Tales from the Grooveyard

Album Review

The Roy Hudson Band's sound goes from Delta Blues to Texas blues, and includes some part of everything that is blues in between. That would be one way to describe the music included on this debut album; another would be smokin' hot tunes. With male lead vocals from Dan Hudson and Linda Roy taking female lead vocals, this is an even more appealing compilation. Both singers are of the highest caliber and take their craft very seriously, much to the listeners' delight.

"Walkin' Blues" is one of the better tracks here. With fabulous keyboard work from Jim Boylan and sizzling guitar riffs from Dan Hudson, the song leaves the listener in awe of these amazingly talented artists. It has all of the ingredients that make for a blues tune that will live forever in the hearts of blues fans. On "Bad Man Boogie," echoes of George Thorogood and the Destroyers are brought forth. The guitar work is actually of a higher quality, but the meat and potatoes are from the same "Blue Plate Special." the Tail Gators come to mind as one hears "Movin' On." The powerfully energetic work from the rhythm section, the bluesy male vocals, and the inspiring slide guitar work bring one back to the Bayou air and sounds. "Call Me Baby" treats the listener to some of the best harmonica playing. Drummer Jim Doty has some terrific fills on this piece and gets a chance to showcase his abilities during his solo. The bass player also smokes up the joint with his mad bassline on this hot number.

"D-Jam" closes the album in grand fashion, with guitar phrasings directly out of the Stevie Ray Vaughan library of hot licks; this tune leaves the listener yearning for more of this fabulous band from the deep woods of Maine. Their debut has a comfortable quality with enough originality to get them noticed. If blues is a passion, then this band will get the boat rocking, and keep it rocking all night long.