Although
Joe Beard is a country-based bluesman and fellow guitarist
Ronnie Earl (who brought along his Broadcasters for this set) is strictly city, they work together quite well. The emphasis is often on
Beard's expressive vocals (which sometimes look toward
John Lee Hooker and
Lightnin' Hopkins but display their own personality).
Beard and
Earl contribute contrasting guitar solos, pianist-organist
Bruce Katz fuels a grooving rhythm section, tenor saxophonist
David "Fathead" Newman has a couple of cameos and the harmonica of Joe Dubuc is a strong asset on three songs. Even with its nods toward the past, this release is a fine example of blues in the mid-'90s. ~ Scott Yanow