Backtrack Blues Band – A Day By The Bay
9 tracks/56 minutes
Capturing the essence of their four-decade journey, the Backtrack Blues Band delivers a dynamic live performance with "A Day By The Bay," recorded at the Tampa Bay Blues Festival. Celebrating 42 years of musical camaraderie, this Tampa Bay-based blues outfit, led by Sonny Charles on vocals and harmonica, proves that their blues roots run deep. The album, released under Gulf Coast Records, showcases the band's longevity, passion, and skill in a collection of nine tracks that bring the vibrant energy of their live show to listeners.
The album kicks off with "Best Friend's Grave," setting the tone with Kid Royal's adept guitar work and Sonny Charles' soulful harmonica. The interplay between vocals and instruments establishes a lively atmosphere, a testament to the band's tight-knit chemistry. The blues journey continues with "Make My Home In Florida," a slow blues number that, despite its geographical theme, resonates with heartfelt musical expression. Charles' harmonica and Royal's guitar take turns in the spotlight, creating a balanced and engaging sonic experience.
"Help Me Just This Time" maintains the momentum with a mid-tempo shuffle, allowing each band member to shine in their respective roles. The rhythm section, led by Joe Bencomo on drums and Stick Davis on bass, provides a solid foundation, while Wayne Sharp's B3 organ adds a layer of richness to the sound. The band's versatility is showcased in "Dixie Grill," where the organ takes a more prominent role, contributing to the vibrant and dynamic feel of the track.
The album takes a delightful turn with the cover of Jimmy Reed's "Natural Born Lover," featuring Kid Royal on vocals. The band's interpretation pays homage to the blues legend while infusing their own flair into the performance. "Rich Man Blues" follows, maintaining the momentum with Charles' evocative harmonica playing and Royal's expressive guitar work.
Kid Royal takes the lead vocals on his original composition, "She Might Get Mad," injecting a lively and jumping energy into the mix. The collaborative spirit of the Backtrack Blues Band is evident as each member contributes to the overall sonic tapestry. "Times Is Hard" slows down the tempo, delivering a poignant slow blues that allows the emotional nuances of the vocals and instrumentation to take center stage. It's a testament to the band's ability to convey a range of emotions through their music.
The album concludes with "You'll Come Back Someday," a cool shuffle that brings the live recording to a satisfying end. The harmonica, guitar, and organ trade solos, showcasing the band's instrumental prowess and ensuring that the listener is left with a memorable final impression.
"A Day By The Bay" stands as a testament to the Backtrack Blues Band's enduring commitment to the blues. The live setting captures the essence of their performance, highlighting the chemistry and proficiency that comes from decades of shared musical experiences. With soulful vocals, masterful instrumentation, and a well-rounded selection of tracks, this album is a vibrant addition to the band's extensive catalog and a must-listen for blues enthusiasts.
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