JOHN MELLENCAMP
Freedom's Road
Universal Republic 2007
www.mellencamp.com

What’s the 4-1-1?
John Mellencamp releases his first new studio album since 2001’s Cuttin' Heads.

Genre
Southern pop-rock

The Good
Acoustic guitars, sounds of the south, and that southern drawl could only mean one thing; John Mellencamp has more stories to tell. He tells an optimistic tale of social harmony on the open track “Someday.” “Ghost Towns Along the Highway” moves along at a steady pace as John laments about places that were once proud that are now abandoned. Hailing from the Northeast, I must say I have a hard time relating to Mellencamp’s humble view of Midwest Americans on the track “The Americans.” Granted, we’re all proud and honored to live in the great land, but I don’t think we wish each other best quite as much as we should. The album’s title track “Freedom’s Road” has a nice southern bounce to it. If your fancy yourself as a truck person, you’ve probably heard “Our Country” in a prominent car commercial. There’s no denying its catchiness and relatability. The dark melodies and soft-spoken vocals of “Rural Route” paint a morbid picture.

The Bad
It’s too bad that “Our Country” is going to be associated with a truck, rather then the positive anthem it could be. Way to sell out John. But hey, you gotta eat too.

The Verdict
John Mellencamp has always been the working man’s storyteller. John keeps his legacy alive with ten more catchy songs from the heart and mind that will truly make you think.

Did You Know?
Freedom road debuted at #5 on the Billboard Album Chart; making this releases his highest debut ever.

Rating: out of 5

--George Dionne