Desire On Ice
Org, 2025
9/10
The veteran rock’n’roller Tav Falco returns with a 14th studio album, where a large cast of excellent players are on hand for the diversity.
The cinematic opener, “Prologue”, leads with Kid Congo’s deep pipes and Rev. Horton Heat’s distinct guitar setting the tone for the record, and “Gentlemen In Black” follows with swampy blues and vivid storytelling alongside Jimmy Rip’s fluid guitar.
Deeper into the record, “Vampire From Havana” enlists Ann Magnuson and Bubba Feathers, who help make for a melodic and retro spirit, while “Crying For More” lands in balladry, as Richard Barone’s rhythm guitar and Scott Bomar’s bass suit the aching mood.
Arriving late, “Lady From Shanghai” offers a dark and soulful moment thanks to Rene Coman’s plucked upright bass and Alex Greene’s keys, and “Epilogue” finishes with a quick, dreamy bout that pairs Eddie Angel’s gentle guitar with Nicole Atkins’ soft voice.
The songs span 4 decades of Falco’s work and they do justice to his timeless vision that embraces jazz, rockabilly, tango, Americana and many other ideas and employs his current touring band, i.e. Panther Burns, Mario Monterosso, Giuseppe Sangirardi and Walter Brunetti.
Travels well with: The Blasters- The Complete Concert; Phil Alvin- Un ‘Sung Stories’