Time Clocks
J&R, 2021
10/10
Even though he recently went undetected on To Tell The Truth, I think by now everybody is at least somewhat familiar with who Joe Bonamassa is. Although the guitarist and vocalist is just in his middle 40’s, he’s released 45+ records now, and here this 15th studio album has him heading into raw rock territory with his robust blues influences at the surface amid quite possibly some of his best singing to date.
“Pilgrimage” gets the listen off to a soulful and warm start, as Bonamassa’s intricate guitar is met with some light ambience, and this segues into the powerful and thick blues rocker “Notches”, where the soaring backing vocals won’t go unnoticed.
The title track lands in the middle and emits much emotion alongside the moody keys, thumping drums and many backing singers in an almost gospel sort of way, while “Questions And Answers” brings plenty of rhythm to the playful swagger. “Curtain Call” then places strategic firmness into the mesmerizing songwriting where Bonamassa’s diverse pipes complement his always agile guitar playing.
“Hanging On A Loser” arrives near the end and injects bouncy piano playing and a energetic demeanor across the frisky album highlight, and “Known Unknowns” exits the listen with plenty of melody and the backing vocals from Mahalia Barnes, Juanita Tippins, and Prinnie Stevens sure do radiate well, too.
Just like everything Bonamassa has done in his 30 year career, Time Clocks is blues-rock at its finest, and full of rugged yet very memorable and creative song craft that’s executed flawlessly. The band includes Steve Mackey (bass), Lachy Doley (piano), Bunna Lawrie (didgeridoo), Bobby Summerfield (percussion), Anton Fig (drums and percussion), and they sure do illuminate Bonamassa’s vision with incredible fluidity.
Travels well with: Ronnie Earl & The Broadcasters- Rise Up; Albert Castiglia- Wild & Free