What makes Trains and Boats and Planes by Laura Cantrell notable?

This album is significant as it received critical acclaim and solidified Laura Cantrell's position within the Americana genre. Notably, it includes a cover of Gordon Lightfoot's 'The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald,' which was praised for its emotional depth and vocal delivery, contributing to discussions around contemporary interpretations of classic folk songs. By the time Laura Cantrell released 'Trains and Boats and Planes' in 2008, she was already recognized for her unique fusion of country and folk, following her previous albums and having built a loyal fanbase. This release marked her return after several years, showcasing a matured sound while continuing to explore themes of travel and longing.

Who is Trains and Boats and Planes for?

Trains and Boats and Planes works well if you're into reflective storytelling through personal narratives, short tracks for casual listening and wistful journeys on the road.

How many songs are on Trains and Boats and Planes?

Trains and Boats and Planes has 9 tracks, running approximately 34 minutes.

Trains and Boats and Planes

Laura Cantrell · 2008

34 min · 9 tracks · country music

A blend of reflective folk and country sounds, intertwining personal narratives with rich Americana textures.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald — Cantrell's rendition transforms this classic narrative into a hauntingly beautiful tribute that highlights her storytelling ability and vocal prowess.
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Train of Life — This track encapsulates the album's theme of journeying through life, blending upbeat rhythms with introspective lyrics that resonate with listeners.
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Love Vigilantes — A poignant interpretation of an early New Order song, Cantrell's version adds layers of emotional weight, reflecting on themes of love and loss.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases strong songwriting and production, with a cohesive sound that reflects Americana influences.

What we noticed

The first track opens with a gentle acoustic guitar and soft vocals, establishing a reflective mood that persists throughout.
Several tracks feature layered harmonies, particularly in the choruses, enhancing the emotional weight of the narratives.
The arrangement of 'The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald' incorporates subtle instrumentation that complements Cantrell's vocal delivery without overshadowing it.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

reflective storytelling through personal narratives
short tracks for casual listening
wistful journeys on the road
gentle melodies for quiet moments

Maybe skip if you

prefer high-energy, fast-paced music
want complex arrangements and experimentation

Where this album fits

Career context: By the time Laura Cantrell released 'Trains and Boats and Planes' in 2008, she was already recognized for her unique fusion of country and folk, following her previous albums and having built a loyal fanbase. This release marked her return after several years, showcasing a matured sound while continuing to explore themes of travel and longing.
Stylistic neighbors: Neko Case· Rosanne Cash· Kacey Musgraves