D. Scott Riggs – These Hard Times Will Come To Pass
Pure Panhandle Music
11 songs – 43 minutes
In the midst of a renewed interest in traditional acoustic blues, D. Scott Riggs emerges as a distinctive force with his latest album, "These Hard Times Will Come To Pass." Hailing from the Gulf Coast, Riggs introduces listeners to what he terms "panhandle blues," a captivating blend of pre-war Delta blues, Piedmont blues, and Texas gospel-blues, with a touch of hokum. Armed with resonator and acoustic guitars, Riggs delivers an authentic and soul-stirring experience reminiscent of the early 20th-century blues era.
Recorded at Slow Q Studio in Pensacola, Florida, the album features Riggs as a solo singer-guitarist, showcasing his masterful command of the resonator and acoustic guitars. Riggs' gravelly voice adds a raw and authentic quality to the music, creating a sonic landscape that bridges the gap between the modern day and the blues traditions of a bygone era. Although the album doesn't credit the engineers and masterminds behind the project, the sound captured on the record is nothing short of stunning, transporting listeners to the roots of the blues.
"These Hard Times Will Come To Pass" draws inspiration from the gospel blues of legends like Blind Willie Johnson and the Reverend Edward W. Clayborn. While the album doesn't specify the songwriter, the compositions feel deeply rooted and echo the spiritual and emotional depth of early blues luminaries. Riggs' lyrical themes traverse religious and gospel blues, exploring despair, hope, weariness, and faith, mirroring the timeless narratives of the 1920s.
Riggs' prowess as a guitarist shines through, with standout performances on tracks like the minor-key "Here Comes The Conductor," where his slide work resonates with an ethereal quality reminiscent of the legendary Skip James. Riggs also demonstrates his finger-picking finesse on tracks like "Stranger, Come On In," showcasing a range of instrumental virtuosity.
The road-worn quality of Riggs' voice complements the material exquisitely, channeling a spectrum of emotions from weariness to optimism. The intricately finger-picked "Each Night I Say A Prayer" stands out as a testament to Riggs' vocal prowess and emotional delivery.
"These Hard Times Will Come To Pass" manages to capture a timeless essence, blending the authenticity of 1920s blues with the sonic clarity of contemporary recording techniques. Riggs' dedication to the vintage blues aesthetic is evident throughout the album, making it a compelling and enjoyable release.
In the realm of blues that transcends time, "These Hard Times Will Come To Pass" stands as a testament to D. Scott Riggs' artistry, leaving listeners eager to explore more of his discography. This album is a must-listen for enthusiasts of authentic, soul-stirring blues.
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