A blog that reviews and interviews the best upcoming bands from the land of rock and metal.
Translate
ALBUM OF THE WEEK: THE BUDDY BLAKE BAND- RIPTIDE
Get link
Facebook
X
Pinterest
Email
Other Apps
-
PHOTO CREDIT: PRESS
Words by Anselm Anderson
Floridian rockers' The Buddy Blake Band are due to release upcoming album Riptide this Spring. The album was recorded live in front of 5 laptops at Mallory Music studios and produced by Byn Johns.
The Buddy Blake Band consists of Blake Bell ( Vocals/Rhythm Guitar) Buddy Bolter ( Vocals. Lead Guitar), Bob Matheson ( Drums) and Tom Mcmillan ( Bass). The band have been performing for over twenty years and are profoundly influenced by leading figures in the classic rock world such as led Zeppelin, Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers. The Allman Brothers and many more.
Riptide is an eleven-track album with those influences on display. The combination of guitar-driven rock, intelligent songwriting and powerful vocals certainly doesn't disappoint
The Self- titled opener is a throwback to seventies power trio pop-rock. Lead vocalist Blake Bell is the accomplished frontman with heartily cries of a relationship resonate with pounding drums and a steady rhythm section. Bell and Lead guitarist Buddy Bolter trade licks through the delicate basslines.
Leon is a funky track full of charm and enthusiasm. The mixture of screeching guitars interplay with a groove- orientated bassline that reminds this writer of Primus.
Evelyn is a resounding tribute to, what I think maybe, about a childhood sweetheart. TBBB raise the tempo with crunchy guitar riffs and vivid imagery. The band choose not to stick with one " Type " of song, but rather experiment with various styles. This certainly adds to the appeal and keeps the listener interested.
Ugly is a track about the difficulties in finding a job. I believe it is a sentiment most readers can relate all too well. The band attach storytelling to instrumental guitar breaks and wistful vocals that add to the frustrations. TBBB succeed the most on this outing with a style of writing that describes many people's situations with delightful riffs.
and finally, You're Free wraps up with this contemplative song about not feeling held down. Blake Bell's cathartic cries are matched by melodic riffs and steady drumming by Bob Matheson.
Overall, Riptide is an enjoyable listen through various aspects of perceptive lyrics, staunch guitar work, and a wholesome togetherness that exudes on the recordings.
Riptide is due out March/ April 2021 via online platforms.
Photo Credit: Chris Griffiths of Riff Photos Interview conducted by Anselm Anderson Good evening, Ross. Congratulations on your latest release, The Blood and the Blues. How has the reception been so far? Ross – Thank you kindly. It’s been good so far. I feel like my music is slow-burning. It may take time to resonate with the right audiences, but when it does, it’s potent. It sits in an in-between place between Blues audiences and fans of darker types of music. The lyrical content can be heavy, uncomfortable at times. It’s art. This makes it slightly niche, I guess. It’s not for everyone, and I am at peace with that. People have come back to my shows, bought the album, and I’m seeing audiences build up all over the UK, so clearly something is working. The album was released in November, providing listeners with a few months to engage with it. Could you elaborate on how the album will connect with your forthcoming UK tour? Ross – The overarching motif of my whole creative process at ...
Written by Anselm Anderson Today, Alter Bridge releases their eighth studio album . The self-titled release features twelve tracks of their most deeply personal and heaviest material since 2007's Blackbird album. "Alter Bridge" follows up 2022's critically Acclaimed Pawn and Kings , and is once again produced by Michael 'Elvis' Baskette at his legendary 5150 studios in Los Angeles . He consistently brings out the best in the band with his keen ear for their nuances. This is true for Alter Bridge. Baskette emphasises the band's strengths as writers and musicians, with the group aiming for a harder rock sound. They express more meaning and emotion compared to their previous albums. The songs feel darker, featuring a dark sound with more emphasis on solos and memorable riffs. In this release, guitarist Mark Tremonti takes centre stage with dual vocals on two tracks: ' Trust in Me ' and ' Tested and Able .' His quiet, melodic vocals ble...
Photo Courtesy of Chris Griffiths/Riff Photos Edited by Anselm Anderson Today, Award-winning Blues-Rock guitarist Ross Harding Announced New 2026 Live Dates for ‘ The Blood & The Blues’ UK Tour, which will see him continue to take his darker bluesy rock & roll throughout the UK in 2026. Ross Harding had a successful 2024, performing throughout the UK in cities such as Newcastle , Glasgow , Bracknell , London , Southampton , Woking , and Kingsbridge . He showcased his talent in various formats, including Solo Acoustic , Unplugged Band , and Full Electric Band . The full electric band performances will now be held under the name “Ross Harding & The Dark Blues.” However, the exceptional musicianship, captivating songs, and distinctive dark blues rock sound will continue to shine. ‘The Blood and The Blues’ UK Tour will begin with live dates from late January 2026 onwards. New dates are set to be announced once confirmed, so keep an eye on Ross’s socia...
Awesome sound, great talent.
ReplyDelete