|
 |
Ash GrunwaldI Don't Believe Head/Didgeridoo Alright, I'm not a blues enthusiast; in fact, I really wouldn't know the blues from a hole in the ground. But I know what I like, and I like Ash Grunwald. He's a sort of a one-man band, taking a lap steel guitar, a tambourine, certain kitchen implements (pots, hammer, spanners...) and a looping pedal. And while I'm sure there were at least a few overdubs (he can't possibly play these solos and rhythm sections out of time together, surely), the liner notes declare this was "recorded live." Whatever: this is really a great record to be savoured by everyone, not just the blues-conscious amongst us. The record is basically split into two sections with a little overlap, the first consisting of his originals, the second a few choice covers. The originals are great: Everyday is a brilliant slow-burner, Hey Baby has a great lap steel riff (plus it contains the line"'I ain't no sign interpreter..."), and Whispering Voice is guitar heaven, the kind of thing that can really make this white boy feel the blues. As for the covers, his version of Tom Waits' Going Out West heals the salty wound left by the Dissociatives (jeez, their cover was crap). His Crossroads, the Robert Johnson track made famous by late '60s supergroup Cream, is an awesome take on a familiar theme, and his version of Empire State makes me wish I knew who the hell Son House was. Ash Grunwald is a great guitarist, but the real clincher is his amazing, pure blues voice. I could listen to him all day. This guy's a sensation.  |
|
The latest issue available now!     |
All content copyright dB Magazine