Still Cookin’
VizzTone, 2020
8/10
An outfit who have been active since the ‘90s and who have picked up many awards since then, while they are probably most known for being the touring band for Taj Mahal, the Phantom Blues Band certainly know how to pen their own albums, too, as Still Cookin’ has the 6 members working together with both originals and covers.
“Don’t Fight It” starts the listen with a classic blues approach as keys, guitar and soulful vocals guide the playful and powerful start, and “Stop Runnin’” follows with a cautious spirit as organs and horns interact with much appeal.
In the middle, “Blues How They Linger” trims the pace back with a bare piano tune where a soothing quality enters, while “Shine On” goes the opposite direction with an upbeat and full display of timeless song craft that even brings in some reggae. “Tequila Con Yerba”, one of liveliest tracks, then offers a rhythmic and exciting cultured setting that you can’t help but move your body to.
Closer the end, “Fess On Up” brings a brass heavy and highly melodic album highlight that you’ll be singing along to instantly, and “I Was Blind” ends the listen sparse, with plenty of emotion amid soft-rock influences.
This 4th album from the ensemble mixes gospel, R&B, Latin sounds, southern rock’n’roll and, of course, blues in their inimitable formula, as their vast skill and experience solidifies Still Cookin’ as a truly exceptional record.
Travels well with: Bob Margolin- This Guitar And Tonight; Rick Vito- Soulshaker