Album Review: Looking Glass by Doug Wayne
Alright, let’s talk about Looking Glass, the 1996 album by Doug Wayne. This thing’s a wild mix of Pop/Rock, Folk, World, and Country vibes, but it leans hard into that country style. Released in Brazil under Paradoxx Music and Turnip Records, this record feels like a road trip through dusty backroads and neon-lit honky-tonks. It’s got heart, grit, and just enough twang to keep you hooked.
The tracklist is packed with tunes, but two songs really stuck with me: “Fire D’Rain” and “Damn the Winter.” Let me break it down for ya.
“Fire D’Rain” hits you right outta the gate. It’s one of those tracks where the melody sneaks up on you—simple at first, but then BAM, it’s stuck in your head for days. The lyrics feel raw, like Doug’s pouring his soul into every word. I don’t know what it is about rain metaphors, but they work here. Maybe it’s the way the guitar strums echo like drops hitting pavement or how the chorus feels like a release. Whatever it is, it’s damn good.
Then there’s “Damn the Winter,” which is basically my mood every January. This song has a slower, brooding vibe, like sitting by a fire while the cold wind howls outside. The vocals are kinda haunting, and the instrumentation builds up so subtly you barely notice until you’re fully immersed. There’s something about the line “damn the winter, let it burn” that feels rebellious yet oddly comforting. Like, yeah, screw you, frostbite—I’m over it.
The rest of the album’s solid too. Tracks like “Runnin’ from the Law” and “American Made” bring some energy, while deeper cuts like “This Heavy Heart” show off Doug’s knack for storytelling. Even though the album came out in ’96, it doesn’t feel dated. If anything, it’s timeless in that boots-and-jeans kind of way.
What’s wild is that this was released in Brazil. Like, who would’ve thought a country-inspired album would drop there? It makes you wonder if Doug was trying to shake things up or just follow his own path. Either way, it paid off.
So yeah, Looking Glass isn’t perfect—it’s got its share of filler tracks—but it’s got soul. And honestly, isn’t that what music’s all about? Listening to it feels like chatting with an old friend who’s seen some stuff and isn’t afraid to tell you about it.
Oh, and fun fact: there are two versions of “Runnin’ from the Law” and “Showin’.” Not sure why, but hey, maybe Doug couldn’t decide which take he liked better. Kinda makes you appreciate the messy humanity behind making music, ya know?
Final thought? This album reminds me of that one pair of jeans you refuse to throw out because they’re comfy as hell, even if they’ve got a hole or two. Worth a listen, especially if you’re into country with a twist.
