Louisville Sluggers
Omnivore, 2023
8/10
Terry Adams and Steve Ferguson formed the New Rhythm And Blues Quartet in 1966, who would go on to release handfuls of globally appreciated music. Though Ferguson left NRBQ in 1971, he was always around in some form, and in the mid 2000’s the pair got back together with some friends to flesh out Louisville Sluggers.
The opening track, “Peanut Vendor”, wastes little time making an impression with saxophones from Gene Oliveri and Klem Klimek that complement Adams’ playful keys and Fergusion’s swirling guitar, and “Outer Space Boogie (Alternate Mix)” follows with plenty of dance floor ready swagger thanks to Tom Ardolino’s frisky drums and animated piano.
Further on, “Ichabod” welcomes Donn Adams’ bright trombone to the busy retro rock, while “It’s Too Soon To Know” is a more intimate offering of romantic singing alongside the warm keys, light drums and spirited guitar work.
Close to the end, “Turkey In The Straw” benefits from Quentin Sharpenstein’s charming string bass amid the swift keys in the energetic instrumental, and “Hey Good Lookin’” arrives even further with Harrie Lynne Buecker’s high notes on four-handed piano for the very adventurous take on the Hank Williams’ classic.
An excellent reissue with updated artwork (but with Donn Adams original liner notes) and four previously unissued bonus tracks, this serves as a great piece to the NRBQ legacy.
Travels well with: NRBQ- Tiddlywinks; Alex Chilton- Live In London: Encore Edition