Tommy Castro and the Painkillers – 鈥楾he Devil You Know鈥�
If you are looking to kick off the new year with a heavy dose of contemporary blues, soul and rock, the latest offering by Tommy Castro is the proper prescription.
As a young guitarist growing up in California, Castro was inspired by Eric Clapton, Wilson Pickett, Buddy Guy, Ray Charles and Elmore James.
A favorite in the Bay Area, the award-winning guitarist, vocalist and songwriter has become one of the more popular artists on the contemporary music scene today.
Leading his newly formed band made up of bassist Randy McDonald, keyboardist James Pace and drummer David Tucker, Castro鈥檚 exquisite guitar work drives the 13-song blues bonanza of passionate, insightful and energetic compositions.
Released by Alligator Records, 鈥淭he Devil You Know鈥� possesses plenty of bite with an assortment of artists contributing to the feel and flavor of the sound.
The title track sets the stage for what is to follow with a raw and gritty performance of first-rate musicianship.
Guitar great Joe Bonamassa joins Castro and unleashes a Stevie Ray Vaughan vibe on the smoldering cut called 鈥淚鈥檓 Tired.鈥�
The Cajun influence of Louisiana鈥檚 own Tab Benoit is showcased through Benoit鈥檚 searing guitar and soulful vocals on the rousing 鈥淲hen I Cross the Mississippi.鈥�
The Holmes Brothers and blues harpist Magic Dick (J. Geils Band) are featured on the blistering rocker 鈥淭wo Steps Forward.鈥�
A strong female presence is well represented with the smooth R&B vocal stylings of Tasha Taylor on 鈥淭he Whale Have Swallowed Me鈥� and the vocal versatility of Samantha Fish on the spirited 鈥淢edicine Woman.鈥�
With 鈥淭he Devil You Know,鈥� Castro firmly secures his modern-day blues reputation in a convincingly powerful manner.
Castro will make an area appearance on Feb. 9 at Moondog鈥檚 in Blawnox.