Mad Dog Blues – River City Roots
Self-Release – 2023
11 tracks; 50 minutes
Mad Dog Blues, the dynamic duo of Mad Dog Friedman on harp/vocals and Sean Bennight on guitar/vocals, hailing from the vibrant musical landscape of Colorado, presents their sixth album, "River City Roots." A nod to the musical legacy of St. Louis, particularly honoring the influences of Lonnie Johnson and Bennie Smith, the album unfolds as a heartfelt tribute to the roots of blues that have shaped the duo's distinctive sound.
With 11 tracks spanning 50 minutes, "River City Roots" showcases the duo's prowess in creating an authentic acoustic blues experience. The album predominantly features original compositions, with seven tracks penned by Mad Dog and three by Sean. One cover, Skip James' "Hard Time Killing Floor Blues," is skillfully reimagined, complemented by the evocative violin work of Lionel Young.
The journey begins with Mad Dog taking the lead on "Harmonica Cadillac," a whimsical reflection on his youth when he roamed the streets playing the harmonica after being banned from playing at home. The atmospherically rich "Shining Through" follows, a leisurely-paced love song adorned with intricate guitar picking and soulful harp fills.
Sean steps into the spotlight with "A Train Blues," a cleverly written love song interwoven with train references, setting the stage for a delightful musical journey. The album introduces explicit content later on, providing a fair warning to those of sensitive disposition.
"Wet Dog" stands out as a country blues gem, featuring a call-and-response chorus and stellar picking by Sean. The sole cover, "Hard Time Killing Floor Blues," is a highlight, showcasing the duo's ability to infuse classic blues with their unique touch.
Mad Dog's "Sweet Daddy" is a charming tune, while Sean's "Rock On" delivers a gritty narrative of perseverance through adversity, expressed in explicit language. Mad Dog's "Too Many Women Blues" draws inspiration from Mama Yancey's classic, presenting a playful take on romantic escapades.
The album's centerpiece, "Holding The Bag Blues," stretches over seven minutes, providing ample space for both musicians to showcase their virtuosity. Sean returns to the microphone for "Down So Long," a dynamic closing track featuring energetic harp work from Mad Dog.
"River City Roots" is an accomplished release that exudes confidence, inviting fans of acoustic blues to immerse themselves in the duo's skillful interpretation of the genre's rich heritage. Mad Dog Blues masterfully combines originality with reverence, creating an album that resonates with authenticity and passion.
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