California Son
KZZ/Blue Elan, 2024
9/10
This 14th album from the prolific and exceptional Ted Russel Kamp has him playing the bulk of the instruments, where the songs fleshed out in his home studio show much diversity under his Americana template.
The warm and cozy spirit of the title track starts things off with Kamp’s flowing vocals and Brian Whelan and Zachary Ross’ swirling guitar playing, and “Hard To Hold” follows with harmony vocals from John Schreffler that adds a bit of grit to the country-rock climate.
“The Upside To The Downside” lands in the middle, and showcases Tommi Viksten’s fluid guitar that suits Kamp’s expressive pipes for a playful delivery, while “Ballad Of The Troubadour” allows Kamp’s rasp to shine amid the sophisticated keys and Matt Lomeo’s glowing harmonica that makes for a sublime intimacy.
Arriving close to the end, “Hangin’ On Blues” is a vocally strong moment which illuminates Kamp’s vivid storytelling, and “Every Little Thing” exits with a fuller approach that benefits from Jamie Douglas’ thumping drums via the rich and harmonic finish.
If you’ve been following along, you’re not going to be surprised by the quality of the songwriting here. If this is your first time exploring Kamp, as long as you’re open to grooves, finger pickin’, honky tonk flavor and outlaw gestures, you’re going to enjoy this musical ‘Love Letter To L.A.’
Travels well with: Breezers- Hideaway; Jon Byrd- All Your Mistakes