Chris O’Leary – The Hard Line
Alligator Records – 2024
12 tracks - 52 minutes
Harmonica Virtuosity and Gritty Storytelling in Every Note.
In the realm of blues, few wield the harmonica with the prowess and intensity of Chris O'Leary. His sixth solo endeavor, The Hard Line (2024), released under Alligator Records, is a testament to O'Leary's mastery of the blues harp and his skill as a storyteller. Clocking in at 52 minutes across 12 tracks, this album is a journey through the soulful alleys of blues, narrated by a true virtuoso.
The opening track, "No Rest," sets the stage with howling harmonica, offering a taste of what's to come. O'Leary's harp style is a rich amalgamation of influences, echoing the grit of Charlie Musselwhite, the dynamic sound of James Cotton, the haunting echoes of Little Walter, and the shuffling groove of Paul Butterfield. The result is a distinctive and funky sound that permeates the entire album.
"I Cry at Night" stands out as a masterpiece, showcasing O'Leary's vulnerability amid a tapestry of electric guitar progressions and haunting organ notes by Jeremy Baum. The guitar work is not just precise; it's an emotional journey, weaving a tragic narrative with every note.
The album unfolds like a series of gritty tales, a testament to O'Leary's background as a former Marine and federal police officer. In "Things Ain't Always What They Seem," an upbeat tempo collides with a tale of a streetwise femme fatale, leaving an indelible mark. Throughout the album, O'Leary delves into themes of insomnia, love, guilt, divorce, New Orleans, and robbery, creating a narrative mosaic of the blues.
The guitar work on the album is nothing short of versatile and robust. Tracks like "Ain't That A Crime" and "Lost My Mind" showcase the electric presence and solos reminiscent of Stevie Ray Vaughan. The slow-burning passion in "Ain't That A Crime" and the boogie-woogie brilliance of "Lost My Mind" reveal the album's dynamic range.
Self-produced by O'Leary, with recording at Cupola Studios by Dan Vitarello, the album boasts a smooth and polished production. The inclusion of a horn section on four tracks, featuring Andy Stahl on tenor sax and Ron Knittle on baritone sax, injects fresh dimensions into the blues landscape.
The album's eclecticism is another strength, meandering through slow-burners, ballads, New Orleans grooves, and high-tempo jams. The common threads are O'Leary's soulful blues harp and his masterful storytelling. Tracks like "Need for Speed" and "Funky Little Club on Decatur" invite you to the dance floor with their infectious rhythms and jubilant energy.
In the grand tapestry of blues releases in 2024, The Hard Line stands tall, filled with mournful ballads, high-tempo rockers, and brilliant storytelling. Chris O'Leary's harmonica prowess and the album's varied hues make it not just a must-listen but one of the most exciting blues offerings of the year. Get ready for a journey down the hard line, where every note echoes with the soul of the blues.
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