Memphis Moonlight
VizzTone, 2021
8/10
The powerhouse vocalist Deb Ryder is back with her 5th album, and all 13 originals illustrate her blues, Americana, soul and R&B nods where an all star cast is on hand to illuminate the timeless song craft.
Ryder wisely puts “I’m Coming Home” in the lead position, where her soulful and strong pipes take help from Tony Braunagel’s firm drums and Joe Sublet’s flowing sax on the lively funky, blues rocker, and “Hold On” follows with Pieter Van Der Pluijm’s spirited harmonica alongside Johnny Lee Schell’s deft guitar work as grit and melody work their way into the retro rocker.
Closer to the middle, the soft and agile “Love Is Gone” displays much power and emotion while showcasing Mike Finnigan’s Hammond B3, and the title track recruits playful percussion and fascinating guitar picking amid Ryder’s versatile pipes. “Devil’s Credit Line”, one of the album’s best, then makes great use of Alastair Green’s guitar skills as dynamic instrumentation flows from the esteemed players
Approaching the end, “Second Chances” embraces accordion from David Hidalgo and David Delgado’s flawless guitar lines, and “Most Of All” exits the listen bare and poetic, where Ryder’s sublime singing finishes with her incredible range and execution as the focus.
The blues comes in all shapes and sizes these days, but there’s little doubt that Ryder’s version of it is among the best, as her stunning voice and meticulous songwriting make for an unforgettable listen.
Travels well with: Patti Parks- Whole Nother World; Danielle Miraglia- Bright Shining Stars