Tommy Castro, a Blues Music Award winner and musical monster, has just released a new album entitled Tommy Castro Presents The Legendary Rhythm & Blues Revue — Live!. Tommy brings a few of his closest friends along for the live Blues Cruise recordings; Michael Burks, Trampled Under Foot, Janiva Magness, Joe Louis Walker, Debbie Davies, Rick Estrin, Theodis Ealey and Sista Monica Parker all contribute a track to the Revue. Like we’ve said before about live albums, it’s hard to capture lightning in a bottle, or rather on a record, but Blues Revue — Live! does it to perfection, setting the bar high with hot horn sections, vocal powerhouses and wild solos.
Castro’s “Wake Up Call”, recorded live on the Legendary Rhythm and Blues Cruise, is oozing with funk as the crowd gets energized. The rhythm is slick and catchy, staying long after the song’s over, and Tommy’s punchy guitar solos chill the spine. The dynamic family band Trampled Under Foot delivers the soul-filled original “Fog”. Danielle’s vocals are smooth, deep and incredible. It’s no surprise TUF was 2008’s IBC winner. Rick Estrin’s humorous “My Next Ex-Wife” is backed by a strong horn section and Rick’s always impressive harmonica prowess.
Overall, this is one of the most commanding live albums of the year, in any genre. The energy coming from every track is infectious. The music absolutely rocks and with tracks like this, it’s easy to see why thousands flock to the Legendary Rhythm & Blues Cruise every year.
Find Tommy Castro Presents The Legendary Rhythm & Blues Revue — Live! At Alligator Records
