Take A Ride
Self-Released, 2025
9/10
The harmonica player and vocalist Larry Kurtz is joined by James Legere, Sam Carothers and Scott Bruyea for 15 originals that are rooted in the blues and roots.
The rhythmic and bluesy “Headwaters Hill Country” opens with Bruyea’s frisky drums that suit Kurtz’s smooth pipes and no lack of melody, and “I’m A Carpenter” follows with a soulful quality that benefits from Legere’s rich guitar playing and Carother’s stylish bass lines.
Further along, the calmer territory of “Let Me In” allows for Kurtz’s expressive pipes to shine, while “God’s Gift” is an energetic and gritty blues rocker, where Kurtz’s harmonica shines via the album’s best.
Residing close to the end, the bouncy presence of the dance floor ready “So Glad You’re Home” comes with a timeless spirit, and “Teardrop Tim” exits with sharp guitar, well time harmonica and raw singing.
Kurtz cut his teeth in the award winning outfit Trouble & Strife, and he’s played some of the biggest festivals in Canada. This effort continues his top notch songwriting, and the band don’t disappoint, either, for the authentic blues experience.
Travels well with: Paul Black- Beautiful Sin; Glenn Marais & The Mojo Train- Red, Hot And Blue