The fate and career longevity for most boy band members after they have dissembled has not been very long or kind that is unless you're Justin Timberlake. However, former NLT lead singer Travis Garland is trying his hardest to prove otherwise with his debut and self-titled solo effort. Although his album is clearly inspired by many of the contemporary factors in today's R&B and pop music, he prefers to say "Every song is different. I wouldn't say there's a process. It's kind of just a pure, organic collaboration."
The first single released, "Clouds," is an edgy soul and rock-influenced track that showcases the sultry crooner high on love. This song nailed Garland's nonchalant aesthetic by keeping the vibe smooth, especially during the bridges of "I wanna fly. Over the trees. Over the world. Just you and me." The second track off the album was unveiled just last week and immediately trended on social media sites for good reason. "Motel Pools" not only has the benefit of having a provocative title, but it was also produced by The Stereotypes, who are the same hitmakers behind Danity Kane's smash "Damaged" and Far East Movement's "Rocketeer." As far as sound is considered, there is slick, rhythmic vibe that compliments the R&B influences in Travis' vocals making it a frontrunner for the album.
Attempting to address the issue of cheating spouses is one of Garland's more emotionally driven tracks rightfully named "Homewrecker." His lyrics seem to speak from self-experience with a chorus of "I turned you into a home, homewrecker. Girl you're really gonna need a maid to clean up the mess we made." Not all of the lyrics are lyrically rooted in some deep social issue, as is the case for "Pullin My Hair," a sexually charged track describing some hair pulling fantasy. Travis slows it down in "Blue Electric Roses" with a pulsing beat and words describing a girl he's fallen head over heels for. Following the theme of love is "Abby Lee," which also turns the table on Garland's music style again by featuring him preaching for forgiveness for the thoughts he's having about some girl.
Pop-culture trends may not have favored the members of boy band group's who've split up, but Travis Garland took none of that into consideration when creating his first self-titled album. With a solid collection of songs behind him it's unknown to be seen if his indie record label will publicize his efforts enough to get it to the masses. Regardless, followers of his group NLT and those who've stumbled upon him in some other way will likely be pleased to hear the variety and quality of music within his album.
Grade: A-
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