Train - Drops of Jupiter: 20th Anniversary Edition [Ltd Ed Bronze Colored Vinyl]

There's definitely nothing wrong with echoing classic rock and harmonic pop sounds, especially when it's done this well. Drops of Jupiter, Train's two-time Grammy-winning 2001 album, revels in sweeping hooks and soulful comfort borrowed from proven 70s methods. The approach resonated with the public and made Train a ubiquitous presence of mainstream radio, a status the group still enjoys.

At its core, the San Francisco quintet's sophomore record is the sound of what happens when concerns about trends and coolness are put aside and solid, simple, genuinely earnest music is made the primary focus. Drawing from influences such as Elton John and Van Morrison, Train crafts eminently listenable fare steeped in finely tailored melodies and bolstered by affirmative, uplifting messages. Complementary accents in the form of sing-a-long refrains, folksy mandolins, and scene-setting synthesizer fills give songs grounding and fully realized depth. Time and again, the quintet's acoustic-based material satisfies and inspires.

Nowhere is this truer than on the soaring title track, a string- and piano-led orchestral ballad that remained in the Top 40 charts for an incredible 29 straight weeks. Nominated for five Grammy Awards, it won for Best Rock Song and Best Instrumental Arrangement Accompany Vocalist(s). Alternatively shimmering, endearing, and soothing, the rest of the Brendan O'Brien-produced album features the same consistency and passion throughout. Legendary pianist Chuck Leavell (Rolling Stones, Allman Brothers Band) and veteran Elton John arranger Paul Buckmaster also lend their hands, contributing to a set awash in anthemic persuasion and elegant grace.

She's On Fire
I Wish You Would
Drops Of Jupiter
It's About You
Hopeless
Let It Roll
Something More
Whipping Boy
Getaway
Mississippi