Kell’s Kitchen
Songsurfer, 2024
8/10
The Canadian guitarist Shawn Kellerman brings a large cast of musicians to these 14 songs that continue his position as one of Canada’s most influential blues artists.
The rockin’ and animated “SKB” starts the listen with Terry Richardson’s playful bass complementing Kellerman’s gritty voice and lively guitar, and “Drivin’” follows with Van Romaine’s hard hitting drums that suit the dense blues flavor that’s both rugged and melodic.
Further along, Jason Ricci’s flowing harmonica enters the cautious spirit of “Hard Man To Please”, which builds into a punchy climate, while “Down By The River” brings a swampy spirit via Noah Allard’s expressive pipes.
Deeper yet, “Runnin’ Back To Saskatoon” benefits much from Dominic DiGravio’s keys, clav and synth programming for the rich blues rocker, and “Living Off The Love You Give” exits with Ray Podhornik’s soaring trumpet adding another dimension to the gospel nods of the timeless finish.
A highly eclectic affair that touches on funk, ska, southern ideas and rootsy nods from all over the spectrum, Kellerman’s enjoyed a 3 decade career, and he’s clearly not stopping anytime soon, thankfully.
Travels well with: Jeff Rogers- Dream Job; Leo Lyons- Movin’ On