Johnathan Rice – Trouble Is Real

Johnathan Rice – Trouble Is Real

A richly detailed and quietly powerful collection of modern Americana songwriting, Trouble Is Real showcases the understated craft of American singer-songwriter Jonathan Rice, blending folk storytelling, chamber-pop textures, and roots-influenced arrangements into a cohesive and emotionally grounded record.

Released in 2011, the album reflects Rice’s ability to move between intimate acoustic songwriting and more expansive, cinematic production. Gentle strings, subtle percussion, and warm, organic instrumentation give the record a lived-in atmosphere that supports its reflective and narrative-driven lyrics.

Opening with the brief instrumental “Short Song For Strings,” the album quickly settles into the melancholic tone of “Mid-November” and the melodic introspection of “Kiss Me Goodbye” and “So Sweet.” Across these early tracks, Rice establishes themes of distance, memory, and emotional uncertainty.

Midway through the record, songs like “Lady Memphis” and “My Mother’s Son” deepen the album’s storytelling focus, supported by understated yet expressive contributions from collaborators such as Jesse Harris and bassist Tim Luntzel. “Behind The Frontlines” and “City On Fire” introduce a slightly more urgent, cinematic edge, contrasting with the album’s otherwise gentle pacing.

Later highlights such as “The Acrobat” and “Salvation Day” showcase Rice’s ability to balance poetic lyricism with subtle musical build, while closing tracks like “Hickory Wind (Outro)” and “I Wouldn’t Miss It For The World” bring the record to a soft, reflective conclusion.

A thoughtful and understated album, Trouble Is Real stands as a strong example of contemporary folk storytelling with a classic, timeless sensibility.

Tracklist:

1. Short Song For Strings
2. Mid-November
3. Kiss Me Goodbye
4. So Sweet
5. Break So Easy
6. Lady Memphis
7. Behind The Frontlines
8. My Mother's Son
9. Leave The Light On
10. City On Fire
11. Put Me In Your Holy War
12. Salvation Day
13. Stay At Home
14. The Acrobat
15. Hickory Wind (Outro)
16. I Wouldn't Miss It For The World