Carryout Or Delivery
VizzTone, 2020
9/10
Listen to Carryout Or Delivery
Undoubtedly the most exceptional young talent that exists in today’s blues scene, the piano sensation Ben Levin returns with 8 originals and 4 covers as his backing band of his father, Aron Levin (guitar), Oscar Bernal (drums) and Chris Douglas (bass) help the college student deliver yet another fine record.
“You Know” starts the listen with Levin’s incredibly agile piano work as soulful, comforting vocals that never seems like they originate from a 21 year old guides the retro fun that sounds like could have been penned 50 years before Levin was born, and “Stuck” follows with a percussively strong and highly rhythmic venture that’s reminiscent of a night at a piano bar.
Deeper into the listen, “Have You Lost Your Mind” pairs firm keys with spirited guitar work, while “Some Other Time” moves into a soothing landscape of groove friendly, nearly soft rock balladry. “My Back Scratcher”, one of the album’s best, then benefits greatly from the playful organ as intricate guitar work complements the strong vocals and frisky funk.
Closer to the end, “The Buzzard” offers a slow burning instrumental where gorgeous interplay between the noisemakers make an impression, and “Time Brings About A Change” exits the listen with sublime beauty amid a stirring ballad where Levin seems wiser than his years.
Levin handles lead vocals here, as well as organ, electric piano, and piano, and he does a hell of a job, again proving just why he’s picking up awards and seeing global attention for his mature and creative brand of song craft.
Travels well with: Bob Corritore- Do The Hip-Shake Baby!; Bob Margolin- This Guitar And Tonight