Spaceman in Tulsa, review
As members of Counterfeiting Crows, a Counting Crows tribute band, we've had the privilege of experiencing the band's musical evolution firsthand. Their latest release, Spaceman in Tulsa—the first track from Butter Miracle, The Complete Suites—is another bold and captivating step forward in their already impressive catalog. It's a masterclass in how Counting Crows continues to evolve while holding onto the core elements that have always made them our favorite band.
Right from the opening notes, Spaceman in Tulsa captures that familiar Counting Crows magic, but with a fresh twist. The song is expansive yet intimate, blending storytelling with an expansive sound that feels both nostalgic and modern. One of the standout features of this track, and the Butter Miracle series as a whole, is how seamlessly it fits into the larger sonic landscape the band has been crafting over the years. The way the song ebbs and flows, creating emotional peaks and valleys, is a testament to the band's mastery of song structure.
lyrically, like most of Adams songs, the words are powerfull, emotional, metaphoric and yet somehow straightforward. I think being a spaceman in Tulsa is symbolic of just feeling like an outsider or different than other people. The title character finds a way to use his differences to become a rockstar, he sets off to chase his dreams and nothings going to stop him. It’s a rally cry for anyone looking to truly find your purpose and achieve your goals, despite the tragedies that my have happened growing up.
What truly shines in Spaceman in Tulsa is the fluidity with which it moves. The transitions within the song are smooth, and the way each section blends into the next feels like a natural continuation of the story. It's a rare skill that Counting Crows possesses—the ability to create a song that feels like a journey, each part of it necessary to build the emotional impact.
We also can't help but appreciate the subtle 70s influences in the track. It's clear that Spaceman in Tulsa is part of the band's ongoing homage to the era of rock musicals and collaborations between giants like Elton John and The Who. The song feels like a throwback to a time when rock was larger than life, but still rooted in raw, honest storytelling.
At Counterfeiting Crows, we're always inspired by how Counting Crows continues to renew their sound while staying true to their roots. Spaceman in Tulsa is a perfect example of this—an adventurous, innovative song that still retains everything that makes Counting Crows, well, Counting Crows. It's why they'll always be our favorite band.
If you haven't already, dive into Spaceman in Tulsa—and if you're ever in the mood to experience the magic of Counting Crows live, come see Counterfeiting Crows. We'll be bringing their unforgettable sound to the stage, just as they've been bringing it to our hearts for years.