CD Review
Eric Sardinas
Devil's Train
(Evidence Records ECD 26116-2)
by Dick Houff
Review date: October 2001
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1999 KBA Award Winner
Achievement for Blues on the Internet
Presented by the Blues Foundation
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Well folks, the waiting is over. This is the follow-up to "Treat Me Right," Eric's 1999, and critically acclaimed debut with Evidence Records. Devil's Train, is a thirteen track killer with eleven originals, including a beautiful duet with David "Honeyboy" Edwards.
Eric Sardinas is a thirty-one year old slide master with his own unique style. He plays electric Dobro's that are specifically designed for him-a smart move. I do the same thing with my resonators. Eric beats the living hell out of his instruments, and takes them to the limit. Listen to his fret work and slams behind the slide; most instruments
separate at the bridge or the cone lifts causing all kinds of havoc-including buzzes and rattles. Oh, I forgot to mention busted strings from the steel picks and stressful tunings. By looking at Eric's tour schedule and the countless one-nighters in L.A. (about a ten
year stint) is living proof that he possesses much wisdom. He has earned the respect in a genre where you are pretty much ignored until you hit fifty-and that's the truth. Eric Sardinas has toured throughout the U.S., Europe, Australia, and Asia. He has giged with John (we miss you) Lee Hooker, B.B. King, Otis Rush, Johnny Winter, George (another
shredder!) Thorogood, and many other greats. On "Devil's Train," you are in for one hell of a ride! Talk about explosive blues-based rock, this guy hits your nerve center with a lightening bolt right from the beginning with "Piece Of Me!" This is the song you want open a show with-tough and gritty, one of my favorites! The following song-again-in your face; checkout the opening percussion; a very nice touch and kudos for "My Sweet Time!" On track three, he takes the classic 12 bar boogie into another realm, "Texola" is the perfect instrumental where Eric can strut his stuff-very cool. His relentless pace continues on 4, 5, 6 (a nice homage for Elmore James), and 7. At the halfway mark Dave "Honeyboy" Edwards, and Eric share the spotlight-this one touched my heart. The interplay and dialogue is beyond words. The following songs continue in the same mode as you fall
back into Eric's world. Devil's Train, Be Your Man, Sidewinder (another over the above instrumental). The finale, "8 Goin' South" is absolutely stunning-another side of Eric Sardinas, -the perfect ending. This disc is top drawer.
This review is copyright © 2001 by Dick Houff, and Blues On Stage, all rights reserved. Copy, duplication or download prohibited without written permission. For permission to use this review please send an E-mail to Ray Stiles.
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