Shake The Roots
Gulf Coast, 2022
8/10
The powerful duo of Gino Matteo (guitar) and Jade Bennett (vocals), this debut album from The Bennett Matteo Band enlists some excellent players in the area of blues for their self-described ‘dirtfunk and desert soul’ formula.
“Doesn’t Really Matter” gets the listen off to a groove filled start, where thumping drums from Carson Ford and Bennett’s soulful and flowing pipes guide the thick blues, and “Shiny Creatures” follows with an emotive quality that welcomes strategic backing vocals and well timed keys.
Halfway through, “Moving On” showcases intricate guitar amid a cautious approach that builds into an ebullient rocker, while “Warm Inside” is indeed warm with fluid and driving guitars for the more rock focused album highlight.
Nearing the end, “Table For Two” brings a slow burning track that recruits R&B nods, and “When I Close My Eyes” exits the listen with Nic Clark’s spirited harmonica and Michael Burnham’s skilled bass complementing the lush and soaring climate.
In addition to those mentioned above, Kid Andersen (guitar, keys), Jim Pugh (keys), Dmar (percussion), Lisa Leuschner Anders and The Sons of the Soul Revivers (backing vocals) all lend their talents, and it makes for an atypical blues listen that you will not forget anytime soon.
Travels well with: Kat Riggins- Cry Out; Early Times & The High Rollers- Electric City