Michael Burks
Iron Man
Alligator (ALCD 4923)
I first heard the music of Michael Burks when I received a copy of his independent debut CD From The Inside Out in 1999. I recall being very impressed with that effort and how much Burks sounded like Albert King at the time. Since that debut, Burks has signed with Alligator Records where he has recorded several albums and continues to tour clubs and festivals building his fan base and is widely regarded as one of the rising stars in the blues.
The disc opens with Burks’ slashing guitar cutting like a razorblade over a funky bassline by Don Garrett. The recording is mastered with a very punchy sound and Burks vocals will have you believing you are hearing the voice of Albert King again. “Strange Feeling” displays Burks’ skill on slide guitar and is one of seven tunes that he either wrote or co-wrote for the album. “Empty Promises” is a ballad which allows Burks to showcase his rich vocals and an absolutely molten guitar solo. “No More Crying” is a straight ahead shuffle featuring solid backing from Burks’ road band which includes Dallas drummer Chuck “Popcorn” Louden. A cover of Jimmy Johnson’s slow blues “Ashes In My Ashtray” features a very powerful and dynamic guitar solo. “Don’t Waste My Time” is set to an upbeat groove that is made for dancing and features a bass line similar to the one in Wet Willie’s “Keep On Smiling”. Burks also includes a cover of label mate Tinsley Ellis’ “Hard Come, Easy Go”. “Icepick Through My Heart” was co-written with Nashville musician Fred James and Alligator boss Bruce Iglauer. Vocally, Burks again moves into Albert King territory and plays a lot of guitar on this one. The last tune on the 12 tune recording is a shuffle that Burks also wrote with Iglauer.
Alligator Records has a long history of putting out recordings by artists who have deep roots in traditional blues music but are capable of crossing over to a larger audience consisting of rock music fans. Burks, like previous Alligator artists Luther Allison and Son Seals has this quality as well. The combination of high energy guitar, deep grooves and Burks’ voice combine for satisfying listen for blues rockers and those who like their blues on the traditional side as well.
- Barry Gober -
Southwest Blues CD Review - June 2008
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