Cold Cold World

The song "Cold Cold World" from Barry-г Goudreau's 1980 self-titled album is a standout track that closes the record with a nod to Queen's theatrical rock style, as noted by a fan on Amazon. Sung by Fran Cosmo, who later joined Boston in 1991, the song features a dramatic vocal performance over a driving rhythm and frenetic guitar leads, as described by Record World. While not a chart-topping single like "Dreams" from the same album, "Cold Cold World" has been praised by fans for its catchy, Boston-esque sound. One reviewer on Amazon highlighted its unique blend, comparing it to a cross between Boston and The Cars, showcasing Goudreau's ability to craft melodies that resonate with classic rock fans. The song's relative obscurity has made it a hidden gem, with fans expressing delight at discovering it years later, as seen in comments on Steve Hoffman Music Forums, where enthusiasts discuss tracking down copies of the album.

In a 2003 interview with Classic Rock Revisited, Goudreau shared insights into the album's creation, noting that it was recorded in just nine months during a hiatus from Boston in 1980. He collaborated with Boston bandmates Brad Delp and Sib Hashian, as well as Fran Cosmo, to produce a record that was initially well-received but later dropped by the label due to promotional disputes. Goudreau mentioned in the interview that the album was a chance for him to step out from Boston's shadow and showcase his songwriting, though tensions arose when the record label added a "Boston Sound" sticker to the album, which reportedly angered Boston's Tom Scholz. This contributed to Goudreau's eventual departure from Boston, as discussed in a 2015 interview on Carl Hose's blog. Fans on Barry Goudreau's Engine Room Facebook page often celebrate the album's raw energy, with some calling "Cold Cold World" a track that deserves more recognition.

Barry Goudreau, born November 29, 1951, in Boston, Massachusetts, began his musical journey at a young age, inspired by the guitar sounds of Elvis and Roy Orbison, as he recalled on his official website. At age 11, he borrowed an acoustic guitar from a friend and took lessons, eventually convincing his parents to buy him a 1962 Fender Stratocaster. By 13, he joined his first band, the Tornadoes, and at 15, he was performing in nightclubs seven nights a week alongside future Boston drummer Sib Hashian, as noted in a 2017 article by 01907 The Magazine. Goudreau's early career included an audition for Brad Delp's band, where he met Delp and bassist Fran Sheehan, though he didn't make the cut. While studying geology at Boston University, he continued playing music, joining a band called Random Sample and meeting Tom Scholz through an ad in The Boston Phoenix, as detailed on The Music Museum of New England. This connection led to his role as one of Boston's original guitarists, contributing to their iconic debut album in 1976.

Goudreau's official online presence includes his website, where fans can explore his discography and current projects like Barry Goudreau's Engine Room. His Facebook page for Engine Room shares updates on performances and new music, while his Instagram offers glimpses into his live shows and personal life. On X, Goudreau engages with fans, posting about upcoming gigs and classic rock nostalgia. Fan communities thrive on sites like The Band Boston Fan Site, which chronicles his contributions to Boston and solo work. Additionally, the Boston Rock Band Fan Group on Facebook is a vibrant space where Zoo Freaks can connect with other fans to discuss Goudreau's music, share rare tracks like "Cold Cold World," and celebrate his enduring legacy in rock.