August 31, 2001

By ROBERT KINSLER    Special to the Register

Has Trout's time come?

Despite a schedule that includes more than 100 shows a year, Walter Trout has released a new CD every year since 1998, including his latest, "Go the Distance," which highlights a trio of strong recent efforts by Orange County-based artists.

Walter Trout and the Radicals "Go the Distance," Ruf

Perhaps now, with the release of his latest CD, "Go the Distance," Walter Trout's time has come.

Fans of the Huntington Beach-based singer-songwriter-guitarist can only shake their heads in bewilderment while trying to figure out why Trout headlines before thousands of fans every time he performs in Europe but continues to play small- and medium-size clubs at home.

The first track on the disc, "Love So Deep," begins with Trout's blistering lead-guitar work, equal parts blues and rock without sacrificing any substance and emotion in the seamless mix of styles.

And Trout doesn't stop there; "Outta Control" is equally strong, showcasing his commanding vocals and expert skills driving his Fender at speeds and heights that dazzle, mixing the artful muscle of the late Stevie Ray Vaughan with the speed of Ten Years After's Alvin Lee.

Even when performing a traditional-style blues piece like "Go the Distance," Trout's winning mix of R&B vocals and intelligent fretwork never fails to impress.

In fact, Trout is such an amazing guitarist, it's easy to overlook his powers as singer and songwriter.

He scores mightily when singing the beautiful blues ballad "Faithful" and flips a coin to deliver a sonic sprint for fans of blues guitar with "Down to You."

But while the 13-song collection may primarily showcase Trout, his backing trio - the Radicals - offers solid musical accompaniment throughout. "I Don't Want My MTV," may boost the most memorable title and is a solid classic-rock anthem for the countless thousands of musicians around the world who don't deliver the sort of prepackaged sound and choreographed dance moves to win play on the station.

For more information on Trout and "Go the Distance," visit Trout's official Web site (www.waltertrout.com) or write Trout in care of: Box 246, Huntington Beach, CA 92648.