Browsing: Ruf Records

A blend of Mississippi Hill Country blues, European born rock n roll, a stable full of uber-talented musicians, all led by a powerhouse woman who clearly gets what she wants, and gives us what we love.

Studio trickery was not an option for a dues-paying bluesman who sings every line from his soul.

‘Texas Honey’ proves once again the soulful vocal, burn-it-down fretwork and heart-on-sleeve songcraft of Venable has made Texas hers for the taking.

Pejak’s “Nature of the Blues,” the album’s lead-off track, is a 60s surf-inspired song, with vocals that purr and funky electric piano from another era.

St. Louis, and Houston (because hey, what’s blues without a wee bit of Texas in there somewhere?) flavor his blues. Rock and Roll and Country can clearly be heard in there as well.

“We named it after the Rory Gallagher song, which I also cover on the album,” Sky says. “Rory is one of my favorite players. He has a special place in my heart.”

“When we go out and play this music live, people are just dancing. They’re smiling. Their hands are clapping and their arms are up. That’s our goal. That’s why we do what we do.” – Victor Wainwright

‘First Class Life’ brings Zito full-circle. Mike Zito’s return to the blues is, in a word, triumphant!

“…sometimes it takes hitting the gutter to realize how good you got it when you get back up.” – Mike Zito

Did we say this could be in contention for album of the year? ‘Victor Wainwright and the Train’ will undoubtedly be in the running.