Established 1972
VizzTone, 2022
8/10
The Washington D.C. legends The Nighthawks celebrate their 50 years together with this new album, where the founder, lead vocalist and harp wizard Mark Wenner is joined by the drummer Mark Stutso, guitarist Don Hovey, and bassist Paul Pisciotta for the 14 memorable tracks.
“Nobody” starts the listen with plenty of upbeat blues flavor, where the driving guitar and punchy drums complement the gritty lead vocals and soulful backing vocals, and “You Seem Distant” follows with spirited harmonica and a sharp rhythm section laying the groundwork for a timeless blue rocker.
Closer to the middle, “Take It Slow” bounces and shakes with a bit of cautiousness amid the smooth delivery, while “Johnny Too Bad” recruits thick guitar and well timed backing vocals for the head bobbin’, toe tappin’ fun. “West Memphis” then trims the pace back with an emotive and intimate landscape.
Nearing the end, “Fuss And Fight” brings us all the hallmarks we love about the blues, i.e. rhythm and melody, and “Driving” exits the listen breezy, poetic and nostalgic in all the best ways.
Few bands will ever make it as long as The Nighthawks, and even fewer will have the quality and consistency present across their entire catalog. Whether you’re a first time listener or an unwavering fan, Established 1972 will satiate your blues appetite superbly.
Travels well with: The Duke Robillard Band- They Called It Rhythm & Blues; Bob Margolin- Star Of Stage And Screens