No Depression
Very grateful for this incredible review in No Depression.
“Jack Grelle may sound like your typical heartland troubadour, but listen closely and it quickly becomes apparent that there’s more to his music than meets the ear. A subversive songwriter in every sense, his down home demeanor masks the soul and conviction of a principled individual determined to leave some lessons in his wake even when it means contradicting the norm. The title track of his new album is timely to a great degree; in it, Grelle offers an affirmative nod to women who have been suppressed by society, a song Donald Trump ought to be force fed continuously until he learns it’s not right to excuse trash talk as mere locker room banter . His admiration for women is further affirmed on the folksy “Birthday Cards,” which sounds like a tune John Prine could — and should — have once called his own. Still, it’s the twang and charm of “Changes Never Made” that offers the best example of Grelle’s unusual dichotomy. It may sound like a backwoods ramble, but in truth it’s a plea for sympathy for the African American communities who may feel like they’re always under siege. Of course, this isn’t to say Got Dressed Up To Be Let Down is simply an album of barbs and pontification. Grelle’s ability to veer from down home balladry to south of the border interludes, to Cajun revelry and rollicking refrains makes this an album worthy of repeated listens, regardless of the issues addressed. However, if the messages come through the music, it’s all the better besides.”
http://nodepression.com/album-review/jack-grelles-message-music