Franck L. Goldwasser – Who Needs This Mess?
Crosscut Records – 2023
15 Tracks; 57 minutes Franck L. Goldwasser may not be a household name, but his latest album, Who Needs This Mess?, released under Crosscut Records in 2023, asserts his position as a master of the guitar and a force to be reckoned with in the blues landscape. With over 40 years of musical journey since his move from France to the U.S., Goldwasser has graced the stage with legends like Lowell Fulson, Percy Mayfield, and Elvin Bishop. His latest offering, a 15-track blues odyssey, showcases not only his profound guitar technique but also his songwriting prowess.
The album kicks off with a rhythmic shuffle that sets the tone for what's to come. "I Don't Want Your Love, I Just Want Your Lovin'" is a brutally honest non-love song that unveils Goldwasser's straightforward lyrical style. As the album progresses, it becomes clear that Who Needs This Mess? is not just a collection of blues tracks but a diverse journey through various tempos and influences.
A standout track, both in title and execution, is the album's namesake, "Who Needs This Mess?" Here, Goldwasser brings together an ensemble of blues virtuosos. Charlie Musselwhite on harmonica, Jim Pugh on keyboards, Kir Fletcher on dual guitars, and Sugaray Rayford lending his incredible vocals. The lyrics cut through the clutter of modern life, questioning the complexities and traps of the world we live in. With a touch of humor and a lot of soul, Goldwasser declares, "Who needs this mess?" – a sentiment many can relate to.
The album maintains its momentum with an excellent instrumental track featuring R.J. Mischo on chromatic harp. "Had a Dream Last Night" stands out not only for its musical brilliance but also for its clever and amusing lyrics. Goldwasser takes a satirical dive into a dream where Donald Trump gets kicked out of the NRA, and Ben Carson is shown the door by the KKK – a testament to the artist's ability to infuse social commentary with humor.
While the album predominantly showcases Goldwasser's guitar prowess and songwriting, it also welcomes guest artists like Charlie Musselwhite, R.J. Mischo, and Sugaray Rayford, enriching the musical tapestry.
As with any album, there are moments that might seem a bit unexpected. "Monkey Junk" stands out as an oddity, possibly disrupting the album's flow. Goldwasser's vocal style, though not overpowering, complements the bluesy narratives, and he lets his guitar do much of the talking.
The closing track, a classic slow blues cover, serves as a poignant finale to this musical journey, accentuating the album's overall strengths.
In essence, Who Needs This Mess? is a testament to Franck L. Goldwasser's excellence as a blues artist. It delivers not only excellent musicianship and clever lyrics but also successful collaborations that elevate the entire listening experience. If you're a blues enthusiast looking for a fresh addition to your collection, Goldwasser's latest offering is a compelling choice that resonates with soulful honesty and guitar brilliance.
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