Mike Guldin And Rollin’ & Tumblin’ – The Franklin Sessions
Blue Heart Records – 2023
11 tracks; 48 minutes
In the rich tapestry of blues, Mike Guldin And Rollin’ & Tumblin’ return with their latest offering, "The Franklin Sessions," a compelling 11-track collection that effortlessly weaves through blues, soul, and Southern-tinged tunes. Following the success of their 2022 release, "Tumblin’," this new album marks another milestone in the Pennsylvania-based guitarist's journey.
For "The Franklin Sessions," Mike Guldin headed to Kevin McKendree’s Rock House studio in Franklin, Tennessee, capturing the essence of two distinct recording sessions. The first session in 2021 featured a band assembled by Kevin, including James Pennebaker on guitar, David Santos on bass, and Yates McKendree on drums. The second session in 2022 saw Mike's regular band, Rollin’ & Tumblin’, taking the reins, featuring Bill Sharrow on bass, Tim Hooper and Kevin on keys, Billy Wear on drums, and Yates on guitar and lap steel. The diverse lineup extends with guest appearances by Mikey Junior on harmonica, Su Teears on duet vocals, The McCrary Sisters on backing vocals, and the Philadelphia Funk Authority Horns adding brass to two tracks.
The album kicks off with the infectious "The Franklin Shuffle," a celebration of the studio's influence, marked by a catchy shuffle rhythm, Kevin's piano, and Mike's solid guitar work.
This sets the tone for the journey through originals and blues classics. "Prisoner Of Love" introduces a soulful atmosphere with the horns, Kevin's piano, and Yates's guitar, while "Sad And Lonely" delivers a Southern-tinged tune enriched with Tim Hooper's piano and James Pennebaker’s guitar.
The later session introduces more original compositions, including the driving shuffle "Gettin’ Over You Is Workin’ Over Me," where Mike's gruff vocals and stellar guitar work shine. "Two Hearts" stands out as a soulful duet with Su Teears, featuring infectious rhythms and brass accents by the Philadelphia Funk Authority Horns. The McCrary Sisters lend their gospel harmonies to the poignant "The Right Thing," a standout track with Mike's excellent vocal performance, backed by Tim and Kevin's piano and organ magic.
The blues classics injected into the album showcase Mike's reverence for the genre. Muddy Waters' "Blow Wind Blow" receives a vibrant interpretation with solid guitar work and organ grooves. Sleepy John Estes' "Divin’ Duck Blues" features Mikey Jr's wailing harp, adding a timeless blues touch. Howling Wolf's "Killin’ Floor" concludes the blues trifecta, with Mike skillfully handling the iconic riff, while the band provides a solid rhythmic foundation.
"The Franklin Sessions" is another testament to Mike Guldin And Rollin’ & Tumblin’s ability to deliver a diverse and engaging blues experience. From the spirited originals to the well-executed blues classics, the album showcases their musical prowess and genuine love for the genre. With memorable hooks, expressive vocals, and stellar instrumentation, "The Franklin Sessions" cements Mike Guldin's status as a blues artist to watch.
Comentarios