2024 – Nerus Records
By Phillip Smith; Jan. 17, 2025
Original source : phillycheezeblues.blogspot.com
I dig the carefree vibe which
emits from The Hitman Blues Band’s tenth album Calling Long Distance.
This ten-piece ensemble has been a staple of the New York blues scene since forming in 1986. Fronted by Russell “Hitman” Alexander on lead guitar
and vocals, the rest of the band is comprised of Mike Katzman on keys, Mike
Porter on bass, Guy LaFountaine on drums, John Kelly on alto
sax, Tom Mineo on tenor sax, Eric Altarac on trumpet, Al Alpert
on trombone. Also included are backup vocalists Joanna Alexander and Nancy
Hampton and Bob Stander who performs
bass on two tracks.
Making contact with those who have crossed over to the other side oftentimes requires serious hoodoo. Hitman leaves no mojo or spirit-communicating device untried in the spirited, horn-infused blues of title-track “Calling Long Distance”. I absolutely love the amphetamine-fueled instrumental “Blood Alley”. Smoking guitar riffs, a singing organ, and wailing saxophone surf a caffeinated beat for smashing good time. The Hitman does a cool job of retooling Johnny Cash’s “Folsom Prison Blues’ into a real-deal Chicago blues track. The smooth guitar sounds of “Foolish Pride” is riddled with funky licks and a delicious groove. It’s a great song to soak in.
Calling Long Distance is a fun and adventurous listen. I really enjoyed it.
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For more information about the Hitman Blues Band, visit their website https://www.hitmanbluesband.com/
