Nothing’ But The TRUTH
MoMojo, 2025
9/10
Listen to Nothin’ But The TRUTH
The harmonica player and vocalist Max Hightower brings plenty of New Orleans funk and Greasy Southern blues to these 12 authentic songs that welcome plenty of friends.
“Double Bubble” starts the listen with an energetic delivery, where Brandon Phelps’ agile drumming suits Hightower’s soulful pipes and soaring harmonica, and “It’s On Me” follows with Brian ‘BC’ Coogan’s animated organ adding much to the raw blues that showcases Hightower’s powerful guitar and gritty pipes.
Further along, “Twitchy Witcha” recruits James Beaumont’s well timed sax and trombone and sousaphone courtesy of Adam Lessneu for the rich climate, while “Too Much Of Not Enough” allows for Big Jon Atkinson’s flowing guitar to complement Rob Davis’ lively keys.
Approaching the end, “I Ain’t Lyin” is a calmer moment thanks to Steadman ‘Fleetwood’ Williams, Sr.’s smooth bass, and “Assmoghraph” exits with Hightower’s harmonica prowess and the frisky rhythm section making for a dynamic and authentic blues finish.
Hightower put in plenty of time as a member of Mac Arnold’s band, and this effort without any overdubs or studio trickery ensures a timeless and genuine experience of scrappy, unfiltered blues.
Travels well with: Jimmy Vivino- Gonna Be 2 Of Those Days; Albert Castiglia- Righteous Souls