Come Together
Modern Blues Harmonica, 2020
8/10
An album inspired by the Satan & Adam documentary on Netflix, Sir Rod saw the flick and quickly called up Adam Gussow, of The Blues Doctors, and the two started writing songs immediately. After adding Alan Gross- the other half of The Blues Doctors- on guitar for most of the tracks, and appearances from Jerry Jemmott on bass and Bryan M. Ward on vocals and bass, the outfit had a solid blues record for the world.
The title track starts the listen with spirited harmonica from Gussow as proficient blues guides the playful opener, and “Sacrificed Blues” continues the atmosphere with a percussively strong and gospel influenced setting where Rod’s pipe are sturdy and memorable.
Near the middle, the band put an infectious spin on the classic “I Got You (I Feel Good)”, as they mirror the intensity of James Brown, while “Little Red Rooster” recruits plenty of soul in the calmer waters where there’s much beauty. “So Mean”, one of the album’s best, then uses keys from Rod and Gussow’s harmonica strategically as the strong vocal work shines bright.
Closer to the end, “Freedom For My People” will get you dancing from your pew with its spiritual prowess and lively rhythm, and “What’d I Say” finishes off the listen with a Ray Charles tune where frisky drums and harmonica work well together to cultivate a firm groove you won’t forget.
An incredible release from a band who really formed on a whim, there’s a good mix of memorable originals and well done covers here, as the members prove why they’re considered the best of the best with their respective instruments on this versatile blues, frisky funk and often soulful adventure.
Travels well with: JW-Jones- Sonic Departures; JD Taylor- The Coldwater Sessions