Nothing But Time
Gulf Coast, 2023
9/10
The Boston blues guitarist Monster Mike Welch makes quite an impression on this first album on the Gulf Coast label, where Kid Andersen handles producing, engineering and plays on the record, and the two time Grammy Winner Jerry Jemmott is in attendance, too.
“Walkin To You Baby” opens the listen, and welcomes Eric Spaulding’s bright tenor sax and John Halblieb’s well timed trumpet to the lively climate that’s guided by Welch’s spirited guitar, and “If I Had Possession Over Judgement Day” follows with Vicki Randle’s strategic percussion and Bob Welsh’s animated keys for the frisky, raw climate.
Further on, “Offset Blues” showcases Andersen’s precise bass playing amid Welch’s rugged yet tuneful pipes, while “In Case You Care” places Dr. Aaron Lington and Mike Peloquin’s soaring sax for the rich, soulful album highlight.
Deeper still, “Hard To Get Along With” spotlights Fabrice Bessouat’s agile drumming alongside the powerful and meticulous guitar from Welch, and “Kind Hearted Woman Blues” exits with a bare but highly memorable pairing of Welch’s bright storytelling that hits some high notes with soft guitar playing.
Welch is a seasoned vet with 3 decades of touring and recording to his credit, and this excellent body of work continues his position as one of today’s leaders in the area of the blues.
Travels well with: Mike Zito- Blues For The Southside; Albert Castiglia- Wild And Free