Peter Veteska & Blues Train – Full Tilt
Blue Heart Records BHR 056
12 songs – 46 minutes
Peter Veteska & Blues Train are back, and this time they're hitting the tracks with "Full Tilt," a powerhouse blues album that effortlessly melds East Coast elegance with raw, unbridled energy. Released under Blue Heart Records, this marks the seventh album for the New Jersey-based ensemble, and they've certainly pulled out all the stops.
The quartet, led by the eponymous Peter Veteska on vocals and lead guitar, along with Alex D'Agnese and Coo Moe Jhee on drums and bass, delivers a polished yet soulful performance. While they may be a trio at the core, their dynamic sound is enriched by a lineup of exceptional musicians from the region, elevating their blues into a realm of complex arrangements and irresistible charm.
"Full Tilt" is a departure from the band's usual approach, recorded live with minimal overdubs at Shorefire Recording Studios in New Jersey, under the keen eye of co-producer Joseph DeMaio. The result? An album that not only captures the essence of their live prowess but also showcases their musical finesse and commitment to delivering an authentic blues experience.
The ensemble's chemistry is evident from the opening track, "Go Find Another Man," a driving shuffle that sets the stage for what's to come. Veteska's vocals and searing guitar work, complemented by Mikey Jr.'s reed expertise, create a sonic landscape that demands attention. The blues narrative continues with "I Wasn't Wrong," a deep shuffle that explores the complexities of relationships, delivered with intensity and finesse.
"Sad and Blue" slows down the tempo, offering a torch song that allows Veteska to bare his soul, supported by Jeff Levine's evocative Hammond B3 organ. The journey takes an electrifying turn with a reimagined cover of Albert King's "I Get Evil," featuring powerful horn accents throughout. "Pack of Lies" keeps the momentum going, unraveling a tale of love gone sour.
Jen Barnes steps into the spotlight with "2:00 in the Morning," an uptempo rocker that showcases her vocal prowess alongside Veteska. The album takes an unexpected turn with a Blues Train twist on The Beatles' "One After 999," where Peter and Mikey Jr. share the mic, infusing the classic with their bluesy flavor.
The blues voyage continues with "Take Back What You Own," a duet featuring Jen, exuding a sense of urgency and passion. Jeff Levine takes a soul-stirring solo journey down memory lane with a cover of James Cox's 1920s masterpiece, "Nobody Knows You When You're Down and Out." The temperature rises with "Slow Down You Crazy Fool," a showcase for Veteska's guitar and vocal prowess.
"Man About Town," an intense instrumental, adds a layer of intrigue before the ensemble delivers a stripped-down take on Johnny Moore's "Merry Christmas Baby" to close the album on a soulful note.
"Full Tilt" is another testament to the brilliance of Peter Veteska & Blues Train. Their ability to seamlessly blend tradition with innovation, coupled with a magnetic stage presence, deserves widespread recognition. With this album, they've once again proven that when it comes to blues, they're running at full tilt, leaving an indelible mark on the genre.
Comments