2023 – Ruf Records
By Phillip Smith; Nov. 11, 2023
Original source : phillycheezeblues.blogspot.com
I have been enamored by the music of Ghalia Volt since her album with Johnny Mastro and Mamas Boys Let the Demons Out crossed my desk for review five years ago. She is a musical force on guitar and vocals with a mastery of songwriting. Ghalia’s talent shines bright with on her latest release Shout Sister Shout!. The album is loaded with a dozen all-original tracks. Each one is a gem. Backing Ghalia is Danny Frankel on drums/percussion, Ben Alleman on keys, and special guest on guitar David Catching.
With a funky, slide-slathered riff, the record opens with “Every Cloud”. The Ray Manzarek-inspired keys Alleman contributes makes for a groovy touch. “Can’t Afford to Die” pulls me in fast and tight with its upbeat delivery and dire, matter-of-fact lyrics. “Insomnia” is a true masterpiece. Ghalia’s dobro performance is beautifully guided with Alleman’s poly-rhythm beats, setting an Eastern musical landscape for this wonderful blues song. Catching’s cosmic guitar splashes add a psychedelic Pink Floyd feel. The North Mississippi Hill Country sound of “Can’t Have it All” opens up in a genius way. I think of the moment in The Wizard of Oz when Dorothy is instantly transported from a black and white world to one that boasts the full glory of Technicolor. With guitar in hand, Eddie 9V makes a guest stop on “Hop on a Ride” for a searing blues performance fit for a juke-joint.
Shout Sister Shout! is a stellar album that stays strong from beginning to end. It is such a terrific release; I feel it should land Ghalia on several awards lists.
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out other PhillyCheeze reviews for Ghalia Volt at : https://phillycheezeblues.blogspot.com/search?q=Ghalia
