Dockside
Clover, 2023
8/10
The exceptional singer-songwriter and guitarist Jonah Tolchin continues his superb output, and here we’re treated to a blues inspired 12 tracks that are all originals.
The thumping “Blues With A Feeling” opens the listen with Terence Higgins behind the drum kit for the rich and rugged blues climate, and “Searching For My Soul” follows with plenty of playful grooves thanks to Chris Joyner’s precise keys and Marley Munroe’s soulful backing vocals.
Further along, “Can’t Close My Eyes” uses distinct singing amid Luther Dickinson’s inimitable rhythm guitar prowess, while “Trust Someone” places Dickinson on lead guitar for the melodic textures and smooth singing of the album’s best.
Approaching the end, Chavonne Stewart lends her incredible pipes for the dreamy, elegant “Too Far Down”, and, even deeper, “Vermillion River” brings in Carey Frank on keyboards for the breezy spirit and upbeat keys.
Recorded at the legendary Dockside Studios in Maurice, Louisiana, the New Orleans nods are captured by Dickinson, whose contributions on lead and rhythm guitar and clave are substantial, and the Americana and R&B moments are greatly appreciated, too.
Travels well with: Matt Charette & The Truer Sound- Lo Fi High Hopes; Eric Whitacre- Home