Long As I Got My Guitar
Catfood, 2021
9/10
Listen to Long As I Got My Guitar
The Texas bluesman Zac Harmon does not disappoint on this 10 song effort, where the award winning artist handles lead guitar and lead vocals, and an excellent backing band and production from Jim Gaines (Santana, Steve Ray Vaughn) further cements this as some of Harmon’s best work to date.
“Deal With The Devil” starts the listen and makes an immediate impression with Harmon’s smooth singing and agile guitar lines as Richy Puga’s precise drumming sure does radiate, too, and “People Been Talking” follows with no shortage of rhythm and melody, where Dean Ferguson’s warm keys complement the soulful climate well.
At the midpoint, the breezy and upbeat “Love For You Baby” recruits soothing backing vocals on the romantic tune, while the title track displays Bob Trenchard’s precise bass playing amid the sturdy guitar and punchy drumming, “New Year’s Day” might be the album highlight, where Harmon’s diverse pipes flow alongside both power and cautiousness in his inimitable formula.
Approaching the end, “Imagine A Prayer” reels in a dreamy, ‘80s spirit that’s got hints of gospel in it, and “Ashes To The Wind” exits the listen with much beauty via the gentle backing vocals, Harmon’s cozy singing and much timeless emotion.
A native to the south, Harmon started playing professionally at age 16 and has played the role of studio musician and stand in guitarist for plenty of musicians coming through town. Where he truly shines, though, is at the front of the stage, where his booming and gripping voice draws you in to the diverse blues rock that rubs elbows with funk, soul and gospel on this absolutely outstanding record.
Travels well with: Bob Corritore & Friends- Spider In My Stew; Albert Castiglia- Wild And Free