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Robbie LaBlanc: Double Trouble
Robbie LaBlanc - Double Trouble Album Art

Robbie LaBlanc: Double Trouble

AOR Melodic Hard Rock
4.0/5.0

American songwriter, guitarist, and vocalist Robbie LaBlanc has had a long and appreciated career in the realm of melodic rock. While there were many starts, stops, and disappointments early on, LaBlanc (along with his brother Brian) found success with Blanc Faces in the mid 2000's with two albums for the Frontiers Music label. This was followed by Find Me, with LaBlanc collaborating with Daniel Flores (Issa, The Murder of My Sweet, Seventh Wonder) for three applauded albums, the latest Angels In Blue only two years ago. Now with England's Escape Music label, LaBlanc releases his first solo album, Double Trouble, featuring Steve Overland and guitarist Tommy Denander.

Robbie LaBlanc - Click For Larger Image

Robbie LaBlanc

Since his reputation proceeds him, from Double Trouble you can expect more AOR melodic rock featuring LaBlanc' skillful songwriting and smooth, sometimes assertive, melodic vocals. The larger genre arc for his tunes is classic rock, yet with some nuances that include modestly heavier rockers, synth-laden Eighties style AOR, and some ventures into the West Coast musical motif, a largely neglected genre in these modern days.

To the first style, listen for Start Motor Running, Don't Do Love, and Better Man. Voodoo Woman tricks you with an AOR-ish piano and vocal start, but eventually the riffs and rhythm section get bolder. For the synth-infused 80's AOR spin the following: Temptation, Only Human, and my personal favorite, Never Let A Good Time Go. As for that West Coast groove, you might find it within the softer Pure or My Lips Are Sealed with its mixed riffage.

Most things considered, with his first solo album Double Trouble, we find Robbie LaBlanc in familiar musical territory, delivering well-crafted AOR melodic hard rock. But what else would you expect from this talented musician? Recommended.


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The Bottom Line

Most things considered, with his first solo album Double Trouble, we find Robbie LaBlanc in familiar musical territory, delivering well-crafted AOR melodic hard rock. But what else would you expect from this talented musician? Recommended.

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