This Train Keeps A'Rollin'3 Out Of 5 Stars
Picking up where "Highway 37" left off, Train keep up their winning streak with "Bulletproof Picasso." Pleasing pop rock, a variety of styles and Pat Monahan's easy on the ears voice. From a far back place, he cries out "hey baby" on the opening "Cadillac Cadillac," like he's vying for your attention, and he keeps it for the album's 12 songs. They also keep the harmonies intact, especially the opening to "Angel In Blue Jeans," which is downright soulful.
There's even some toying with country western, as the typical country topic "I'm Drinking Tonight" finds him pining for a lost love. What's the way out? "The only thing stronger than you is whiskey...poison's the cure." Reminded me a little of Chris Isaak's high lonesome, just without the falsetto. Speaking of falsettos, Pat gives his some running room on "Give It All," which veers in the direction of Maroon 5. There's plenty of romance and life lessons to go around, especially on the make up song "Baby, Happy Birthday," where a chastened Pat sings his heart out for forgiveness. Or the sweet acoustic "Don't Grow Up So Fast," this time sung as a reminder of parenthood to keep the growing years precious in your hearts.
Still, there's lots of playful and catchy material here. The bubbly duet with Marsha Ambrosius, Wonder What You're Doing For The Rest Of Your Life" even has the band in giggles at the start. While I think "Highway 37" has the edge as the better album, "Bulletproof Picasso" mines the veins from party to pathos and keeps the Train comeback ride alive.
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