Music Writing
Album Reviews
A new four-disc box set revisits the trio's 1968 farewell tour in the band's first release since the death of Ginger Baker.
Published by Rock and Roll Globe on March 17, 2020.
The Best "Various Artists" LP of 2019: Revving Up the Ol' 55
A new all-women tribute album offers a unique lens honoring songwriting legend Tom Waits.
Published by Rock and Roll Globe on January 6, 2020.
Mr. Hansen finds room to breathe on his 14th album Hyperspace.
Published by Rock and Roll Globe on December 23, 2019.
Rich Robinson Has Birds on the Brain
From The Black Crowes to The Magpie Salute, Rich Robinson was determined to erase doubt about his abilities as a songwriter.
Published by Rock and Roll Globe on November 15, 2019.
Liam Gallagher Doubles Down on his Solo Return Why Me? Why Not.
Liam Gallagher released his second solo album on September 20, 2019.
Published by Consequence of Sound on September 19, 2019.
Peter Frampton's 'Blues Thesis'
A medical diagnosis pushed Frampton to choose one final focus for the last creative burst of his career—and he decided to sing the blues.
Published by Rock and Roll Globe on July 8, 2019.
Tyler Bryant and the Shakedown: Truth and Lies Review
The Shakedown released their third album Truth and Lies on Snakefarm Records on June 28, 2019.
Published by Blues Rock Review on June 28, 2019.
Keb' Mo' released his latest album on Concord Records on June 14, 2019.
Published by Blues Rock Review on June 14, 2019.
Left Lane Cruiser: Shake and Bake Review
The Indiana duo released their latest album on Alive Records on May 31, 2019.
Published by Blues Rock Review on May 28, 2019.
Vintage Trouble: Chapter II – EP II Review
Part two of Vintage Trouble's Chapter II project was released on May 10, 2019.
Published by Blues Rock Review on May 10, 2019.
Turn On, Tune In and Enjoy the Poppies
Craft Recordings' new compilation brings psychedelia's inaugural era back to life.
Published by Rock and Roll Globe on May 7, 2019.
Hamish Anderson: Out of My Head Review
Australian singer/songwriter Hamish Anderson is set to release his sophomore album Out of My Head in May 2019.
Published by Blues Rock Review on April 26, 2019.
John Mayall: Nobody Told Me Review
Fifty-three years after releasing his first album with the Bluesbreakers, John Mayall returns with his latest solo album.
Published by Blues Rock Review on April 17, 2019.
Gary Hoey: Neon Highway Blues Review
Gary Hoey enlists Eric Gales, Josh Smith and Lance Lopez to share guitar duties on his 21st album, Neon Highway Blues.
Published by Blues Rock Review on April 10, 2019.
Elles Bailey: Road I Call Home Review
Vocalist Elles Bailey stuns on her second album Road I Call Home, released Mach 8, 2019 on Outlaw Music.
Published by Blues Rock Review on April 2, 2019.
A Modern Bluesman's Political Awakening
Gary Clark Jr. holds nothing back on his third album This Land.
Published by Rock and Roll Globe on March 6, 2019.
Rival Sons: Feral Roots Review
"Power. Control. Mastery. Rival Sons are back with their sixth studio album Feral Roots—and it brings all three of these descriptors to life."
Review of Rival Sons' sixth studio album Feral Roots, out January 25, 2019.
Published by Blues Rock Review on January 25, 2019.
The "One Night Only" You Can Savor on Repeat
"The physical release of Gregory Porter's first live album shows the jazz vocals master celebrating his roots and staking his claim in the genre."
Review of the physical release of Gregory Porter's live album One Night Only: Live at the Royal Albert Hall.
Published by Rock and Roll Globe on January 24, 2019.
Walter Trout: Survivor Blues Review
"Odds are good that you haven't heard most of these, even if you are a diehard blues fan—and that's precisely the point of this album."
Review of Walter Trout's latest album Survivor Blues, released January 25, 2019.
Published by Blues Rock Review on January 23, 2019.
Vintage Trouble: Chapter II EP Review
"Vintage Trouble's latest EP Chapter II, out last month, is vastly different from anything the band has released before, taking several calculated risks that likely won't resonate with every fan. Which is exactly why the band also made an acoustic version of the same set of songs, a decision that began as a gesture to loyal fans and transformed during the recording process into an entirely different creative venture."
Review of Vintage Trouble's latest EP Chapter II, released November 2018.
Published by Blues Rock Review on December 6, 2018.
Doyle Bramhall II: Shades Review
"Over a delicate piano melody, Bramhall sings of childhood ease gone by and grapples with identity and healing in adulthood, returning throughout the song to the refrain, 'Don't we break apart just to mend?' It's an honest—if heartbreaking—story of awareness and personal struggle, an illuminating glimpse into the heart and mind of a musician who has for decades appeared on too many albums to name and is coming into his voice as a solo artist."
Review of Doyle Bramhall II's latest solo album Shades, released October 2018.
Published by Blues Rock Review on October 12, 2018.
"Them blues run the range from the lowest of lows to the highest of highs and all points in between," Gibbons says. "Them blues lurks deep down inside."
Rock and roll legend Billy Gibbons discusses his second solo album The Big Bad Blues, released in September 2018 on Concord Records.
Published by Rock and Roll Globe on October 3, 2018.
The Record Company: All of This Life Review
"The soul of the first album remains on All of This Life, but with greater force: It has an undeniable energy to it, an energy that isn't dependent on the technical virtuosity that marks other blues and rock projects but instead takes the foundation of the blues and updates it for a modern audience."
Review of The Record Company's album All of This Life, released June 2018.
Published by Blues Rock Review on July 20, 2018.
Hunter and the Dirty Jacks: Chase the Moonlight Review
"While Single Barrel sounded like it was very carefully produced, with leading single 'Rock and Roll Soul' in particular featuring pronounced drumbeats and crystal-clear vocals from Ackerman, Chase the Moonlight album opener 'Tumbleweed' is a better fit for the band's live performances, a reminder that the stage is where this particular band excels."
Review of Hunter and the Dirty Jacks' latest album Chase the Moonlight.
Published by Blues Rock Review on May 25, 2018.
The Temperance Movement: A Deeper Cut Review
"White Bear set a high bar for the Temperance Movement to reach; it's nice to see the band stepping up [on A Deeper Cut] to meet the challenge."
Review of The Temperance Movement's third studio album A Deeper Cut.
Published by Blues Rock Review on May 11, 2018.
The Sheepdogs: Changing Colours Review
"The quintet [has remained] dependable in its commitment to rock, producing music on album after album that closely reflects the sounds that first inspired its members."
Review of The Sheepdogs' album Changing Colours, released February 2, 2018.
Published by Blues Rock Review on February 5, 2018.
Tyler Bryant & the Shakedown: Tyler Bryant & the Shakedown Review
"Five years [after the release of Tyler Bryant and the Shakedown's debut album Wild Child], they've gained so much more experience with touring, navigating record label deals and writing music that speaks to who they are and the message they want to share with the world–and it has all benefited their music."
Review of Tyler Bryant and the Shakedown's sophomore album, out November 3, 2017.
Published by Blues Rock Review on November 3, 2017.
Jared James Nichols: Black Magic Review
"Black Magic is an album as exuberant as its creator: it's spunky, bouncy and about 10 other adjectives that can be used to indicate energy and enthusiasm."
Review of Jared James Nichols' new album Black Magic, out October 27, 2017.
Published by Blues Rock Review on October 13, 2017.
Black Stone Cherry: Black To Blues EP Review
"The six-track EP features some of our favorite songs from four blues giants: Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf, Albert King and Freddie King all get nods from Black Stone Cherry as the band puts its own hard rock spin on each track."
Review of Black Stone Cherry's new EP Black to Blues, out September 29, 2017.
Published by Blues Rock Review on October 3, 2017.
Walter Trout: We’re All In This Together Review
"This could easily become a series, with 14 new artists featured for the next album, and 14 more for the album after that. What do you say, Walter?"
Review of Walter Trout's latest album We're All In This Together, out August 25, 2017.
Published by Blues Rock Review on August 25, 2017.
Thomas Wynn and the Believers: Wade Waist Deep Review
"Likely due to its six-person lineup, Wade Waist Deep achieves the breadth of a full band without unnecessary studio polish. Thomas Wynn and the Believers sound raw but not rough, and the band members are clearly striving towards a specific sound and effect."
Review of the third album by Thomas Wynn and the Believers, out May 19, 2017.
Published by Blues Rock Review on May 19, 2017.
Eleven albums later, Debbie Harry and Chris Stein still know how to throw a party.
Published by Consequence of Sound on April 27, 2017.
Little Hurricane: Same Sun Same Moon Review
"Little Hurricane took time for this new collection, letting inspiration find them as they traveled through California from Alpine to Lake Tahoe with their home studio in tow. Though 'OTL' doesn't feature guitar at all, 'Bad Business' is a riff-driven track that stands out as one of the album's best, its rhythm and tone seeded in the 'dirty blues' style that Tone and C.C. pursued during their early years together."
Review of Little Hurricane's third album Same Sun Same Moon, released April 14, 2017.
Published by Blues Rock Review on April 14, 2017.
A heavy, artsy, and dramatic record that offers more with each listen.
Published by Consequence of Sound on February 20, 2017.
An attempt to please everyone ends up leaving nobody entirely satisfied.
Published by Consequence of Sound on January 15, 2017.
Beth Hart: Fire on the Floor Review
"Fire on the Floor is an aged album with a twist: reminiscent of the 1930s and '40s jazz and soul, the album's blips of electric guitar and organ serve as gentle reminders of the modern age."
Review of Beth Hart's new album Fire on the Floor, due out in the U.S. in February.
Published by Blues Rock Review on January 5, 2017.
The Rolling Stones: Blue and Lonesome Review
"The second track, "Commit a Crime," is one of the album's strongest standouts. Most famously recorded by Howlin' Wolf, the Stones' version has a rolling tempo like Wolf's—the spin here is with the guitar solo two minutes in, which Jagger replaces with his own harmonica solo."
Review of the Rolling Stones' latest album Blue and Lonesome, released December 2, 2016.
Published by Blues Rock Review on December 15, 2016.
Joanne Shaw Taylor: Wild Review
"Wild is not wild; it's careful and sometimes cautious, though there are moments of abandon that sneak in. Wild wears in well, rewarding patient listeners more than those expecting an immediate hit."
Review of Joanne Shaw Taylor's fifth studio album Wild.
Published by Blues Rock Review on December 6, 2016.
Joe Bonamassa: Live at the Greek Theatre Review
"When the album concludes with "Riding with the Kings" as an encore, Bonamassa leaves his audience with the feeling that, while many artists can and should play the music of these legendary bluesmen, no one can do it quite like him."
Review of Joe Bonamassa's latest release, Live at the Greek Theatre.
Published by Blues Rock Review on October 24, 2016.
Bad Suns Return with Disappear Here
"Bad Suns have now returned with Disappear Here, a 13-track album that has even more bounce and pop-rock than their debut."
Review of Bad Suns' sophomore album Disappear Here, released on September 16, 2016.
Published by the San Diego Reader on September 23, 2016.
Walter Trout: ALIVE in Amsterdam Review
"On ALIVE, his solos are scorching and his vocals are powerful—Trout is in his element, playing better than ever. Between these flashes of talent come the praises of a humble parent, proudly gesturing to his son's guest appearance on guitar as though he has no idea where John Trout learned his skill."
Review of Walter Trout's 2016 live album, recorded on November 28, 2015 in Amsterdam.
Published by Blues Rock Review on July 22, 2016.
Rival Sons: Hollow Bones Review
"When the nine-track Hollow Bones starts with "Hollow Bones, Pt. 1," it sounds like we as listeners are stepping into a Rival Sons concert in progress. The energy is alive and breathable, driving home the band's continued appreciation for authenticity during the recording process."
Review of Rival Sons' fifth album Hollow Bones, released June 10, 2016 on Earache Records.
Published by Blues Rock Review on June 20, 2016.
The Rides: Pierced Arrow Review
"Supertrio the Rides—Stephen Stills, Kenny Wayne Shepherd and Barry Goldberg—return May 6 with Pierced Arrow, their first release since their debut album Can't Get Enough tapped into Blues Rock Review's Top 20 Albums of 2013."
Review of the Rides' second album Pierced Arrow, due out May 6.
Published by Blues Rock Review on April 20, 2016.
Robin Trower: Where You Are Going To Review
"Where You Are Going To is thoughtful and judicious, capable of grabbing its audience with short guitar bursts amid the mellow tempos of most tracks."
Review of Robin Trower's forthcoming solo album, due out May 6, 2016.
Published by Blues Rock Review on April 6, 2016.
Tedeschi Trucks Band: Let Me Get By Review
"Thoughtful, in control, mature. These sentiments are eminent both lyrically and musically on the Tedeschi Trucks Band's third studio album Let Me Get By."
Review of the Tedeschi Trucks Band's latest album, released in January 2016.
Published by Blues Rock Review on February 11, 2016.
Dave Davies: Rippin’ Up New York City: Live at the City Winery
"'There is madness here!' shouted a spunky Dave Davies at a concert in New York City last November. What followed wasn't exactly madness, but it was energetic and rife with classic rock 'n' roll moments."
Review of Dave Davies' latest live album, released in September 2015.
Published by Elmore Magazine on September 23, 2015.
Vintage Trouble: 1 Hopeful Rd. Review
"The TroubleMakers of the world sure are excited....On their second full-length, Vintage Trouble continue pursuing the high energy recording style that served them well their first time around."
Review of Vintage Trouble's second album 1 Hopeful Rd., out August 2015.
Published by Blues Rock Review on August 26, 2015.
Bob Malone: Mojo Deluxe Review
"On Bob Malone's new album Mojo Deluxe, the keyboardist whacks listeners' ears to attention with the skill he has honed over a lifetime of playing blues, soul and rock 'n roll, reminding us that real blues music comes not from the instruments but from the feeling behind each note."
Review of Bob Malone's eighth solo album Mojo Deluxe, out August 21.
Published by Blues Rock Review on August 17, 2015.
Lazer Lloyd: Lazer Lloyd Review
"When the final notes of the earnest 'Whole Heart' fade, Lloyd's album stands as a technically solid and well-produced collection of 11 new original tracks and one notable tribute."
Review of Lazer Lloyd's latest solo album, released in June 2015.
Published by Blues Rock Review on August 5, 2015.
"New to Australia's rock scene is Datura4, a blues-influenced band reminiscent of the psychedelic guitar sound that the 1970s knew too well."
Review of Datura4's debut album Demon Blues.
Published by Blues Rock Review on July 20, 2015.
Royal Southern Brotherhood: Don’t Look Back Review
"Despite the loss of [former guitarist Mike] Zito on this record, the band is strong and sure, creating songs that bring some of the blues' oldest and most common themes to light."
Review of Royal Southern Brotherhood's third album Don't Look Back.
Published by Blues Rock Review on July 8, 2015.
Christian Collin: Spirit of the Blues Review
"On Spirit of the Blues, Collin comes into his own, producing a slick combination of dance-ready tunes ('One and Only,' 'Dance the Blues Away') with stricken songs about relationships threatened ('Without You,' 'A Woman Like You')."
Review of Christian Collin's second solo album Spirit of the Blues, out July 10, 2015.
Published by Blues Rock Review on June 23, 2015.
Brandon Flowers' Desired Effect
"The second solo record by the Killers frontman Brandon Flowers is a revival of the sounds and sentiments behind the 1980s dance-pop genre."
Review of Brandon Flowers' second solo album The Desired Effect, released May 18, 2015.
Published by the San Diego Reader on May 22, 2015.
Turk Tresize: If It Is to Be Review
"From the rocking album-opener "Cold Honey" to the pondering "Gravy Train," Tresize puts the genre through its paces from its southern roots to its modern rock infusions."
Review of Turk Tresize's latest album If It Is to Be, out next month.
Published by Blues Rock Review on May 20, 2015.
Josh Smith: Over Your Head Review
"The 12-track Over Your Head is an escape into the wailing riffs that draw fans to blues festivals around the world. Smith's album is ideal for those looking to lose themselves in the genre, swaying from side to side as the guitar takes center stage."
Review of Josh Smith's 2015 album Over Your Head.
Published by Blues Rock Review on May 6, 2015.
Boz Scaggs: A Fool to Care Review
The renowned bluesman Boz Scaggs has a new album out, and it's classic Scaggs. It's also classic Al Green, classic Spinners, and classic Bobby Charles....From the soulful "Full of Fire" to the Latin-inspired "Last Tango on 16th Street," Scaggs invigorates the blues by reminding listeners that it's a versatile genre, able to incorporate instruments and sounds that aren't typically associated with its bluesman-on-the-porch image.
Review of Boz Scaggs' 2015 record A Fool to Care.
Published by Blues Rock Review on April 23, 2015.
Beth Hart: Better Than Home Review
"Through 10 songs and one bonus track, Hart tells the story of a survivor. The album encompasses a love letter ('Mechanical Heart'), a plea ('Tell Her You Belong to Me'), and a retrospective ('St. Teresa'), but above all it evaluates the potential to make peace with the past and move on to something better."
Review of Beth Hart's 2015 album Better Than Home.
Published by Blues Rock Review on April 10, 2015.
Ray Goren: Save My Soul EP Review
"Not since Quinn Sullivan released his debut album Cyclone in 2011 at the tender age of 11 have we seen a blues talent so young."
Review of Ray Goren's 2014 EP Save My Soul.
Published by Blues Rock Review on March 20, 2015.
Paul Cargnello: The Hardest Part Is You May Never Know Review
"On his latest 12-track album, released last November, Cargnello's teasing opening invites music brats from Boston to his stomping grounds in Montreal and all around the world to venture into his sonic enclave once more and surrender static genre classifications to fluid interpretations of musical pairings."
Review of Paul Cargnello's 2014 album The Hardest Part Is You May Never Know.
Published by Blues Rock Review on March 9, 2015.
Hanni El Khatib: Moonlight Review
"On this bombastic follow-up to his 2013 sophomore album, Khatib invites listeners to dive into his signature garage rock style with lead single 'Moonlight,' a track full of the fuzz and swagger heard on Head in the Dirt and 2011's Will the Guns Come Out."
Review of Hanni El Khatib's latest album Moonlight, released in January 2015.
Published by Blues Rock Review on February 25, 2015.
Davy Knowles: The Outsider Review
"Comprised of 11 official songs and two bonus tracks, the album pays homage to several of Knowles's influences, from his homeland ("Island Bound") to Woody Guthrie (bonus track "Pastures of Plenty," a Guthrie original). Featuring the strong vocals and expert guitar stewardship Knowles gained attention for through performances at popular American festivals like Coachella and Bonnaroo, Knowles's new album shows that, title aside, his music is prized among fans and attractive to new listeners."
Review of Davy Knowles's second solo album The Outsider, released independently in late 2014.
Published by Blues Rock Review on February 10, 2015.
Richie Kotzen: Cannibals Review
"Richie Kotzen is a music-making machine. Twenty solo records, formerly part of the bands Poison and Mr. Big, ongoing work with the power trio the Winery Dogs, frequent touring—Kotzen does it all."
Review of Richie Kotzen's 20th solo record Cannibals, out January 2015.
Published by Blues Rock Review on January 28, 2015.
Altered Five Blues Band: Cryin’ Mercy Review
"Altered Five have fun with their music: they maintain strong rhythms and stick to a contemporary blues sound, but rules of form and sound don't get in their way. Instead, Altered Five let their music evolve as they play, giving tracks like 'Counterfeit Lover' and 'Who's Your Lover' a live feel."
Review of Altered Five Blues Band's third album Cryin' Mercy, released October 2014.
Published by Blues Rock Review on January 12, 2015.
JW-Jones: Belmont Boulevard Review
"The emotion present on 'Coming After Me' and the impressive soloing on 'Watch Your Step' make these tracks two of Jones's best, though 'Magic West Side Boogie' and 'Cocaine Boy' are also remarkable for the fun-loving and somber intensity they alternately provide."
Review of Belmont Boulevard, released in October by Canadian bluesman JW-Jones.
Published by Blues Rock Review on December 23, 2014.
Indigenous feat. Mato Nanji: Time Is Coming Review
"Though more familiar than innovative, Time Is Coming is a substantial collection that speaks to Nanji's musical talent and sincere understanding of the blues."
Review of Time is Coming, the 10th studio album by Indigenous released May 2014.
Published by Blues Rock Review on July 28, 2014.
Royal Southern Brotherhood: HeartSoulBlood Review
"Exhibiting fluid transitions within each number and a solid collaborative element overall, HeartSoulBlood is evidence of the positive effects serious touring can have on a group."
Review of Royal Southern Brotherhood's second studio album HeartSoulBlood, released June 2014.
Published by Blues Rock Review on July 8, 2014.
Rival Sons: Great Western Valkyrie Review
"Great Western Valkyrie delivers in every way a Rival Sons album is known to: it's fresh and edgy for the modern rock fan, complete with the thoughtful lyricism and brilliant musicianship that have made Rival Sons stand out from the very beginning."
Review of Rival Sons' fourth full-length album Great Western Valkyrie, released June 10, 2014.
Published by Blues Rock Review on June 18, 2014.
Claude Hay: Live at the Clarendon Review
"Award-winning folk and blues musician Claude Hay is known around the world for the resourceful performance style that has made his music so unique. A solo artist at heart, Hay's utilization of looping pedals and electronic drum kits enable him to personally control each instrument for the duration of each song he records in the studio."
Review of Claude Hay's 2014 live album Live at the Clarendon.
Published by Blues Rock Review on June 12, 2014.
Pinnick Gales Pridgen: PGP 2 Review
"PGP 2 is energetic and ambitious, a dynamic creation by musicians whose high performance levels are simply second nature."
Review of Pinnick Gales Pridgen's second studio album PGP 2, expected out July 8, 2014.
Published by Blues Rock Review on June 4, 2014.
Well Hung Heart: Go Forth and Multiply Review
"This spring, SoCal rockers Well Hung Heart welcomed the release of their second album Go Forth and Multiply, an 11-song collection that encompasses the volume- and tempo-demanding garage rock style the band lives by."
Review of Well Hung Heart's second album Go Forth and Multiply, released spring of 2014.
Published by Blues Rock Review on May 9, 2014.
Lake Street Dive: Bad Self Portraits Review
"With vocals that recall Susan Tedeschi's brimming style and a comprehensive sound with a natural flow and jive, Lake Street Dive have an edge that is making them one of 2014's biggest new discoveries."
Review of Lake Street Dive's latest album Bad Self Portraits, released February 2014.
Published by Blues Rock Review on April 14, 2014.
Florian Hofer: Reaching Review
"Hofer reveals his songwriting skills early on the record with "Why," a track that contemplates the struggles of life over a wah-wah pedal-laden background. Written in reaction to a hazardous plane ride over the Atlantic Ocean, Hofer becomes the exemplar songwriter on this track as he considers the impact of such an experience on not just his own life, but on the thoughts and actions of those around him."
Review of Florian Hofer's debut album Reaching, released February 28, 2014.
Published by Blues Rock Review on February 13, 2014.
Paul Rodgers: The Royal Sessions Review
"Emerging from the iconic Royal Studios in Memphis, Tennessee is The Royal Sessions, a new collection of blues and soul classics invigorated by none other than Paul Rodgers. From "Born Under a Bad Sign" to "I Can't Stand the Rain," Rodgers breathes new life into songs deeply ingrained in the history of American music."
Review of Paul Rodgers' latest solo effort The Royal Sessions, released in February 2014.
Published by Blues Rock Review on February 4, 2014.
Innes Sibun: Lost in the Wilderness Review
"Based in Bath, England, Sibun's name has yet to gain the star power of other prominent guitarists marching blues into the 21st century, but his credentials are eye-popping nevertheless. Aside from playing in Robert Plant's band, Sibun has opened for some of rock's most influential guitarists, including Johnny Winter, Taj Mahal, and Peter Green. On his latest solo record Lost in the Wilderness, Sibun steps into the lauded role of the guitar hero, lending his own flair to the tradition he carries forward."
Review of Innes Sibun's 2014 album Lost in the Wilderness.
Published by Blues Rock Review on January 16, 2014.
The Winery Dogs: The Winery Dogs Review
"Championed by three skillful musicians and stocked with performances that only serve to demonstrate the group's combined musical expertise, The Winery Dogs leaves the listener gratified, with only one as-yet unanswered question in mind: where will Kotzen, Sheehan and Portnoy take their music next?"
Review of the Winery Dogs' debut 2013 album The Winery Dogs.
Published by Blues Rock Review on November 4, 2013.
Philip Morgan Lewis: Karma Comedown EP Review
"Featuring a touch of folk, a hint of country and an ample helping of slide guitar and studio fuzz, Karma Comedown blends decades of influences together to stand as one concise work, a product of one individual's creative vision and the musical history that made it possible."
Review of Philip Morgan Lewis' 2013 EP Karma Comedown.
Published by Blues Rock Review on September 25, 2013.
Samantha Fish: Black Wind Howlin’ Review
"Produced by Royal Southern Brotherhood co-founder Mike Zito and featuring the talents of Paul Thorn, Johnny Sansone, Bo Thomas and Royal Southern Brotherhood band mates Charlie Wooton and Yonrico Scott, Black Wind Howlin' is chock-full of talent from some of modern blues' best. Fish earned writing credits on 11 of the album's 12 tracks, but for "Who's Been Talking?" she offers a nod to Howlin' Wolf in a harmonica-heavy track that sounds more like a classic itself than a tribute."
Review of Samantha Fish's 2013 album Black Wind Howlin'.
Published by Blues Rock Review on September 5, 2013.
Graveyard Lovers: Dreamers Review
"Dreamers takes listeners on a journey from ballad to rocker and calm folk to aggressive rock, traversing tempos and styles in the pursuit of a substantial musical sampling."
Review of Graveyard Lovers' 2013 debut album Dreamers.
Published by Blues Rock Review on August 22, 2013.
Jack J Hutchinson: Feathers and Fools Review
"Hutchinson exists as a simultaneous echo of the past and glimpse into the future. With modern jam band revivals forcefully popping up in both the U.S. and the UK, Hutchinson's ability to alternate between singer/songwriter and adaptable session player gives him an edge over other artists struggling to latch permanent tags to their work."
Review of Jack J. Hutchinson's 2013 album Feathers and Fools.
Published by Blues Rock Review on August 7, 2013.
The Local Legends: Queens Will Review
"In the span of ten tracks, the quartet reveals classic rock influences from Eric Clapton to Pearl Jam, maneuvers the double-edged sword of maintaining a raw sound and weaves a few catchy riffs and choruses in for good measure."
Review of the Local Legends' 2013 album Queens Will.
Published by Blues Rock Review on July 26, 2013.
Robert Randolph & The Family Band: Lickety Split Review
"Through all of the styles present on Lickety Split, funk and gospel reign as the two leading sources of inspiration for Robert Randolph & the Family Band. The album's first single "Born Again" serves as a perfect example: featuring the voices of a full choir steeped in the dueling tempos of Robert Randolph's guitar and Morgan's bass, "Born Again" is evidence of a funk, gospel and jam band all rolled into one."
Review of Robert Randolph & the Family Band's 2013 album Lickety Split.
Published by Blues Rock Review on July 10, 2013.
"Stepping out of the shadows with their debut full-length record is Leogun, a three-piece rock band that has been turning heads in their native London and around the U.S. since signing with Yamaha Entertainment Group in 2012. Influenced by blues-based acts of the past and present from Led Zeppelin to Jack White, Leogun present a formidable energy on By the Reins that is well matched in the explosive performances they offer audiences in live settings."
Review of Leogun's debut 2013 album By the Reins.
Published by Blues Rock Review on June 19, 2013.
Slick: Strong Enough EP Review
"Merging an ample musical survey in the style of 1970s rock with the effortless speed of late '70s punk, Slick step forward on their debut EP as a young band with an intriguing sound."
Review of Slick's 2013 debut EP Strong Enough.
Published by Blues Rock Review on June 4, 2013.
Cody Beebe and the Crooks: Out Here Review
"More a cocktail of diverse musical styles than a straightforward blues record, Out Here offers a unique range of sounds individualized to the tastes of each band member."
Review of Cody Beebe & the Crooks' 2013 album Out Here.
Published by Blues Rock Review on May 13, 2013.
Deap Vally: Get Deap! EP Review
"Don't let the Mumford & Sons connection fool you—unlike their folksy tour buddies, Deap Vally's Lindsey Troy and Julie Edwards are more Joan Jett than Joan Baez. Packing the power of a modern Led Zeppelin with the shock value of a musical Thelma and Louise (both noted band influences), Deap Vally stand at the helm of a sound and style that can be somewhat polarizing at first listen, if only because they prefer music with a live feel over any sanded-down alternatives."
Review of Deap Vally's 2013 debut EP Get Deap!.
Published by Blues Rock Review on April 29, 2013.
Ana Popovic: Can You Stand the Heat Review
"Blues, powerful vocals and a hint of jazz: Ana Popovic must be back. The three-time 2012 Blues Music Awards nominee returns this spring with Can You Stand the Heat, a project that signals Popovic's search for an edgier sound with an instrumental range that went largely unexplored on previous recordings."
Review of Ana Popovic's 2013 album Can You Stand the Heat.
Published by Blues Rock Review on April 26, 2013.
Pam Taylor Band: Hot Mess Review
"Channeling the power of countless female blues vocalists who came before her, Pam Taylor achieves a sense of might and determination through her voice alone that, when coupled with the professional skill of her band, makes this group's debut anything but a hot mess."
Review of Pam Taylor Band's 2013 album Hot Mess.
Published by Blues Rock Review on April 15, 2013.
"Dreaming Free was released on March 22 by Anthem Falls Music, an independent label that Bora York's founding member Chris Bartels stands at the helm of. With his wife Rebekah and their band mates Charlie Wirth, Brian Seidel, Bjorn Nilsen and Jamie Kauppi, Bora York is quickly emerging as a force to reckon with in the dream-pop arena."
Review of Bora York's 2013 debut album Dreaming Free.
Published by 1146miles.com on April 5, 2013.
Hanni El Khatib: Head in the Dirt Review
"Coupling sonic fuzz with a rebel rocker sensibility, Los Angeles-based Hanni El Khatib approaches his sophomore album buttressed by the vigor heard on his 2011 debut Will the Guns Come Out and a refined sound that places his new record on a level playing field with today's best in blues rock."
Review of Hanni El Khatib's 2013 album Head in the Dirt.
Published by Blues Rock Review on April 4, 2013.
The Heavy Heavy Hearts: Dirty Lies EP Review
"Talk about a powerful debut. Los Angeles' newest blues-infused band the Heavy Heavy Hearts have arrived, and their debut EP Dirty Lies is enough to make any rock 'n roll enthusiast take notice."
Review of the Heavy Heavy Hearts' 2012 debut EP Dirty Lies.
Published by Blues Rock Review on March 27, 2013.
Chris Duarte Group: My Soul Alone Review
"Named the "Best New Talent" in a 1995 poll published by Guitar Player, Duarte is still shining the gloss on the skill that listeners first saw and heard in him years ago. My Soul Alone is an enjoyable listen from start to finish an embodiment of the kind of soulful blues rock that sheds light on the band's creative process through the finished recordings."
Review of the Chris Duarte Group's 2013 album My Soul Alone.
Published by Blues Rock Review on March 18, 2013.
Harlis Sweetwater Band: Lights Goin’ Down Review
"Through the embellishment of traditional blues riffs with a sonorous brass section, the Harlis Sweetwater Band delivers a feisty musical experience on Lights Goin' Down that makes for a solid debut record."
Review of Harlis Sweetwater Band's 2013 debut album Lights Goin' Down.
Published by Blues Rock Review on March 13, 2013.
Evan Watson: Midnight Oil Review
"After experimenting with recording and producing as a solo artist on his 2011 EP South, Watson launches into Midnight Oil as a studio professional with a trove full of stories and a sound drenched in the sweet blend of blues and Americana roots."
Review of Evan Watson's 2013 album Midnight Oil.
Published by Blues Rock Review on February 27, 2013.
Telegraph Taboo a Successful Debut for Nick and the Ovorols
"Though Nick and the Ovorols have only been making music together since mid-2011, Telegraph Taboo shows a band that plays together masterfully and has clearly found its niche in the music world."
Review of Nick and the Ovorols' 2013 album Telegraph Taboo.
Published by 1146miles.com on February 26, 2013.
Devon Allman: Turquoise Review
"After spending much of his adult life on the road as the driving force behind his bands Honeytribe and Royal Southern Brotherhood, Devon Allman is finally taking a moment to step back and reflect on it all. The result is Turquoise, Allman's first solo album mixed by the Grammy award-winning producer Jim Gaines that doubles as an autobiographical narrative put to music."
Review of Devon Allman's 2013 album Turquoise.
Published by Blues Rock Review on February 7, 2013.
"The San Diego five-piece band the Tilt is bringing the swing and grind of blues at its best back to the West Coast. Staking out a distinctive sound that they describe as a mash-up between blues and outlaw country, the Tilt's music is both innovative and traditional."
Review of the Tilt's 2013 album Howlin'.
Published by Blues Rock Review on January 28, 2013.
The Killers Return with Battle Born
"Battle Born is a progressive next step for the Killers, reflective and mature even as it retains the grand flourishes and heavy synth trademarks the band is known for."
Review of the Killers' 2012 album Battle Born.
Published by the San Diego Reader on December 14, 2012.
Rival Sons Return with Explosive New Album
"Say it with me: Rival Sons. Get used to the name, because odds are good you'll be hearing it often in the coming years."
Review of Rival Sons' 2012 album Head Down.
Published by 1146miles.com on September 19, 2012.
The Sheepdogs Release Debut Self-Titled Album
"First on the radar for engrossing September releases is the Sheepdogs, a band that's bringing the boogie back through their feel-good contributions to Southern rock."
Review of the Sheepdogs' self-titled 2012 album.
Published by the San Diego Reader on September 6, 2012.
"Genre infusions, guest appearances and Vai's trademark talent all surround an exquisite musical and lyrical narrative, the breadth of which will remain a mystery until Vai unveils his third and final album in the series at some point in the future."
Review of Steve Vai's 2012 album The Story of Light.
Published by 1146miles.com on August 21, 2012.
"Genre classification is a very tricky thing in music—with a seemingly endless supply of genres and sub-genres available to help mold our interpretations of albums and singles, it's no wonder so many bands resist being pigeonholed into such narrow categories. Enter Ponderosa."
Review of Ponderosa's 2012 album Pool Party.
Published by 1146miles.com on August 1, 2012.
Rising Star: Tyler Bryant & the Shakedown
"Get ready to clear a path through today's sludge of auto-tuned vocals and repetitive refrains. There's an emerging guitar god in our midst, and it's just a matter of time before he flips the rock 'n' roll switch back on."
Review of Tyler Bryant & the Shakedown's debut EP From the Sandcastle.
Published by 1146miles.com on July 28, 2012.
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