Cashman – Delta Sound
Pistol Blues Productions – 2023
12 tracks; 41 minutes
In the heart of Texas, where the blues seep into the soil and echo through the pines, Ray Cashman emerges from the Sam Houston National Forest with his latest offering, "Delta Sound." With nine albums under his belt, a history of touring across continents, and a musical journey that spans Austin to Nashville, Cashman brings forth a raw and unfiltered sound that captures the essence of the Delta blues.
Released under Pistol Blues Productions in 2023, "Delta Sound" is a testament to Cashman's musical prowess and storytelling finesse. The album comprises 12 tracks, clocking in at a succinct 41 minutes, offering a stripped-back, electric blues experience that is both authentic and deeply personal.
The opening track, "Checking Out," sets the stage with a cynical glance at the world's trajectory, Cashman's guitar riff leading the charge as he predicts a nosedive straight to hell. With Gary Vincent's steady bass providing a robust backbone, the album delves into themes of love, disillusionment, and societal observations.
In "Just Another Man," Cashman reflects on the evolution of love, acknowledging the inevitable transformation from burning passion to a more somber reality. The pace shifts in "Come On," a tale of seeking attention in the bustling streets, showcasing Cashman's ability to infuse narrative into his bluesy tunes.
A poignant moment arrives with "Flesh & Bones," a heartbreaking account of a town ravaged by floods. Cashman's guitar and dobro weave a tale of tragedy, reminding listeners that beneath the surface, we are all made of flesh and bones. The rocking "Roll Away" follows, with a driving beat and Charlie Barath's harmonica painting a vivid picture of resilience against life's hardships.
The introspective "I Have You" slows the pace, allowing Cashman to grit his teeth against the challenges of existence, finding solace in the company of a loved one. "Feelin' No Pain" introduces a touch of country blues, featuring Austin Walkin' Cane on dobro and delving into the effects of a little yellow pill.
The album takes a self-aware turn with "Narcissistic Blues," a humorous exploration of Cashman's own personality flaws. The narrative deepens in "Around Here," where justice is taken into the hands of a small town, and the bluesy lament "Too Young To Sing The Blues" contemplates the struggles of the homeless.
"Walkin' Shoes" introduces a classic country blues sound, and the album concludes with "Hustle & Flow," a piece of social commentary underscored by Cashman's gritty vocals and Stan Street's tough harmonica.
"Delta Sound" is more than an album; it's a Texan odyssey of grit and blues. Ray Cashman's ability to fuse storytelling with his raw, authentic sound creates a musical journey that resonates with the soul. From the pines of Sam Houston to the bustling streets, Cashman's "Delta Sound" is a testament to the enduring power of the blues in its purest form.
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