Liverpool Sound and Vision Rating * * * *
If the Blues was dying a death in the latter half of the 20th Century for many of the younger fans, then the resurgence, the resurrection of the genre has all been but complete in the last couple of years as a new breed of musician lends their talent and obvious muscle to the music in what can only be seen as the type of hold that a wrestler would employ to make sure the target of their obsession never let go again.
With giants now striding the stage for the 21st Century Blues, it is only right that others also be seen to add their own voice and distinctive sense of enjoyment to the growing list and for The Blues Overdrive and their latest album Clinch, the timing of the genre being seen as lean, mean and fighting fit, coincides neatly with this musically edifying release.
The new songs that make up the album are slowly hypnotic, they dangle themselves squarely in the face of the listener and with ease of a pick pocket whose sleight of hand and soothing charm makes a master illusionist wonder where they went wrong in life, the rhythm digs deep into the psyche and grows without contempt and with natural magnetism.
Charm will only get you so far in life, it always requires something more to keep it above board and away from the sleazy side of town, and for members of The Blues Overdrive, it is in the very personal belief and outward gratifying pulse of their work that makes them such an attractive listen.
Tracks such as Three Time Lover, Rolling Thunder, the absolutely superb Woman of Love and the feeling of relentless abandon in Daughter of the Devil the charisma and the eternal seem to shake hands and grapple with meaningful intent; such should be the way of all things.
Artistically enjoyable, a voice that deserves to be heard and a selection of musical grandeur that is befitting the very best, a great achievement and one of bliss!
Ian D. Hall