When I first listened to this album on the Geologic Podcast, I wasn't too fussed. After a few more times through, it grew on me and now I'm a definite fan! Funny, funky and lyrically great!
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It’s been five years since George Hrab last treated us to an official collection of his quirky, eclectic, humorous, scathing and often very moving tributes to life in the Geologic Universe, and Trebuchet is very much worth the wait. Despite the apparent tone of some of the song titles, the CD is overwhelmingly positive in its outlook and message. The vast range of styles has been captured, as always, with impeccable clarity by producer Slau. Their close friendship and working relationship is far more up-front on this offering, from the opening multi-tracked a capella intro of God Is Not Great, through the keys on Sviatoslav Lobster, to the final big band sounds of Happy Birthday Baby. Few of the songs are in any particularly conventional time signature, yet in many cases changes in beat are either unnoticeable on first listen, or else sneak up surreptitiously on the unexpecting ear. In the case of One Hypnopompic Jerk some listeners may run out of digits in an attempt to keep track of all the simultaneous rhythms!

Lyrically, Hrab has clearly had his thesaurus out to ensure we are thinking, or laughing, or often both at once. While lines such as “To look into your eyes is worth the eventual demise of Earth” are totally on message for the album, it is Hrab’s combination of music and lyrics that gets me: a simple “I should have told her this long ago” in combination with a perfectly orchestrated crescendo during Ms Information is probably the highlight for me, rounding out one of the funkiest love songs you’ll ever hear.

Trebuchet is an audio delight for anyone interested in music that surprises. It is a celebration of reality, covering the myriad wonders of life, love, loss and death, and comes highly recommended.
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I wish I had the vocabulary of George Hrab to explain how great his music is. All I can say is Goddamn he is flat out amazing. You are a lucky sob if you get to see him live let alone meet him. He is the most humble guy you could meet.  I challenge Dave Mustaine or David Gillmore to try and cover track 9 Treuchet. Good luck! The whole album rocks
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Ok, so maybe that's a mite over the top... but seriously, give this CD a good listen. George has always shown a wicked sense of humor and there's plenty here. Lyrics that are personal and thoughtful, witty and goofy. But this time out, His reach extends....dare I say it.... FAR !!!!    I'm a long time fan, having seen the early Ice House shows in Bethlehem from years back,but this CD shows a depth and maturity of a seasoned artist (which of course, he is...maybe paprika?, not sure) I can't say it enough..BUY THIS CD...while yer at it... get them all , you will not be sorry. I keep waiting for the world to catch up to George, but in the meanwhilst...enjoy the ride!
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