You don't hear it much anymore but there was a popular catchphrase back in the '60s: "ass, gas or grass, nobody rides for free." Initially directed at hitchhikers, the saying eventually took on a wider meaning, but here there's little doubt as to which option is hoped for in "Ass, Gas or Grass," a swaggering blues rocker. The tune is one of five on this introductory EP from the band consisting of singer/guitarist Bo and the rhythm section of bassist Brian James and drummer J.J. Garcia. Also included are the Dickey Betts-like instrumental "Sea Song," the Dave Matthews-leaning "Walkin' in the Park" and another guitar-showcasing instrumental, the swingin' "Chillin'." Best of all is "Out on the Streets," a solid blues rocker that will sit well with Stevie Ray Vaughan fans.

Arthur James
Me, Myself & I
(Self-released)

As the album title hints at, this is a solo record in the true sense as James plays all the instruments and handles all vocals. The record starts with the delicately-picked instrumental "292 Nashua St." but James has an excellent bluesman's voice and quickly puts it to work on the John Lee Hooker-style boogie of "Blues, Blues, Blues" where he accompanies himself on both acoustic and electric guitars. "Long Black Road" is Muddy Waters-style Delta blues and a stand-out cut. Other highlights include the '70s-style acoustic protest song "Waiter There's a Bomb in My Soup," where James recalls Richie Havens, and a surprisingly inventive cover of "Kumbaya."

David King
Ruirteach Blues
(Self-released)