conclusion, “Hold On To Moments.” Both present themselves with the most charisma and personality derived in the songwriting, and possess the vital pieces, including mandolin, fiddle, banjo, slide/resonator and acoustic guitar, in the most subtle of ways.
To Grant, Yellow Trailer was a challenge to get out of his comfort zone and try something brand new that was met with great fervor. Influenced by a combination of modern and veteran artists such as Edward Sharpe And The Magnetic Zeroes, The Lumineers and the late Earl Scruggs, it is a new high point for the artist.
In A Word: Creative
