Seth Rosenbloom – As the Crow Flies
self produced
9 songs, 47 minutes
In the heartland of New England, where the blues echo through the ages, guitarist Seth Rosenbloom emerges as a torchbearer of a new generation with his second full-length album, "As the Crow Flies." Hailing from Waltham, MA, Rosenbloom encapsulates the essence of the region's blues sound—an amalgamation of Chicago march, West Coast swing, Texas shuffle, and a touch of Mass-hole defiance. With a lineup of original compositions, collaborations with local artists, and carefully selected covers, this album not only pays homage to the blues legacy of New England but also offers a glimpse into its evolving future.
"As the Crow Flies" is a sonic journey, unfurling at an unhurried pace, allowing the blues to weave its magic around the listener. Rosenbloom curates a stellar ensemble of musicians, bridging generations and showcasing the rich musical tapestry of New England. The husband-wife duo from the Boston collective Band of Killers, Sonya Rae and Ryan Taylor, lend their prowess on background vocals and guitar, respectively. Duke Robillard Band members Bruce Bears on keys and Mark Teixeira on drums infuse the album with veteran polish, while the bass lines, courtesy of Boston-based Jesse Williams (current North Mississippi All Star), anchor the rhythm section. Vocal contributions from Erica Van Pelt and violin and viola by Michael Rosenbloom and Andra Voldins Dix, respectively, add to the album's multidimensional richness.
The tracklist is a testament to Rosenbloom's keen curation, spanning original compositions and well-chosen covers. "Gotta Roll," a Sonya Rae Taylor composition, sets the tone with its shuffling rhythm and spirited delivery. The darkly resonant "Did You Try to Break My Heart," a co-write by Taylor and Rosenbloom, exudes menace and anguish, showcasing the duo's songwriting prowess. The title track, an interpretation of Tony Joe White's 1972 boogie, brings forth the classic Southern blues-rock vibe with Ryan Taylor's slide guitar echoing
Duane Allman's signature style.
A poignant highlight on the album is "I Wish You Could See Me Now," a soulful piece written by Ronnie Earl and Darrell Nulisch from Ronnie Earl and the Broadcasters' 1990 landmark recording, "Peace of Mind." Rosenbloom pays homage to this gem of Soul Blues, infusing it with modern vitality and making it his own. While he may not match Nulisch's vocal prowess or Earl's guitar virtuosity, Rosenbloom's interpretation carries a distinct authenticity, capturing the essence of the New England Blues legacy.
"As the Crow Flies" is more than a collection of tracks; it's a testament to Rosenbloom's understanding of the blues tradition and his vision for its future. The performances are imbued with emotion and intention, with unhurried tempos allowing for extra grind and swagger. The album is a testament to Rosenbloom's respect for the lessons learned from blues elders and his eagerness to explore the genre's boundless possibilities.
In crafting "As the Crow Flies," Seth Rosenbloom has not only created a great album but also established himself as a compelling figure in the ever-evolving landscape of New England Blues. The music resonates with feeling, intention, and a deep connection to the region's blues roots, presenting a promising glimpse into the future of this enduring genre.
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