© Bluestronomical Publishing Inc. 2007

Glamourpuss
Bluesman’s Prayer
NorthernBlues NBM0031

The honest sounding songs on their 5th release draw you to conclude the band is in love with the blues and its lifestyle. The main character in "Leaving On Sunday" searches for comfort. Ironically, comfort surrounds you throughout this 52-minute disc. Blues/rock guitar makes "Gravel On The Road" sound tough. In order to accommodate discouraging lyrics about worlds colliding in a battle of blood and oil, it’s just what the song requires. The American Dream is questioned on "Street Walker" where a sharp, cutting guitar liberates a lady of the night. "Tu Peux Cogner" (loosely translated to ‘You Can Bang’) is a Cajun party tune exhibiting an upbeat accordion and a sweet piano solo. Precision timed and played lead guitar features on the retro sounding "Ain’t No News". Road warriors will relate to "Drivin’ The 401" especially if they’ve driven Canada’s busiest highway – known as the four oh one – which stretches from Windsor, Ontario to Montreal, Quebec. Like a sharpshooter at sundown, Travis Furlong (guitar) is quick on the draw on "Get Your Own". The rhythm of the title track is rooted in Mississippi and instantly connects the listener with the band. The song’s lyrics ("I don’t let nothin’ keep me down / Lord said to make a joyful sound / When you’re in despair / Just say the bluesman’s prayer") will inspire blues fans and blues bands alike. Although recorded as a loving tribute to Ray Charles, bonus track and sole cover "Georgia On My Mind" – Furlong and Roger Cormier share most of the songwriting duties – sounds out of place since it doesn’t enhance the album.

Glamourpuss is welcoming and inviting without showing off or being overbearing. Overall, you’ll enjoy riveting songwriting, articulate guitar, simmering keys and admirable production.

- Tim Holek -


Southwest Blues CD Review - May 2007

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