Here we have a new album from New Jersey-based bluesman Al Gold, which certainly doesn’t sound as if it is brand new (apart from the sound) as this is old school blues with nothing fancy, just plenty of emotion and strut. Working alongside him is his band the Suburban Rhythm Kings featuring drummer Jerry Cordasco, guitarist Tom Rice and bassist Terry Hemmer. They have worked together (and with others) for many years and they know just how to settle into the groove and let the blues take control. Al also brought in a load of guests in guitarist Mitch Eisenberg, jazz organist Jared Gold, pianist Eric Heilner, guitarist/singer Cassidy Rain, saxophonist Baron Raymond, multi-instrumentalist, Johnny Sansone, jazz guitarist Dave Stryker (who I see on a great many albums, he is obviously a massively in demand session player), plus singer/songwriter and guitarist Anthony Tamburro and bassist V.d. King (who also recorded and mixed the album).
With this many musicians on board, in what looks like a very cramped space indeed from the photos, it is somewhat surprising to see that the album only took 3 days to record. I guess Al and his band laid down the tracks really quickly, allowing the others to then provide their elements over the top. Al provides electric and slide guitar plus mandolin, while his vocals have that lived-in feel of so many classic blues musicians. I get the feeling the guys just plugged in, played their set, and then went and had lunch as this has a live feeling to it, as they react to each other and just kick the groove along. It was then easy for the rest to finesse. The sound is just a little too clean and sanitised at times, and the album does feel like it would have benefited from a little more muddying of the waters, but anyone who enjoys the work of Mr. McKinley Morganfield could well find something of real interest here. Up until now I had no idea what New Jersey blues sounds like, but now I do I want to hear more.
Rating: 7/10
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Track list:
1. That’s My Baby
2. Paradise (Downhome)
3. Tramps Take Linden
4. Mr. Banker
5. Rambling Pony Blues
6. Boogie In the Dark
7. Got A Mind
8. Won’t Sleep Tonight
9. Paradise (Uptown)
10. Maplehood Limbo
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