I just had the opportunity to review the most recent release,
Hard Workin' Man, from
Andrew Alli and it's a solid slice of blues. Opening with title track,
Hard Workin' Man, a great blues number sounds like it's right out of the Elmore James songbook. Andrew Alli, who covers vocals and harmonica shows all of the raw edge of old school blues. Backed by Jon Atkinson on guitar, Carl Sonny Leyland on piano, Danny Michael on guitar and Devin Neal on drums, this is a super opener.
AA Boogie is a real foot stomper and gives Alli a great platform to blow his harp. Excellent! With a Latin rhythm,
Going Down South is a cool blues number with what sounds like Alli singing through his harp mic, answered with his harp. Cool slide work by Atkinson gives the track a warmup and Alli joins back with raw harp tones. Very nice. Walter Horton's,
Walter's Sun is a great instrumental with fleet fingered guitar work and particularly nice harp riffs. 30 Long Years is a really nice, slower blues with great depth. This is authentic stuff here and between the strong guitar riffs, and the rich harp and vocal work by Alli, how could you want more!
Chron-A-Thick is another instrumental blast with really strong harp playing. Alli is really cooking on this one...sit back and enjoy! Up tempo,
Easy Going Man, has a great groove with strong guitar accents. Alli's vocals are clean and clear on this one and Atkinson's guitar literally sings. Alli has a choke hold on his harp and he isn't letting go. Michael's guitar work is tight and straight adding nicely to the track. Very very nice! Wrapping the release is
So Long, a cool Chicago style shuffle. Leyland steps up on piano with a nice rhythm and again really nicely phrased guitar soloing. Alli carries the track on his solid vocals and strong harp playing. This is a really cool release. If you love pure electric blues, this is your ticket.
“Like” Bman’s Facebook page and get support for your favorite band or venue - click
