Vermont’s Billboard Ban: A Surreal Contrast

Did you know that Vermont is one of four U.S. states where billboards are illegal? This unique regulation has created a striking visual contrast on the highways of Upstate New York, particularly those that border Vermont. Travelers along these routes encounter a plethora of advertisements, including a cow-themed country store nestled between a sex shop and a billboard depicting a fetus alongside a call for sinners to repent. The juxtaposition of these images contributes to the surreal and scenic character of the region.

Memories from College Days

During my college years in Vermont, I often made the journey to Albany, which offered its own set of peculiarities. My friends and I would trek through the snow to visit the only bar in town, where we experienced a delightful mix of locals, including farmers and truckers, engaging in karaoke. There were whispers about a professor who had been banned from the bar for fighting and another rumor, albeit less substantiated, that the same professor was prohibited from singing karaoke throughout the state of Vermont.

Greg Freeman: The Voice of Upstate New York

These colorful anecdotes would fit perfectly into the songs of Greg Freeman, a 27-year-old musician based in Burlington. His music captures the essence of unassuming Upstate New York locales like Rome and Rensselaer, transforming the region into a modern-day Wild West, rich with thrilling road songs, crime dramas, and ghost stories.

Burnover: A Timeless Album

Not every album resonates on the first listen, but Freeman’s second record, Burnover, feels as if it has always existed. Drawing inspiration from a mix of indie rock, country, and slacker rock, Freeman injects these genres with a refreshing sense of momentum. His take on alt-country amplifies the drama, whether he delves into historical fiction with tracks like “Burnover” and “Wolf Pine,” or explores personal heartbreak in songs like “Gallic Shrug” and “Sawmill.”

The Essence of Slacker Rock

Describing slacker rock as “urgent” or “emphatic” might seem contradictory, but Freeman proves that the genre’s disaffected style can convey profound emotions. His lyrics, such as likening desire to “a pie on a windowpane” and regret to “a cork stabbed into your wine bottle’s mouth,” create momentary worlds that draw listeners in.

Musical Influences and Style

Freeman’s sound can be traced along the map laid out by his musical predecessors, not through imitation, but by tapping into their timeless instincts. He embodies elements of:

• Warren Zevon: Known for his savage, thrill-seeking lyrics and dissonant grooves.
• Jason Molina: Balancing softhearted blues with rugged outlaw country.
• Jeff Mangum: Infusing surrealism and sound collage into his work.
• Stephen Malkmus: Mastering the art of saying much while appearing to say little.
• Bruce Springsteen: Exhibiting chameleonic magnetism, seamlessly shifting styles.

Freeman’s confidence shines through in lines like, “You’re a crescent moon now but I know you, girl/I know your dark majority,” and even in a casual mention of “John fuckin’ Henry.” His playful energy is evident when he shouts “Guitars! Guitars! Guitars!” to herald a guitar solo that spirals into a whirl of distortion and brass.

Emotional Depth in Lyrics

The outro of “Rome, New York” reveals a deeper vulnerability as Freeman’s voice grows thinner and more desperate, singing, “Heaven, like a ditch, will sometimes spill into the street at night/To pacify the muffled dreams of the broken-into cars.” This blend of personal and universal themes resonates with listeners, making Freeman’s work compelling and relatable.

Conclusion

Greg Freeman’s music captures the essence of Upstate New York, intertwining surreal imagery with poignant storytelling. His ability to draw from a variety of influences while creating an authentic sound sets him apart in today’s indie rock landscape. As listeners navigate the landscapes of his lyrics, they find themselves in a world where the mundane becomes extraordinary, and where the stories of small towns echo with universal truths.

FAQs

What makes Vermont unique in terms of advertising?

Vermont’s ban on billboards creates a distinctive visual landscape, contrasting with neighboring states where billboards proliferate.

Who is Greg Freeman?

Greg Freeman is a Burlington-based musician known for his storytelling through music, often reflecting the essence of Upstate New York.

What themes are explored in Freeman’s album Burnover?

The album explores themes of historical fiction, personal heartbreak, and the surreal aspects of life in unassuming locales.

How does Freeman’s music compare to his influences?

Freeman draws from a variety of influences, including Warren Zevon and Bruce Springsteen, blending elements of alt-country and slacker rock with his own unique perspective.