Second album from Rapkin and a fine set of raw and roughcut Blues it is. He has been steeped in the Blues since discovering Stevie Ray Vaughan (via Guitar Hero) at age 12. His 18th birthday was spent in New Orleans – jamming with no less than Wolfman Washington. He is rounded out by the Swampdogs – Mia Casey on drums & Ian Davidson on bass & cello and you can really hear the tightness of a crew that has been living together, touring together and mutually loving the Blues.
The album is a view of the dark side of life and death. Seven originals and four covers that sound modern and ancient at the same time. All of the originals are fine songs in their own right and the covers by Son House, Mississippi Fred McDowell, Charlie Patton fit right in with them.
The album opens with ‘VICES’, guitar driven and pacey, it sets out the style of the band perfectly.
Son House’s ‘Death Letter’ follows, and they bring a Johnny Winter feel to this classic, terrific slide guitar and a funk beat.
‘Pearly Gates’ has a slightly rockabilly flavour, showing the versatility of the band, tons of echo on the guitar and vocal forward production.
My favourite track is probably their version of Mississippi Fred McDowell’s ‘Highway 61’. Hard Blues, slow and precise. Patrick Kenneally plays Hammond with a jazzy touch, whispering and redolent the winds that blow up and down that damned road. The other cover – Charlie Patton’s ‘Oh Death’ is totally different, starting with just guitar and vocal, jangly guitar against a strong vocal. Gradually, the song builds, adding cello, organ, slide guitar, but never losing the song itself.
Every track stands on its own, different styles and sounds but always feeling like a single entity. They even manage a bit of skiffle on ‘This Train’!
Mixing and mastering from the estimable Wayne Proctor ensures Rapkin’s vision is kept to and the whole is a delight from start to finish. One of the better listens I have enjoyed this year.
