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Album Review: Shotgun Sawyer- Self-Titled

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Words by Anselm Anderson


Shotgun Sawyer, based in California, has released their third studio album, a self-titled effort, via Ripple Music last Friday. The trio returns with a new drummer and direction for the better.

Lead vocalist Dylan Jarman is joined by bassist Brett Sanders and the latest drummer Cody Tarbell has transitioned from stoner rock. roots-based outfit to a blues band. The trio combines traditional Chicago and Delta Blues with a modern twist on this nine-track release. The album is a chronicle of the trials and tribulations of Shotgun Sawyer since the turn of the decade, starting with the departure of original drummer David Lee. The band soon took a hiatus after they signed to Ripple Music and released their second album Bury the Hatchet. Patrick Hills of Earth Tone Studios of Sacramento, California assisted in bringing out the best of the band. Hills record a raw, personal, humble improvement of the trio's former releases.

The acquisition of Cody Tarbell, formerly known for Slow Season and Westing, enhances vocalist Dylan Jarman. At the same time, bassist Brett Sanders provides a rhythmic display characterized by strong, groovy bass runs. The album features slow delta blue numbers with heavy Chicago blues, resulting in extensive instrumental breaks and catchy songs. The groove-oriented "Cock and Bull" resembles Howlin' Wolf, exuding swagger and confidence. It creates vivid imagery with harmonica and sliding guitars. Next up is "Bye Bye Baby Boogie" a non-stop slab of rock 'n' roll madness, whilst the album takes a backseat with the soulful "The Sky is Crying" and the nine-minute stoner rock track "Isildur's Bane"

"Master Nasty" regains momentum with an uptempo explosion of desert rock and electric blues, giving the song a favourite on this release. Jarman excels as a guitarist, alongside his vocal duties, he delivers slick and skilfully riffs, evoking memories of his childhood influences.

The album concludes with the dark blues on "Tired" and the slow Chicago blues number"That's How it Goes", which sounds like a cathartic exercise for Shot Gun Sawyer.

Overall, this self-titled edition is a welcome return for a band, which seemed lost after the pandemic. They resume with a newfound confidence and understanding of their roots. ShotGun Sawyer is an album for blues enthusiasts and fans of something new.

Shotgun Sawyer lineup
Dylan Jarman - Guitars & Vocals
Brett Sanders - Bass
Cody Tarbell - Drums
The album also features Patrick Hills (keys), Brian Souders (harmonica) and Jacob Hurst (waterphone).

Shotgun Sawyer links
Facebook⎪Bandcamp⎪Instagram⎪Spotify

Ripple Music links
Website⎪Facebook⎪Bandcamp⎪Instagram

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Copyright: Anselm Anderson ©

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