Jack de Keyzer
Blues Thing
Blue Star CD2506
Jack de Keyzer – a master of many musical styles – is the pride and joy of the Canadian blues music scene. His latest CD came out towards the end of last year and it is so good that it made it on to my top ten list of 2007.
De Keyzer is a good songwriter – he wrote all of the CD’s 14 songs – but his songwriting isn’t as consistently strong as his guitar playing which is always distinguished. The other note worthy contributions includes a Stax Records sounding horn section and Michael Fonfara’s magnificent keyboards. Largely, the song’s lyrics are about the complications involved with love and de Keyzer sings them with affection. On the title track, which sounds influenced by Albert King’s “Pretty Woman,” Jack’s ambient guitar surrounds you like close friends supporting you when the chips are down. The guitar becomes mournful on “Cry The Blues” where the outstanding band emotes despair. The smooth and easy “Music Is The Food Of Love” is a ’30s and ’40s big band swing. Gentle yet abrasive BB King style guitar materializes on “That’s The Only Time” while both James Brown and Chuck Berry are saluted on “Bills” and “We Go Together,” respectively. “If I Had Your Love” is a radio-friendly pop soul song that sounds similar to “Soul Lover” from a few years ago. “Good Life” is a highlight because it brilliantly illustrates the dichotomy of money and happiness. The aristocratic melody contrasts with the blue-collar lyrics which preach the advantages of living a simple existence. Via innocence and seduction, “Miss America” also delivers a valid message regarding what happened to the America that we all once knew.
This isn’t a straight up blues album and the sweaty energy from his live performances are absent on Blues Thing, yet de Keyzer emits a multitude of emotion via poignant lyrics, graceful guitar and suave arrangements.
- Tim Holek -
Southwest Blues CD Review - March 2009
Current Reviews -
2009 Reviews - available at our store
