24/01/2018

EP Review:The NaveBlues- Self- Titled Release



The Nave Blues hail from Bergen, Norway and are fronted by the multi-talented vocalist/harmonica player Nave Pudnik. a man that aims "intention of becoming the blues you will come to know; Something different, yet familiar " a brand of modern blues combined with Alternative rock. Pudnik promises to make music an “oasis for the masses”. The brand of Blues he aims to create does not disappoint on this half-hour, 7 track debut with a solid display of soulful crooning, tasty guitar licks, and sonic harmonica play. This EP is a delightful insight into the crossover of classic ebbing towards modern blues. 



The opener Sexy Kiss is accompanied by an audiovisual to legendary harmonica player Little Walter, an inspiration to the lead vocalist, and who was inducted into the rock and roll hall of fame in 2008. A blazing roar of that favoured instrument signals the intent with the juxtaposition of sultry vocals that interact between Pudnik and his female counterpart that oozes the bravado of a delta blues track. The combination of modern rock with classic blues is a strong dynamic that works with the music here. It is the mercurial abilities of Pudnik on the harmonica that captures the essence. He controls the instrument like it was his voice with the ability to alter his emotion through that acts as a purveyor throughout the remaining tracks.

 This is evident in the follow-up track Say My Name. A slow burner that feels reflective in the mood of the track and a beautiful multi-layered track that leaves you drifting through the clouds above. In a Quiet Place, A piano-soaked song has Pudnik and his counterpart reflecting on their thoughts that would not be out of place in a smoke-filled jazz lounge, Early in the morning is the standout track of separation has the frontman in a sonic mode with his harmonica playing centre stage in tandem with a slick guitar solo that whips into a frenzy that underlies the overall nature of the album. Thank you is a Led Zeppelin cover rich in melody and tenderness,

The album closes with The Ghost Collector , a rowdy 4-min jam session of frenzied blues, lung-busting harmonica of harmonica play and power chords that rouse the listener into a manic foot-stomping spell Tender Rose is a sweet and touching song finale with all the raw emotion and soul that wraps up an enjoyable half-hour lesson in the evolution of a new blues movement.


Words by Anselm Anderson

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