If there was any doubt as to the vibrance of the Blues in 2019, Jimmie Vaughan's new album should lay them all to rest. The sepia-toned photo adorning the cover of this new LP is a perfect indication of the music inside: a familiar swing, old school sounds, and and an reverent approach to the material make the erstwhile blues revivalist one of the best, most authentic connection to the original source.
Far from the guitar acrobatics of his contemporaries, Vaughan's playing is tasteful and restrained: his instrument is not the focus but part of a larger ensemble. It's there to accentuate, highlight, even take flight at times but never at the detriment of the song or the groove. It complements Jimmy's voice and acts as a binding agent with the B3 organ and the horns. That said, the guy knows how to cook. He just doesn't act like a hotshot for the sake of it.
The material is the real star here: some great blues classics like I'm So Glad, Baby Please Come Home alongside lesser-known numbers like Cajun belter Just A Game. The highlight of the record is a slow, jazzy take on I'm Still In Love With You where Jimmie's voice and sharp leads cut through the elegant arrangement with both power and finesse.
Some artists take a genre forward. That's what Jimmie's little brother did in the eighties
. Jimmie Vaughan's mission is to honor the form by keeping the tradition alive, today.
Some artists take a genre forward. That's what Jimmie's little brother did in the eighties
. Jimmie Vaughan's mission is to honor the form by keeping the tradition alive, today.
Genre: Blues
Release Date: May 17th, 2019
Label: The Last Music Company
Rating:8/10
