Volume 1
Stony Plain, 2022
8/10
A new blues musical ensemble spearheaded by Steve Strongman alongside an all star cast of Canadian luminaries, this debut listen recruits a wealth of talent and experience and applies it to songs about celebrating life and the joys of being on the other side.
“Hard Luck” opens the listen with a nice balance of melody and grit, where Jesse O’Brien's playful keys and Dave King’s agile drumming complement Strongman’s sturdy pipes, and “Swansong” follows with Steve Marriner’s vocals and harmonica adding a soulful quality to the rugged blues.
The middle spot belongs to the rhythmic and groove friendly “I Like To Ride”, where Harrison Kennedy’s smooth pipes flow alongside Strongman’s skilled guitar, while “White Lightnin’” welcomes Alec Fraser on bass for the powerful, slow burner.
“True To Me” arrives late in the listen and benefits much from Strongman’s spirited harmonica, precise bass and soaring vocals on the album’s best, and “Love Comin’ Down” exits the listen with a thumping and bouncy display of grit, soul and melody that you won’t soon forget.
Strongman’s got an impressive resume that includes 7 solo albums and a JUNO Award, and his experience in swampy sounds, sublime balladry and energetic rockers certainly doesn’t disappoint, nor does his esteemed company that help make this first effort exceptional.
Travels well with: Sass Jordan- Bitches Blues; Mike Stevens- Breathe In The World, Breathe Out Music