Nigel Mack's "Back In Style": A Blues Odyssey with a Canadian Twist

Nigel Mack – Back In Style

Blues Attack Records

http://www.nigelmack.com

12 Tracks – 47 minutes Nigel Mack, the Canadian blues maestro, unleashes a storm of electrifying blues with his latest album, "Back In Style." Mackenzie, as he's officially known, has been a prominent figure in the blues scene, especially in Chicago, where he relocated from Canada in 2003. With "Back In Style," Mack showcases his musical prowess, offering a mix of original contemporary blues that's both authentic and thoroughly enjoyable.

The album kicks off with the invigorating "Traveling Heavy," setting the tone for the journey ahead. Nigel's harmonica takes center stage, accompanied by Daryl Coults' B3 and piano, creating a sound that's both dynamic and foot-tapping. The blues journey continues with "Highway 69," a tale of adventure and revelry along this iconic roadway, infused with Nigel's slide guitar mastery.

In "Damn You Mr. Bluesman," Nigel explores the theme of love reignited by the blues, delivering a heartfelt performance complemented by Daryl Coults' skillful B3 runs. The narrative takes an intriguing turn with "Cold Comfort," a love story set against the backdrop of Las Vegas, where a singer and a chorus line dancer cross paths for a brief but intense encounter. Marty Sammons, who sadly passed away recently, adds his magic on the B3 and piano, leaving an indelible mark on this poignant track.

"Graveyard Gate" takes a darker turn as Nigel laments a love gone awry, accompanied by haunting harmonica wails and the brass brilliance of Victor Garcia's trumpet and Lise Gilly's saxophone. The subtle but effective use of a creaking gate at the end adds a touch of cinematic drama to this blues narrative.

The titular track, "Back in Style," exudes confidence and charisma as Nigel celebrates the joy of being a "lover man" and revels in the infectious energy of the music scene. The instrumental "Redemption" provides a moment of reflection with its slow, slightly country-inflected ballad, showcasing Nigel's versatility.

"A Place to Call Home" returns with a horn-driven vigor, led by Nigel's dominating slide guitar. The acoustic charm of "Blues Enough for You" follows, with Nigel on a 1929 acoustic National steel guitar, delivering a soulful reflection on life on the road.

"Shangri-La Girl" injects a dose of rock into the album, with Nigel expressing admiration for a saxophone-playing muse. The swampy vibe of "Jalapeno Peppers" adds spice to the mix, featuring Nigel's expressive slide guitar and a tale of a woman in a tight red sweater enjoying a fiery snack.

The album concludes with "Just One Man," a late-night blues escapade where Nigel, in his characteristic style, narrates encounters with irresistible women. The closing track, "In the Morning," acknowledges the ephemeral nature of the night's revelry.

"Back In Style" is a testament to Nigel Mack's mastery of blues instruments and his ability to craft engaging narratives. His voice, both expressive and captivating, weaves tales that resonate with blues aficionados. The album's theme of chasing women adds a touch of familiarity to the blues odyssey, making it an easily relatable and thoroughly enjoyable experience for listeners.