Tired Of Talkin’
Stony Plain, 2021
8/10
The Canadian bluesman Steve Strongman released this album in 2019, but it didn’t see the push it deserved. Now signed to the Stony Plain label, Tired Of Talkin’ sees a global reissue where his intricate guitar playing, inviting vocals and timeless song craft are shared with a much wider audience.
Strongman leads with the title track, where his seasoned vocals guide the bluesy, rhythmic rocker that recruits piano acrobatics and some humor, and “Paid My Dues” follows with spirited harmonica in the soulful, powerful atmosphere.
Close to the middle, “Can’t Have It All” sizzles with a festive spirit that will get your body moving to the playful climate that benefits from Strongman’s precise guitar work, and “Tell Me Like It Is” follows with a calmer but no less impactful delivery of emotive and stirring blues. “That Kind Of Fight”, the album’s best, then offers an acoustic tune where Strongman’s strong songwriting prowess is on display amid the bare beauty.
Deeper yet, “Highway Man”, another tune with just Strongman and a guitar, displays topical wordplay in these troubled times alongside a Delta blues swagger, and “Let’s Stay Together”, an Al Green song, showcases his versatile pipes in a romantic finish.
This is Strongman’s 7th studio album, and in his home country he’s already picked up plenty of awards and just as much well deserved praise. Now with Stony Plain backing him, it won’t be long until his name is synonymous with the blues around the globe, too.
Travels well with: Rory Block- Prove It On Me; Ronnie Earl & The Broadcasters- Rise Up