There can be few reunions meet with as much anticipation as that of Chicago ’s Doom legends Trouble. Well over a decade since their last release and time has done nothing to diminish the bands reputation or standing amongst the Doom metal fraternity. In Wartell and Franklin Trouble not only had two of the most well respected guitarists, but two of the most creative plying their trade today at any point throughout the long history of Doom. With classics like Psalm 3, The Skull, and Trouble making up their back catalogue there is little wonder that any new release bearing the name Trouble is going to be meet with an avalanche of excitement. For yours truly this excitement is mixed with more than a little apprehension, as could this come back really live up to the expectations we have all built up over these ten long years?

In a word, NO! Let’s be honest be fair however no band can live up to much of the hype that surrounds the myth that is Trouble; and if you can keep this in mind you stand a fair chance that “Simple Mind Condition” won’t disappoint. Eric Wagner’s vocals remain as instantly recognisable as they ever were, and have lost none of their Plant like raspiness over the years. Blending seamlessly over the majestic riffing of the aforementioned Wartell and Franklin, it is staggering the nonchalant ease in which Trouble appear to be able to produce an album of such excellence.

From the album opener, “Goin’ Home” to the Zepplinesque “Trouble Maker“, to the low tempo “The Beginning Of Sorrows“; all are beautifully crafted in that inimitable Trouble style. These guys may well be in their mid forties, but by god have they still got the knack to produce a fist clenching Doom anthem. The comparisons will be unavoidable and opinions split as to the merits of “Simple Mind Condition” vs. the bands back catalogue, but for me Trouble have a special place in my heart reserved for very few. Those capable of being able to produce one mile stone master piece after another, of which there are few. For all the non-believers out there, if you don’t yet know what you are missing out on, then I pity the fool.