Most people are familiar with Josh Alan as mainly an acoustic songwriter-performer. But for his latest release he has put together a very able band, brought in a few guest musicians, and added real punch to his already strong songwriting. Backed by Robby Garner on bass, and Derek Rougeot on drums, the Josh Alan Band is a tight fit unit, that is the perfect compliment to Josh Alan's unique approach to the blues.
Starting off with a nasty slide riff, "Josh's Breakdown", with it's funky syncopated beat, and gritty slide guitar, lets you know immediately that you've taken a left turn off the mainstream blues highway. From this point on, you know that Josh Alan means business. Next up is the "lost" Leiber and Stoller song "Strike A Match", written for Howlin' Wolf in 1955, but forgotten until now, as the Josh Alan Band breathes new life into this gem from the past. "When A Poor Man Gets Rich" is up and funky and is an excellent example of the wry wit and insight that always flow through Josh's lyrics.
In the middle of the CD is the urban melancholy blues of "Her City" featuring the haunting sax of David "Fathead" Newman. "Her City" is a tale of slight obsession and an ode to the fact that women really do own it all, if even only by their looks, and you keep coming back. On "Billionaire Of The Blues", Josh Alan is the richest man in town, and wears his mantle almost proudly, because the blues makes sure he's always paid well, kind of like a living hell. Finishing up this CD is "As Chanukah Passes Me By", a tongue-in-cheek view of the holiday season that is definitely a first in blues songwriting, and sure to bring a smile to your face.
One of the great things about Josh Alan Band is the fresh approach taken on many of the cuts. Josh Alan writes his music in a way that makes it not just the usual brand of 1-4-5 blues. His subject matter is well thought out. It's not that he's trying to elevate the
artform, or write over your head lyrics, he's just a thinking man who sings the blues, and he does it well.
