Benjamin Vo, a budding guitarist hailing from Pennsylvania, steps into the blues arena with his latest self-released album, "Poor Sam" (2023). With a lineup that includes François Byers on piano, Jeff Pickel on bass, Joel Stoltzfos on drums, and a harmonica cameo by Peter Wile McKibben, Benjamin Vo takes the listener on a 10-track journey into the heart of electric blues.
The opening track, "Looking For My Baby," sets the tone with its stripped-back, raw sound reminiscent of early Fleetwood Mac. Benjamin's mournful vocals blend seamlessly with the steady rhythm section, and François Byers adds stinging piano accents to enrich the sonic palette. The album unfolds with a mix of solo and full-band performances, showcasing Benjamin's versatility.
"Weeping And Praying" introduces a solo acoustic piece, highlighting Benjamin's skill on what sounds like a National Steel guitar. The soulful "Sweet Like Honey" pays homage to a significant other, allowing Benjamin to express his admiration through emotive vocals and tasteful guitar licks. The Delta-inspired "I Wonder Why" features slide guitar work, offering a nod to blues traditions.
"Wiggly Worm" serves as a short, captivating instrumental interlude, showcasing Benjamin's nimble fingerpicking. The band returns for "Let Me Die With A Smile," a lugubrious slow blues where Benjamin's guitar work takes center stage. The extended instrumental section around the five-minute mark exhibits echoes of Peter Green's distinctive style, cementing the influence.
"Poor Sam," another instrumental track, starts solo acoustic before the band joins in for a lively and fast-paced exploration. The guest harmonica on "Wer Willy" injects a New Orleans vibe into the mix, elevating the track's energy. "Hospital Bed Blues" brings back the poignant slow blues feel, allowing Benjamin's guitar to convey deep emotion.
The album concludes with "Gray In White," a final instrumental piece that shifts the mood toward folk influences. Benjamin's acoustic playing in this track reveals yet another facet of his musical expression.
Throughout "Poor Sam," Benjamin Vo's guitar work pays homage to blues legends like Peter Green, echoing the clean and eloquent phrasing that defined the original Fleetwood Mac sound. The album offers a delightful journey for fans of authentic blues, combining soulful vocals, evocative lyrics, and skillful guitar craftsmanship.
In essence, "Poor Sam" is a compelling showcase of Benjamin Vo's musical prowess, providing a glimpse into the rich blues traditions that have inspired this promising Pennsylvania guitarist.
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