The Answer is a four-piece band out of County Down, Northern Ireland. If you’re a big fan of hard rock but haven’t heard of them yet, then it’s a good thing you’re reading this. Though many rock bands come along boasting a vintage, classic sound that’s saturated in everything rock ‘n’ roll, it’s usually a gross exaggeration to aid in their marketing hyperbole. However, The Answer is the real deal. The band’s first CD, Rise, released back in 2006, and repackaged and rereleased as a 2-CD set a year later, is without a doubt some of the best rock music issued on disc in years. Unfortunately, news of genuine rock having limited reach these days, it appears it still hasn’t penetrated the brawny walls of the rock listening majority. Though they’ve opened shows for the likes of the Stones, the Who, and Deep Purple, the CD is still one of rock’s best kept secrets, which is downright sinful actually... Continue reading "CD Review: Rise (2-CD Special Edition) - The Answer"

Walter Trout explodes into bluesrock rebellion on his 2008 CD, The Outsider (Megaforce Records), in a way fans crave from the radical who states, “The blues shouldn’t be a museum. It should expand and be alive.” Not only is the new album abundant in that approach, it also has a rebel rouser theme throughout, one that anyone who has ever been on the outside of authority and power can ardently relate to. Ain’t that the blues?... Continue reading "CD Review: The Outsider - Walter Trout"

Carry the Light is the new release from Kentucky native Kelly Richey. Though a blues-rocker in essence, one who’s opened for Clarence “Gatemouth” Brown and shared the stage with Albert King, Kelly Richey’s style here is more contemporary rock than anything else. Though Carry the Light encircles the blues more than enters it, a blues ambiance persists throughout, especially in her guitar playing approach. It blazes a scorching trail throughout most of the album... Continue reading "CD Review: Carry the Light - Kelly Richey"

Back Door Slam released Roll Away about a year ago. That said, the problem with new rock music, especially material reminiscent of a classic '70s sound, is that it’s lucky to get any recognition at all these days. Though this one almost slipped by me, a friend and colleague informed me of it about a month ago, and I must say, I’m truly grateful to have been alerted to it. Labeling rock music as ‘classic,’ or ‘70s’ in style, can give people the wrong impression at times, because those definitions are often synonymous with old-fashioned, or even passé. The thing is, classic rock has become a genre of its own over the past few years, and much of the music put into that category is as innovative and contemporary as '70s rock music was and still is. Moreover, although it possesses the energy aspect of classic rock, it’s always extremely melodic, an attribute that’s often lacking in today’s rock. Most of all, the musicianship really kicks ass, with guitar playing that’s abundant in addictive licks, interesting chord arrangements, and soaring lead solos... Continue reading "CD Review: Roll Away - Back Door Slam"

With a title that possesses ostentatious significance, Michael Burks’ Iron Man is potent blues by a powerful performer. He’s the real deal as a guitar player, vocalist, and composer. Although it may seem as though the ghost of Albert King had taken over his body and jammed a Gibson Flying V into his hands, Burks is quite unique in most respects. Moreover, it’s exciting to hear a modern day performer embellish the blues with such enthusiasm and power these days... Continue reading "CD Review: Iron Man - Michael Burks"

Pat Metheny Group recently released Imaginary Day Live on DVD. Essentially a rerelease from Eagle Rock Entertainment, it was filmed live at the Mountain Winery in Saratoga, California, on July 21-23, 1998. It’s a magnificent concert presentation, not only of the Pat Metheny six-string prowess, but of the skill of the entire band. They’re a jazz super group for sure. Being the Imaginary Day Tour, of course, most of the music is from that particular 1997 Metheny Group release, with a few other additions to make it a complete concert experience. Pat walks out onstage to a warm introduction and acknowledges the crowd with his familiar, friendly smile. He then engages his 42-stringed ‘Pikasso guitar’ for a mind blowing rendition of “Into The Dream.” A world music extravaganza of many modes soon transpires, of many guitars as well, as the Metheny concert experience becomes a magnificent journey and tour-de-force spectacle... Continue reading "DVD Review: Imaginary Day Live - Pat Metheny Group"