Jonah Tolchin – Dockside
Clover Music Group
12 songs – 51 minutes
Jonah Tolchin, a name synonymous with acoustic finger-picked folk, takes a detour into the electric blues realms with his latest release, "Dockside." Known for his early encounter with blues maestro Ronnie Earl at the tender age of 15, Tolchin's musical journey has now led him to the rich and rhythmic landscapes of Louisiana and Mississippi.
Co-produced by Luther Dickinson of North Mississippi Allstars, "Dockside" is a testament to Tolchin's versatility and his ability to seamlessly transition between genres. Recorded live at Dockside Studios in Maurice, Louisiana, the album encapsulates the spirit of the South, embracing the gumbo of rhythms that Tolchin's father, who ran a record store in the Mississippi Delta, once immersed himself in.
The album, consisting of 12 tracks, is a masterful blend of Tolchin's songwriting prowess and the artistry of a stellar band. Tolchin, handling vocals, lead guitar, and harmonica, is joined by a lineup that includes Luther Dickinson on rhythm guitar and clave, Terence Higgins on drums, Nic Coolidge on bass and rhythm guitar, Chavonne Stewart and Marley Munroe on backing vocals, and keyboardists Chris Joyner and Carey Frank.
"Dockside" exudes an infectious energy, a result of the joyous freedom Tolchin and his band experienced during the two-day live recording session. The raw, rough feel of the songs is balanced with tight structures that allow the musicians room to explore and infuse each track with authenticity.
Tolchin's songwriting takes center stage, with 10 original compositions that showcase his ability to weave narratives that transcend age. His voice, weathered and soulful, adds a layer of authenticity to the blues-fueled journey. As a harmonica player, Tolchin shines, delivering standout solos that add depth to tracks like "Endless Highway."
The album's highlights include "Mama Don't Worry," a funky number where Tolchin showcases his prowess with the slide, and the Zeppelin-esque blues-rock of "Nothing's Gonna Take My Blues Away," where his guitar work is both inventive and rooted in tradition.
The closing track, "Lucille," a magical slow blues, stands out as a testament to Tolchin's emotional connection with his craft.
While "Dockside" is not a traditional 12-bar blues album, it captures the essence of the genre in tracks like the minor-key gem "Can't Close My Eyes" and the Delta Blues revival of "Vermillion River." The album opens with a reinterpretation of Little Walter's "Blues With A Feeling," grounding the Chicago blues classic in the Louisiana soil.
"Searching For My Soul" brings a soul-infused vibe to the album, reminiscent of the casual genius of Eric Lindell. The entire collection is a musical celebration, an uplifting journey through blues-infused landscapes that showcase Tolchin's appreciation for the genre's roots.
In "Dockside," Jonah Tolchin invites listeners on a blues odyssey, navigating the bayou with finesse and authenticity. The album is not just a departure from his acoustic roots; it's a testament to the evolving and expansive nature of Tolchin's musical prowess. With each track, "Dockside" resonates as a wonderful, joyous celebration of the blues. Here's hoping Tolchin continues to explore and share more of these musical gems in the future.
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