Weezil Malone Band – Desert Drive-In
Independent – 2022
12 tracks: 59 minutes
The Weezil Malone Band, hailing from the musical hotbed of Grand Rapids, Michigan, unleashes a powerhouse of blues diversity in their latest album, "Desert Drive-In." Clocking in at 59 minutes across 12 tracks, this independent release is a sonic journey that seamlessly weaves together funk, groove, traditional blues, Delta slide, and hard-hitting rock, proving that the intersection of genres is where the magic truly happens.
Led by Larry Fitzgerald, known by his stage moniker Weezil Malone, the band embraces the title of "The ROCKIN’EST little band to come ROLLIN’ through town," and their latest album serves as an emphatic reaffirmation of the enduring vitality of rock-n-roll and the blues.
Fitzgerald, with over four decades of musical experience, stands as a testament to the longevity of a true music lover. His passion for songwriting, storytelling, and character creation shines through in "Desert Drive-In," delivering a collection of stories that unravel the ironies of life and the diverse characters encountered on our collective journey.
Reflecting on his musical odyssey, Fitzgerald recalls invaluable advice from blues luminary Lonnie Brooks, urging him to persist out of love for the craft, not for monetary gain or adulation. "Just keep doing what you’re doing because you love it," Brooks advised, counsel that Fitzgerald cherishes as the best he's received in 40 years.
Recorded live at River City Studios in Grand Rapids and produced by Fitzgerald and Austin Mark Ruhstorfer, "Desert Drive-In" is a testament to the band's commitment to an authentic, live sound. Fitzgerald takes the reins, handling vocals and guitar work, while the ensemble includes Dave Alves on bass, Karl Schantz on drums, and Dan Giacobassi on saxophone.
The funk-infused journey kicks off with "Children of Night," featuring Schantz's pulsating bass drum and Giacobassi's brassy sax on "Easier to Steal." The title track, "Desert Drive-In," showcases Alves' thumping bass and Fitzgerald's mesmerizing guitar, creating an irresistible groove. "Walk Away From Me" introduces a playful bar boogie-style number with a gritty guitar intro.
"Tattoo Lady" stands out as a guitar-heavy, gritty narrative, and "Whiskey" continues the band's penchant for intricate storytelling, complemented by Fitzgerald's masterful lead guitar work. The traditional blues side of the band comes to the forefront with tracks like "Take It Away," a rambling road trip anthem, "I Slowed Down" with its cool intro and solid refrain, and the juke-styled "Enough Is Enough," featuring Fitzgerald's smooth slide guitar and finger-picking.
In the band's own words, "there is more to all of us than just the image we portray," and this sentiment holds true for the multifaceted Weezil Malone Band. "Desert Drive-In" is a testament to their ability to transcend genres, delivering a blues-infused symphony that unveils hidden layers and moral tales in every note. This, indeed, is the rockin'est little band around any town, leaving an indelible mark on the musical landscape.
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