Paradise Kings - Controlled Burn - (Self-released)
This Santa Barbara foursome wastes no time in getting the dance floor packed as the record begins with a rockabilly blues called "'69 Chevy," a real barn burner that's literally impossible to sit still for. The Fabulous Thunderbirds-recalling "Butter Me Up" finds the band in a funky mood, the strutting and amusing "I'd Sing the Blues if I Had 'Em" features singer Henry Garrett reeling off a litany of common complaints that belies the song title, and "Poor Me, Poor Me, Pour Me Another Drink" is a boogie that once again heads for the dance floor. A solid and fun set all the way through.
Delta Wires - Born in Oakland - (Mudslide)
This big seven-piece band has been honing their chops for some 30-odd years, so everything here is note perfect, and on opening cut "Sunny Day" singer (and harp player) Ernie Pinata's vocals and the band's backing groove perfectly channel the buzz of a bright and carefree day. "Vacation" has a different vibe; it's not about being on vacation but rather needing one, with Pinata's harmonica, Richard Healy's guitar picking and the band's three-man horn section stressing the point. Other highlights include the yearning "Your Eyes" and "Devil's in My Headset" but the bouncy "Fun Time" probably sums up this album the best, both musically and in title.
Share this article
Mother's Day Gift Guide Part 2
Mother's Day Gift Guide Part 1
Root 66: New Riders of the Purple Sage- Gene Clark- More
Robert Plant, Yes and Willie Nelson Among Stars Coming to Ozarks Amphitheater
Live: Heart and Cheap Trick Rock Tampa
AC/DC Reveal 2nd Batch Of 50th Anniversary Reissues
Rush Star Geddy Lee And Alex Lifeson Have Been Jamming Band's Classic Songs
Motley Crue Share Video From Secret Intimate Show
Prince's Cloud 3 Guitar Highlights Julien's Auctions Music Icons
Yes Legend Jon Anderson and The Band Geeks Announce New Album 'TRUE'
Kittie Announce 'Fire' Album With 'Vultures' Video
KING 810 Reveal First Episode Of 'Under The Black Rainbow' Episodic Film Series
Big Head Todd And Ben Harper Lead Blues from the Top Music Festival Lineup