Grant Lee Buffalo toured with big name admirers Pearl Jam and R.E.M., but they haven't yet racked up the sales figures to match their critical endorsements. Third album, Copperopolis, could follow the same path of being critically praised but not a big seller. Grant Lee Buffalo remains true to its principles while the CD buyer walks out of the shop with the latest Hootie disc.
For the unacquainted, Grant Lee Buffalo is a trio (that sounds bigger) whose emphasis is on Dylanesque lyrics. Every song tells a story in lyrics that can require several listenings. On Copperopolis topics for the socially conscious listener include the growing U.S. militia movement ("Homespun"), the cost of sustaining convictions in the face of the opposition ("Even the Oxen"), and brutal response to disturbances ("Crackdown"). Another track deals with the anxiety of living today ("Comes to Blows"), the fear of earthquakes in L.A. ("Hyperion and Sunset"); well, you get the idea. The band continues with their brand of introspective folk rock that perfectly supports these songs.
The question of whether there is a large audience for this kind of moody album remains to be answered. Grant Lee Buffalo seems to have found its niche, however popular or unpopular, and seem unlikely to throw away principles to boost record sales. If you're already a Grant Lee Buffalo fan, Copperopolis is a must have. The band has grown and developed a deeper, more intense style. Also fans of folk rock reaching way back to early Dylan should try this one. If you aren't an ardent fan of the band or folk rock, you might be surprised at what kind of new music you might like. This is an album you'll need to spend some time with. Lyrics are included for assistance, but some thought is required for the meanings. So, the socially conscious, more intellectual listener should give Copperoplis a try. These guys are quite good. Would Pearl Jam and R.E.M steer you wrong?
