Mike Zito & Albert Castiglia – Blood Brothers
Gulf Coast Records – 2023
11 tracks; 48 minutes
Blues aficionados rejoice as two blues powerhouses, Mike Zito and Albert Castiglia, join forces on their collaborative album "Blood Brothers." Released under Zito's Gulf Coast Records label in 2023, the album is a masterful blend of originals and covers, showcasing the musical synergy between these two seasoned artists.
Recorded at Dockside Studio in Louisiana, the album features a stellar band combining the regular sidemen from both Zito and Castiglia. The lineup includes Lewis Stephens on keys, Doug Byrkit on bass, and Matt Johnson on drums from Zito's band, and Ephraim Lowell on drums from Castiglia's. Additional contributors include Lemar Carter on drums, Calvin Turner on bass, and a horn section featuring Steve Patrick, Mike Haynes, Jimmy Bowland, Jonathan Salcedo, and Matt Jefferson. Backing vocals come courtesy of Jade Macrae and Danielle DeAndrea, while guitar virtuosos Josh Smith and Joe Bonamassa make noteworthy guest appearances.
The album kicks off with the infectious energy of "Hey Sweet Mama," a Zito original that sets the tone for the dynamic collaboration. Both artists share vocal duties while trading fiery guitar solos, making it a standout track and an excellent choice for the album's lead single. The emotional depth of "In My Soul," written by Zito during his wife's battle with cancer, is palpable. The song builds from an acoustic introduction to a powerful, soulful anthem, showcasing the artists' vocal and instrumental prowess.
Castiglia takes the lead on "Fool Never Learns," a mid-paced blues-rock gem with a big band feel, courtesy of the horn section. Fred James contributes two tracks, with "Tooth And Nail" providing a rocked-up slide guitar take on Sonny Boy Williamson's "Help Me." Another James composition, "You're Gonna Burn," is a slow blues masterpiece featuring dramatic drum work and Castiglia's emotive vocals.
Castiglia's own composition, "A Thousand Heartaches," is a ballad that demonstrates his songwriting depth. The track features warm organ, delicate piano, and backing vocals, creating a poignant atmosphere. Graham Wood Drout's "Bag Me, Tag Me, Take Me Away" is a rocker with a humorous twist, depicting a musician's dedication to the craft until the very end. The duo delivers a rapid-fire version of John Hiatt's "My Business" with fiery slide guitar work.
The album closes on a high note with Zito's "No Good Woman," a cautionary rocker warning of the perils of such relationships. "Hill Country Jam," credited to Zito and Josh Smith, stands out as an instrumental showcase, with the two guitarists exchanging fiery choruses over an evolving soundscape. "One Step Ahead Of The Blues," a JJ Cale song, provides a fitting conclusion, seamlessly transitioning between acoustic and electric renditions.
"Blood Brothers" is a testament to the camaraderie and musical brilliance of Mike Zito and Albert Castiglia. With outstanding performances and a diverse array of blues styles, the album promises a thrilling experience for blues enthusiasts. As Zito and Castiglia embark on their tour, this collaboration is sure to be a highlight for fans of both artists and the genre as a whole.
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