Here’s a throwback band to the days of bluesy rock or rockin’ blues. Guitarist and vocalist Jay Willie delivers music that used to be sine qua non for bands in the 70s, but has been about as frequent as shrimp at a bar mitzvah for quite a while. Based on the roots by the likes of Muddy Waters and Howlin’ Wolf, Willie and his band of Bob Callahan/g-b, Bobby T Torello/dr, Jason Ricci/harp and guest Marlou Zandvliet/v produce a mix of gritty originals and Chicago blues covers that keep the ceiling low and the vibes high. Themes like booze, broads and bucks show up on “Chain Smokin’” and “Best Side of You,” both with a feel for the real boogie blues. Willie’s guitar is pretty rough and ready while Zandvliet shouts out on “Hollywood” and Torello moans on Muddy Water’s “Champagne and Reefer.” No holds are barred here, and the night is just starting at 1 am with these cats!
Zoho Roots Records