It’s A Mad Mad Bad Dad World
PieHole, 2022
8/10
Listen to It’s A Mad Mad Bad Bad World
The Bad Daddy singer/guitarist Paul Waring was about halfway through penning this sophomore album from Bad Daddy in 2021, when a few beers with the guitarist Pete Galanis got the ball rolling on these 9 originals and lone cover that mesh the band’s blues and roots rock in very modern ways.
“Blues At Home” starts the listen with rugged yet tuneful blues rock that’s powerfully executed with spirited guitar work, and “Just My Luck” follows with warm organ and meticulous guitar acrobatics to highlight the gritty singing.
In the middle, “Pork Pie Hat” brings a breezy quality with soulful backing vocals in the album’s best, while “The Blues I Can Use” moves at a slower pace that’s full of sublime beauty as R&B ideas enter the dreamy landscape.
Nearing the end, “Trip On Your Love” brings a bit of funk flavor to the dynamic climate, and “Where You Been So Long” exits the listen with a very stylish and melodic approach that showcases precise guitar playing amid the playful rhythm section.
An inimitable cast of Chicago players, including Elton Jaan (Hammond organ), Ari Seder (bass), Jason ‘JROC’ Edwards (drums), and Andrea Miologos and Bree Gordon (backing vocals) help make for a collaborative effort that is sure to appeal to any and all fans of the blues, past and present.
Travels well with: Albert Castiglia- I Got Love; Kenny ‘Blues Boss’ Wayne- Blues From Chicago To Paris: A Tribute To Memphis Slim And Willie Dixon