Cathi's CD Reviews 8-30-09
Castro, Tommy – “Hard Believer” (Alligator) B+Blues Rocker Tommy Castro has been after it for years – a hard workin’ road man and prolific guitarist. This is another good album of blues rock with some real gems…some not so much. He seems to be writing more about the hard knocks that road and relationships have dealt him – esp. the ones he got from learning about himself the hard way. A mature look through songwriting at the tough way to go. But the music is great and he boosts the blues with rock when it needs it. A decent disc. Not much for morning mix. Dedicates the album to Stephen Bruton – a good pal.
Ford, Robben- “Soul on Ten” (Concord Music Group) B+
Guitar ace Ford is always in the interesting zone, and I agree with his philosophy that his shows pack a powerful punch (that’s why he likes to record live). He plays long riffs and solos over his always-in-the-pocket band, yet sometimes it gets a little fusion-y for me. Once again this is definitely a guitar slinger’s disc his sustain is now accented with lots of wah wah pedal), but when he tackles the blues head on, it’s dazzling (Spoonful/Set a date). But overall the song choices seem odd…for some that might just be “original.” Playing great.
Langdon, David – “This Time” (Whip Records) A-
After producing records for untold musicians at his studio and playing with his own band in California, Langdon started producing his own records. This is not his first, though the first I’ve heard. He is a really tasty guitarist, a good singer, and has the taste rarely seen in putting his band together Lots of backup vocals are a rarity and he’s got not only that, but masterful players backing him up. These guys are old enough to know better, but they can’t help themselves, and I’m glad. They do a little arranging of originals (a la Robben Ford) that might not appeal to the traditional blues lovers, but wow…they’re good, and oh my…that guitar sense…and completely smooth at the styles! (Slow ones are beautiful but kind of long.)
Riley, Dave & Bob Corritore – “Lucky to be Livin” (Blue Witch Rec) A-
Mississippi-bred guitarist Riley started out in Gospel and hit Chicago where he played awhile before stepping away from music. After a stint in the service he teamed up with harper Bob Corritore – best known as manager/owner of the Rhythm Room in Phoenix, AZ (a real stop on the blues road these days). Corritore, also a popular SWestern DJ, produced several albums (Henry Gray, Chief Schabuttie Gilliame, Janiva Magness, etc.), guesting on many of them. Recently he’s stepping more into the playing limelight, winning kudos for the excellent disc featuring Chris James and Patrick Rynn (who step in to support a few of these tunes). Here he does an acoustic based duo..paying tribute to Sam Carr, Frank Frost and other heroes. This is one of the last discs on which Henry Gray plays piano. Nice porch blues feel.
Twisters – “Come Out Swingin’” (Northern Blues ) A
This is the Canadian artists second disc since a band mate’s death kept them off the road for about 10 years. The first one was an amazing blues record. Just about the time you think they’ve moved entirely into a swing thing, they pop up with rockabilly, reggae and even a gospel tune. I love these guys. They really are good at everything they seem to do. I vote yes. Try some out!
posted by Cathi N @ 3:40:00 PM
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