Blues in My Soul

Hard driving blues-rock in the mood of Johnny Winter, Mountain, Cream, and Hendrix, Bryce Janey's new power trio CD will stop guitar aficionados in their tracks. A mixture of original tunes and well-chosen covers, Janey shows taste and restraint — as well as let-it-all-hang-out, over-the-top flair, ability, and expertise. For the most part, the CD is a high energy party, with Janey showing off what he's got: And what he's got is guitar chops that are not easily matched. He is equally proficient in slide guitar and straight playing, showing influences that include the Allman Brothers and Derek Trucks, but also Joe Bonamassa and Gary Moore. His singing shows maturity and experience, often bringing to mind Howlin' Wolf. But his playing is anything but old time blues — it is progressive blues for a new era. It is the direction that old school virtuosos would go in if they were around today. Thankfully, Janey is here to stay, and his playing just gets better and better. — Steve Rosen.