Mattias Malm – Electric Avenue
Self-produced CD
No website
12 songs – 36 minutes In the vibrant realm of blues, where tradition meets innovation, Swedish guitarist Mattias Malm has once again captivated audiences with his latest offering, "Electric Avenue."
The self-produced CD, comprising 12 tracks over 36 minutes, sees Malm transition from his acclaimed solo work into a full-band format, delivering a homage to the Mississippi Hill Country blues that he holds dear.
Malm, based in Malmö, Sweden, gained recognition for his solo effort, "Malm on Burnside," a musical tribute to his hero, R.L. Burnside. Now, with "Electric Avenue," he takes a bold step into a new sonic territory, enlisting the talents of fellow musicians to enrich his distinctive style.
The album opens with the familiar twang of Hill Country blues in "Goin' Down South," immediately setting the tone for what lies ahead. The addition of Magnus Østvang's Wurlitzer and Hammond organs, Tomas Melau's harmonica, Pontus Snibb on percussion, Thomas Larsen on bass, and Yvette Eklund on backing vocals transforms Malm's sound into a fuller, more dynamic experience.
Malm's affinity for R.L. Burnside is evident as he navigates through four consecutive Burnside numbers, each bearing his unique signature. The inclusion of electric guitar and diverse influences infuse a new energy into the traditional Hill Country feel. Yvette Eklund's vocal contributions add depth, creating a pendulum-like swing in "Goin' Down South" and a fresh perspective on the call-and-response dynamic in "Fireman Ring the Bell."
The album takes unexpected turns, showcasing Malm's versatility and willingness to experiment. "Someday Baby" and a rendition of Jimmy Reed's "You Don't Have to Go" skillfully blend North Mississippi rhythms with Chicago flair, demonstrating Malm's ability to seamlessly merge different blues traditions.
Malm's adept picking skills shine in his rendition of Doc Watson's "Deep River Blues," followed by an uptempo reinterpretation of the classic "Pallet on the Floor." These reinterpretations, though rooted in tradition, bear Malm's distinct mark, offering a unique listening experience.
The album culminates in a triumphant cascade of blues classics, including a spirited version of R.L. Burnside's "Poor Black Mattie" and a fiery cover of Son House's "Walking Blues." The journey concludes with two more Burnside numbers, "Miss Maybelle" and "Longhaired Doney," leading into a poignant rendition of John Lee Hooker's "When My First Wife Left Me."
While the song list may raise eyebrows with its array of familiar covers, "Electric Avenue" transcends expectations. For fans of Hill Country blues, Malm's approach breathes new life into each tune, presenting a fresh perspective on beloved classics. The album, available as a digital download from multiple online vendors, is a testament to Mattias Malm's artistry and his ability to honor tradition while carving out his unique niche in the blues landscape.
Comments