John The Revelator
Checkerboard Lounge, 2020
8/10
The Vermont bluesman John Fusco returns with a sophomore effort where his X-Road Riders companions are on hand to help flesh out a double album that came about after some spontaneous jam sessions with Cody Dickinson (North Mississippi Allstars).
“John The Revelator” starts the listen with plenty of atmosphere as bluesy guitars enter the raw setting, and “Baker Man” follows with a harmonica complementing the soulful and spontaneous delivery that’s not short on grit.
With 20 tracks included, the ensemble never wear out their welcome with the bouncy spirit and female vocals of the melodic rocker “Don’t Mess Up A Good Thing”, while “Applejack Brandy” moves with bare, powerful, rugged balladry that’s a heartfelt love song. “Bad Dog”, the highlight of disc 1, then glides with expressive singing alongside plenty of soul and slow burning darkness that’s beaming with creativity.
Disc 2 is full of fine sounds, too, most noteworthy the organ and horn playfulness of the funk friendly “Hottest Part Of The Flame”, and the vocally strong, Chicago blues of “Fools Fire”, where the intricate guitar work leaves an indelible impression. “Moonstone Lady”, a late listen highlight, then brings a gospel angle to the listen with a flawless and dynamic execution. “The Sun Also Rises” finishes out the listen with a fuller deliver of retro rock ideas that takes nods to B.B. King.
Although Fusco might be better known as a screenwriter and TV series creator (Crossroads and Young Guns are on his resume, among many others), the natural born storyteller’s creativity glows in any medium, and benefits greatly from new X-Road Riders member Sarah Morrow’s trombone on this eclectic and authentic outpouring of thoughtful yet playful song craft.
Travels well with: North Mississippi Allstars- Up And Rolling; Patrick Sweany- Close To The Floor