Dean Zucchero – Electric Church for the Spiritually Misguided
Pugnacious Records, 2023
11 Tracks, 43 minutes
Bassist, songwriter, and producer Dean Zucchero has assembled an all-star cast of blues musicians for his latest album, "Electric Church for the Spiritually Misguided," and the result is nothing short of spectacular. Released under Pugnacious Records in 2023, the album boasts a lineup of esteemed artists, including Johnny Rawls, Johnny Sansone, Jonathan “Boogie” Long, and a host of talented New Orleans-based musicians. With 11 tracks, all written or co-written by Zucchero, and his expert bass anchoring each composition, the album promises a blues journey with depth and virtuosity.
The opening track sets the tone with the smooth, soulful vocals of Johnny Rawls. The lyrics caution a woman about a wealthy suitor, and Rawls delivers the message with conviction. The collaboration of guest musicians, including Johnny Burgin on guitar and Terence Higgins on drums, creates a rich and irresistible sound. The backing vocals by Ghalia Volt, Tiffany Pollack, and Whitney Alouiscious Sanders add another layer of soulful charm to the mix.
Humor finds its place on the album with a track celebrating the joys of getting drunk on stout. The lyrics humorously dismiss craft beer, claiming that "getting drunk on stout enhances my clout." It's a lighthearted addition that showcases Zucchero's versatility in songwriting.
A collaborative effort with Ghalia Volt yields another gem, a humorous song about procrastination. The country-blues feel is complemented by Volt's vocals and cigar-box guitar, blending seamlessly with the Cajun sounds of Waylon Thibodeaux's fiddle. The diversity in musical styles showcased on the album keeps the listener engaged and entertained.
"Empty Postbox" introduces classic blues to the mix, featuring vocals and harmonica by Bruce “Sunpie” Barnes. The raw authenticity of Barnes' delivery adds a layer of grit to the track, paying homage to the roots of the blues.
Instrumental prowess takes center stage with two standout tracks. "La Belle Poursuite" features Joe Krown on organ and John Fohl on guitar, creating a captivating sonic landscape. The instrumental "DBA" showcases the extraordinary harmonica skills of Jason Ricci, accompanied by Krown on organ. Both tracks serve as a testament to the musicianship present throughout the album.
While the spoken-word approach in Jonathan “Boogie” Long's track may initially seem like a departure from his vocal talent, the song eventually unleashes Long's powerful singing towards the end. It adds a dynamic touch to the album, demonstrating the artists' willingness to experiment with different styles.
In "Electric Church for the Spiritually Misguided," Dean Zucchero has crafted a blues masterpiece that highlights the genre's richness and versatility. The collaboration with a stellar lineup of musicians, coupled with Zucchero's skillful production and arrangement, makes this album a must-have for blues enthusiasts. Each track is a testament to the enduring appeal and evolving nature of the blues, ensuring that listeners will want to revisit this star-studded collection time and again.
Comments