Blues
Known for his dazzling stage show, which is highlighted by all manner of leaps, somersaults, and other assorted guitar-playing gymnastics, Guitar Shorty on disc is generally a poor substitute, but he still radiates tremendous energy on this set from Alligator Records. His guitar playing is rich, deep, and heavy as plutonium on these tracks; his vocals are strong and soulful, and there's little doubt that after nearly 50 years in the blues business Shorty is still going strong. Working with a hard blues-rock combo that features Jake Andrews on rhythm guitar, Wyzard on bass, John Thomas on keyboards, and Alvino Bennett on drums, Shorty roars through these cuts like a train at full steam, and he sounds confident and assured, a Texas blues man completely on top of his game. Highlights include a blistering "Runaway Train," the metaphor-drenched "Fine Cadillac," and two powerful and topical Guitar Shorty originals, "We the People" and "Cost of Livin'," both of which address the economic duress that still creates poverty in the U.S. in the 21st century. In all, We the People is nicely balanced between hard rocking party numbers, straight out blues pieces, and strong political statement, making it a timeless and completely current blues record.
By Steve Leggett.
**
"I've been to hell and back, I'm still looking good / I've found the fountain of youth, I've got the blues in my blood," sings Guitar Shorty on "Blues in My Blood"--one of the more autobiographical tracks, albeit one he didn't write, on his second Alligator album in three years. After working for decades with little to show for it, Shorty makes up for lost time, charging through unapologetically tough blues rockers such as "Sonic Boom," "Can't Get Enough" (not the Bad Company tune), and "What Good Is Life?" with the rough-and-tumble enthusiasm of someone half his 67 years. There are few surprises here--Shorty's throaty voice pummels through these tunes, pausing only long enough to make room for his fat, fluid leads to slice into the powerhouse rhythm section. Subtlety is not Shorty's strong point, and even when he accompanies himself on "Cost of Livin'" with just guitar and a tapping foot, it sounds like he's a caged tiger before feeding time. The title track concerns the average laborer's tough life, but this is primarily a blues album tied to the usual subjects of nefarious women doing Shorty wrong. In fact, his ex's phone prefix in "I Got Your Number" is 666. But nobody need look for profound lyrical insights when Shorty slings his molten guitar, pouring his psychedelicized solos like lava over anything in his path. Just push play and get out of the way.
By Hal Horowitz.
**
You've heard the term real deal blues. Well, Guitar Shorty plays real deal blues/rock. The vast population likely does not know that Shorty represents them as a crusading spokesman, who sports a mean six-string. His tough style of music has been created and copied in the past. However, he presents it in a way that makes it feel new. All 12 songs are mostly upbeat and fast. Each seem to reflect something that's pent up deep inside him. However, Shorty will surely capture many rockers into the blues flock with this disc.
We The People does not contain the same old blues. It is loaded with rock edged music. The title track's catchy hook and wah wah splashes will generate ecstasy for baby boomers and Generation X'ers alike. Both will enjoy the song and performer's attitude, anger, and aggression. On Runaway Train, Shorty smacks and jabs with his guitar's notes and chords. Down That Road Again is a radio-friendly rock boogie where the guitar's articulate rhythm elicits zeal. Throughout, Shorty's guitar is in-your-face while his limited vocals are punchy. Together they consistently plow through you like a runaway train. Guitar Shorty stands apart from all other blues/rockers because he adds depth and meaning to his rebellious songs.
By Tim Holek.
**
Guitar Shorty- (Vocals, Guitar);
Jake Andrews- (Guitar);
Wyzard- (Acoustic Guitar, Electric Bass);
John Thomas- (Keyboards);
Alvino Bennett- (Drums).
**
01. We the People 4:20
02. What Good Is Life 4:04
03. I Got Your Number 3:53
04. Runaway Train 4:59
05. Down That Road Again 4:58
06. Fine Cadillac 5:51
07. Can't Get Enough 4:24
08. A Hurt So Old 3:56
09. Who Needs It? 3:22
10. Blues In My Blood 3:12
11. Cost of Livin' 4:11
12. Sonic Boom 3:13
**
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