SoulFunkn’ Blues
Electro-fi, 2023
8/10
The Juno Nominated outfit Blackburn Brothers make music with a message, where history, freedom, legacy, family and Black unity is present across these 11 spirited tracks.
The warm and groove filled “Bobby’s Blues” opens the listen with plenty of soulfulness amid the mesmerizing guitar, and “She’s A Heartbreaker” follows with funk filled moments amid the playful organ and proficient drumming.
Halfway through, the head bobbin’, top tappin’ “Won’t You Let Me Go” is destined for the dance floor, while “Why Do I Do (What I Do)” finds itself in intimate areas thanks to the expressive singing and well timed backing vocals plus frisky bass lines.
Approaching the end, “Little Sister” is a rich and animated blues rocker that uses crisp drums and animated guitars to its advantage, and “I Don’t Ever Want To Be Alone” exits with strong attention to mood that’s melodic, soaring and full of cozy song craft.
An excellent representation of Canadian roots and blues, Blackburn Brothers make songs of substance, and the authentic message they carry is packaged in powerful blues, funk, soul and rock sounds that you won’t soon forget.
Travels well with: Steve Marriner- Hope Dies Last; Horojo Trio- Set The Record