Dr. Helander & Third Ward – Shining Pearls
Blue Light Records
10 tracks – 39 minutes
In the vast landscape of blues, where the heart and soul of the genre unfold in electrifying chords and heartfelt lyrics, Finnish trio Dr. Helander & Third Ward carve their niche. The third album from this blues powerhouse, aptly titled 'Shining Pearls,' is a sonic journey through Chicago and Delta blues, where the twin guitars of Ikko Helander and Esa Kuloiemi, along with the rhythmic beats of drummer Leevi Leppanen, create a blues symphony that's both timeless and contemporary.
Opening with "I Don't Wanna Wake Up from My Dream," the listener is immediately thrust into the fiery world of Dr. Helander & Third Ward. Ikko's lead guitar, accompanied by Kuloiemi's mean slide guitar and Leppanen's rhythmic drumming, sets the tone for an album that promises an authentic blues experience. In "Unwanted Person," the trio explores themes of rejection and isolation, capturing the essence of the blues narrative.
The band pays homage to blues legends with well-chosen covers. Lightning Hopkins' "War Is Starting Again" takes on a renewed relevance, resonating with the turmoil of the world today. The influence of Mississippi Fred McDowell is evident in their rendition of "61 Highway," a track that adds a Delta blues flavor to the album.
"Cemetery Wall" introduces Leppanen's organ playing, creating a haunting atmosphere as the lyrics reflect on the inevitability of downfall. The slide guitar takes center stage again in "Your Old School," a track that echoes the traditional Chicago blues style. The title song, "Shining Pearls," poignantly explores the paradox of material possessions and happiness, with Ikko singing, "Shining Pearls won't make you happy; diamond rings will make you frown."
"Bridge To Freedom" emerges as an anthem of renewal, featuring Kuloiemi's ripping slide guitar. The trio, joined by Panu Syrjanen on sax, delivers a soulful performance in "You Don't Care," expressing the blues sentiment of heartbreak and indifference. The album reaches its climax with "Rollercoaster Riding," a metaphorical exploration of life's ups and downs.
'Shining Pearls' encapsulates the essence of electric guitar blues, and Ikko's vocals resonate with the traditional Chicago blues spirit. The seamless blend of raw authenticity and contemporary energy makes this album a standout in the blues landscape. Dr. Helander & Third Ward prove that the blues, in their capable hands, is not just a musical genre but a living, breathing experience.**
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