Live
VizzTone, 2019
8/10
Chris ‘Bad News’ Barnes has logged in a lot of stage time over the years, and it sure shows on this recording from 3 different performances on the Legendary Rhythm & Blues Cruise #32.
“Back In A Cadillac” gets the album off to a fiery start with sturdy riffs and brights horns in the bluesy fun, and “You Can’t Judge A Book By The Cover” follows with foot stompin’, toe tappin’, dance frenzy playfulness.
Elsewhere, Barnes digs deep in his catalog for the assertive and forthright “Hungry & Horny”, where backing vocals add an R&B feel, while “What’s Coming Next” finds a soulful place to reside in the nearly gospel delivery.
Late in the listen, “I Drink Alone” recruits a spirited delivery of lush ideas, and “Raise Your Hand” exits the set with anthemic quality as piano acrobatics, strong rhythm and a call and response singing adds much to the glorious closer.
An extremely entertaining listen where Barnes’ energy is uncontainable as Gary Hoey handles lead guitar and Steve Guyger holds down harmonica, the only bad news here is that these 13 tracks end too soon.
Travels well with: Bob Margolin- Bob Margolin; David Julia- Inspired