Roy Rogers doesn't just toy with the slide guitar. Nor is he a wailing-out-of-control slide player. Far from it, this Bay Area bottleneck guitar maestro is very much an in-control albeit high-energy player. He proves it on every minute of his new 13 all-original track, all-instrumental CD. Born in Redding, California in 1950, he began playing guitar at age twelve. Four years later his older brother brought home a Robert Johnson album. These classic recordings had a profound effect on young Roy. He went on to discover Elmore James, 'and at that minute I was into slide playing.' He formed his own band, the Delta Rhythm Kings, in 1980 and two years later was asked to join John Lee Hooker's Band. During the next four years he toured with Hooker as a featured guitarist/vocalist and in 1985 he released his first solo album.
The sliding begins with a Hooker inspired boogie called "Avalanche". "No Destination" and "Smoke & Mirrors" are contemporary grooves that are hip and in the vein of Blues Traveler, Gov't Mule and the North Mississippi Allstars. The big sound of Roy's '58 Les Paul Jr is not to be missed on these tracks. Don't be surprised if you come home and find your teenagers cranking out these tunes. "Razor's Edge" has a heavier rhythm than the rest of the disc. It is another number that exemplifies Rogers' forward thinking. Here, listeners will love the mix of velvety lap steel with callous electric slide. Zigaboo Modeliste's slick drumming is at the center of "Gumbo Funk". Everything else circles around the drum's distinctive beat/pattern. "Crescent Steps" features interesting timing. Here, Norton Buffalo's harp playing is adept while Roy struts on rhythm guitar. Even in this supporting role, Rogers manages to be the glue that bonds everyone together. "There Is Only You" should be blasting out on pop-rock radio. Its FM-friendly in an Eric Johnson vein. The song features a simple pattern but its ultra catchy especially when given a 2 guitar attack. Songs as good as this one are the reason why there are copyright laws! "Precious Moments" is also pop-ish but with a slower pace and a homey feel thanks to the unplugged backing of Phil Aaberg's harmonium.
Roy Rogers states, 'the musical ideas cover a wide range of grooves and melodies. The songs were recorded using different musicians on various tracks, which helped me to stretch out in new ways musically.' In a crowded world of similar sounded blues discs, this one is a welcome change of pace with an interesting theme. Thanks to the high quality of the songs and the proficient backing musicians, the listener's interest does not dwindle. The tunes are destined to become classics in multiple genres. Then again, if its real blues that you are in search of, let this one slide by.
For further information, contact: Evidence Music Inc., 1110 E. Hector Street, Suite 392, Conshohocken, PA 19428 USA Tel: (610) 832-0844 Email: evidencemusic@aol.com
Artist website: www.roy-rogers.com
Simply click on the CD cover at left to order this CD NOW!
This review is copyright © 2002 by Tim Holek, and Blues On Stage at: www.mnblues.com, all rights reserved. Copy, duplication or download prohibited without written permission.
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