Walter Trout's penchant for creating big, some may say bloated, blues rock has made himan icon in certain parts of Europe. In the States, he's scrapped for the blues-rock guitar throne that's been vacant since Stevie Ray Vaughan died nearly 20 years ago. The guy has complete control of the fretboard but often has had trouble easing up on the throttle.

With that said, it's nice to see he puts as much emphasis on the songs as he does his solos on "The Outsider." Make no mistake, guitar fans will still love it - the cover shows the artist with a beautifully beaten Stratocaster - but Trout is able to do what so many of his genre have failed at and put equal emphasis on the craft. Those familiar with Trout know his heart is as big as his tone; lyrically, he tries to provide positivity and self-empowerment. In the mid-tempo, acoustic-driven "All My Life," the narrator tries to do his best despite being "just a man." In the opening "Welcome to the Human Race," a big arena rocker that provides ample room for his stringwork, he runs through a long list of life's trials and tribulations.

"The Love Song of J. Alfred Bluesrock," not surprisingly a 12-bar shuffle, puts a new spin on the supposed inspirations of bluesmen. Suffice to say, he doesn't view cocaine and booze as positive enablers. His gruff voice provides the requisite authority for such subject matter and his guitar solos hit the stratosphere on this one. The plight of Vietnam veterans has become a recurring theme with Trout and here he presents a sympathetic understanding on "Child of Another Day." "A Matter of the Heart" is a ballad that shows how much Trout has grown as a songwriter.

Blues-rock as a genre can be a frustrating listen because there hasn't been much originality over the last few decades. With "The Outsider," Trout proves that one need not reinvent the musical language if it's played skillfully and honestly. His is a talent deserving much wider recognition.