Born in Trinidad and based in Canada, championed by the late Jeff Healey and a one-time accompanist to David Bowie, singer, guitarist and band-leader Wild T (a.k.a. Tony Springer) does not have the 'standard' blues background - but then there's not much standard about his brand of blues, either (and yes, I am aware there is a precedent for the Bowie connection). His music is actually better described as blues-rock, although as that term tends to be used for those who use a sledgehammer to crack a nut, neither is that totally appropriate. Although Wild T can indeed be loud and proud (try 'Dangerous' for a riff-rocker), he is also a subtle player, introducing elements drawing on such varied sources as late seventies and early eighties jazz-funk - there is a strong George Benson-ish sound on 'Love's Holiday' and in several places elsewhere - the more mellow side of Eric Clapton, acoustic singer-songwriters, and even the slightest hint of rap on 'You're The One', in addition to the more expected Hendrix-inspired sounds and blues-rockers of the last few decades. We are at track 6, 'Jenny' before encountering anything like a straight 12 bar blues - but the entire album is of course thoroughly and unarguably blues-drenched. Tony's backing musicians are totally in synch with his approach, particularly organist Peter Nunn. Completists should also note that the aforementioned Jeff Healey guests on 'Can't Get You (Outta My Mind), supplying some distinctive guitar playing.

Wild T's vocals are also worthy of note too - again, there may be a slight trace of Hendrix, but for the most part he is hip and cool, neither a full-bodied soul man nor an out-and-out rock singer. It is a voice that suits his individual take on the blues, and his intelligent, original compositions. Lovers of the rockier end of the blues spectrum should certainly investigate.

www.wildt.ca www.bullseyecanada.com

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