Paul Boddy & the SlideWinder Blues Band – Nosy Neighbors
Slide Records
12 songs – 42 minutes
Doylestown, PA, becomes the hub of contemporary blues as Paul Boddy & the SlideWinder Blues Band release their latest offering, "Nosy Neighbors." Following their well-received debut EP, "Friends of Tuesday," the quartet delivers a 12-track full-length album that effortlessly weaves Chicago- and Gulf Coast-inspired blues into a captivating musical tapestry. With their distinctive sound and skillful musicianship, SlideWinder proves they are a force to be reckoned with in the blues scene.
Paul Boddy, a British transplant deeply rooted in a musical lineage, leads the band with his rich tenor voice and nimble slide guitar work. His family's involvement in the English music scene, coupled with a 40-year career as a performer, producer, and label owner, has shaped Boddy's musical sensibilities. The SlideWinder Blues Band, in existence for seven years, showcases its veteran lineup, featuring Glenn "The Wizard" Hale on organ and piano, Chuck Hearne on bass, and Dave Hollingsworth on drums. The addition of a dynamic horn section and backup vocals enhances the ensemble's sonic palette.
"Trouble Finds Me Everyday," an original composition that kicks off the album, sets the tone with its steady swing and Boddy's introspective lyrics. The band explores a modern reinterpretation of the Tampa Red classic "Hurts Me Too" before delving into the rock-steady "Hanky Panky Blues," a poignant tale of romantic longing. Boddy channels Elmore James in the infectious "Baby Let’s Try Again," showcasing his prowess on slide guitar.
The title track, "Nosy Neighbors," takes the listener on a journey through a Latin-infused rhythm, telling the story of a cheating partner exposed by vigilant neighbors. "Milk & Cookies" offers an uptempo, nostalgic reflection on childhood lunchbox memories. The band navigates various blues styles, including the jump blues of "Right Way Up," the Johnny Winter-inspired rocker "Blues Is Company," and a soulful rendition of Joe Cocker's "Delta Lady."
The horns shine in "Bells & Whistles," a soulful exploration of a multifaceted woman, and "Jam It In," a bluesy complaint about the grind of daily life. The album concludes with the lively and New Orleans-inspired "Trash Can Head," a testament to SlideWinder's ability to infuse diverse influences into their blues canvas.
"Nosy Neighbors" is a delightful surprise and a true treasure in the contemporary blues landscape. SlideWinder Blues Band not only showcases top-tier musicianship but also presents clever and unique compositions that set them apart in the blues genre. This album is a must-listen for blues enthusiasts seeking a fresh and inventive take on the genre.
Comments