Damon Fowler & Friends – Live at the Palladium
10 tracks – 79 minutes Damon Fowler, a Floridian blues virtuoso, showcases his exceptional talents in his latest release, "Live at the Palladium." A revered guitarist and accomplished lap steel and dobro player, Fowler's musical journey has been peppered with collaborations with blues legends like Jeff Beck, Johnny Winter, and Gregg Allman.
This live album, his ninth, captures the raw energy of Fowler's performance at St. Petersburg's Palladium Theater, marking a significant milestone in his career.
The album kicks off with the infectious groove of "It Came Out of Nowhere," reminiscent of a Gregg Allman southern rock anthem. Fowler's guitar mastery takes center stage, complemented by Dan Signor's standout piano contributions. A poignant cover of Guy Clark's "The Guitar" follows, a mesmerizing narrative unfolding around the discovery of a weathered guitar in a pawn shop window, accompanied by Fowler's evocative playing.
In "I've Been Low," Fowler explores the spectrum of human emotions, navigating through happiness and tears. The driving beat, courtesy of Justin Headley's drums and Dan Signor's piano, sets the stage for Fowler's soulful guitar expressions. Harmonica virtuoso Jason Ricci joins the ensemble on "Some Things Change," contributing a dynamic accompaniment to Fowler's guitar prowess.
The emotionally charged "Don't Feel Like Going There Today" showcases Ricci's harmonica prowess in a slow, passionate ballad, capturing the essence of melancholy. Fowler's narrative in "Tax Man" unfolds a true story, accompanied by Ricci's crying harmonica, delivering a bluesy account of relentless calls from the taxman.
Damon Fowler's rendition of Little Walter Jacobs's "Up the Line" is a high-energy tribute, with Ricci channeling Walter's harmonica magic and Fowler delivering a rousing performance. "Fruit Stand Lady" and "Old Fools, Barstools and Me" add playful and introspective dimensions to the album, respectively, with Fowler's guitar work remaining a constant highlight.
The album concludes with a captivating almost twelve-minute rendition of Fowler's "Sugar Shack." Jason Ricci rejoins the band, and Fowler's impeccable slide work, combined with the band's jam, creates a grand finale.
Damon Fowler's vocals echo the influences of Gregg Allman and Mike Zito, while his guitar style stands as a unique force, drawing comparisons to Warren Haynes. "Live at the Palladium" is not just an album; it's a testament to Fowler's southern soul mastery, leaving an indelible mark on the blues landscape.
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