You never can tell about CD's that I get for reviews. Some show up with slick covers, and artwork that looks like a major label release with tons of money backing it. Others show up with ink jet artwork and inserts. The Texas Son CD artwork leaves something to be desired. Black print on a hand cut out blue or yellow insert with the basic information on each side. As far as artwork, this is about the lowest I have ever seen. That said, I can only say, as the old phrase goes, "you can't tell a book by it's cover!" The CD itself is very good with some great blues guitar and pretty darn good production for a self produced CD. I've received several CD's recently that had much better artwork and visual appeal that don't come up to this CD's musical standards.
I would describe the music as fairly traditional modern blues, not real rocking but in the solid bar blues style. The opening track 'Bare Handed Blues' reminds me a little of Jimmy Thackery or Tinsley Ellis on guitar. It's a groove driven guitar jam with enough colors to keep it interesting. 'I believe' is slide driven and Texas Son shows off his vocal ability which reminds me of Tinsley Ellis. Vocally, Texas Son is better than a lot of singers and his guitar playing is solid and generally good. 'Alberts Groove' is just what you think it would be, a tip of the hat to the famous bluesman. Texas Son doesn't overplay for sure. There are eleven songs on the CD even though the cover 'art' says ten so maybe that could be considered a bonus track.
If you like guitar driven blues with a bit more laid back semi traditional feel, then you should like Texas Son. If you like guitar playing, there's enough of that also. On this CD, you have to look past the cover art to the good music inside.
Contact:
Texas Son
P.O. Box 182
Groveland, NY 14462
Web site: www.texasonblues.com
Texas Son - vocals, guitar
Dave Dimarzio - bass guitar
Mark Lou Conti - Drums
Doc Lambert - Rhythm Guitar track 3,4,5, & 6
John Borrelli - Drums track 5
Johnny McMullen - Blues Harp track 2 & 9
Murf
http://personal.mco.bellsouth.net/~murf01/
This review is copyright © 2001 by Robert Murphy, 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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