Dusted Off
Self-Released, 2024
8/10
The New York singer-songwriter Dusty Wright fleshes out a covers album, where each interpretation is filtered through his folk, indie and Americana flavor.
“Little Black Egg” opens with Wright’s breezy guitar and smooth voice alongside Pete DeMeo’s frisky drumming for the folk-rock climate, and “Walk On The Wild Side” finds itself in dreamy territory thanks to Erik Deutsch’s skilled keys and the soft delivery.
In the middle, “Carmelita” benefits from Jonathan K. Bendis’ bass via the darker spirit of the Warren Zevon original, while “(I’m Not Your) Steppin’ Stone” lands in ‘D’ tuning via the lush take on the classic by The Monkees.
Later on, “High Heels Are Dangerous” enlists Kevin Mackall’s bass amid the thumping Americana that has Wright handling harmonica, and “4+20” sees Steve Candlen handling bass for a minimal but impactful exit.
We’ve all heard some of these tunes before, while others I think very few people have heard. Either way, Wright illuminates them with his own distinct vision that’s thoughtful, memorable and timeless.
Travels well with: Peter Holsapple- The Face Of 68; Bob Hillman & Spooky Ghost- Bob Hillman & Spooky Ghost