2019 – E-H Records LLC
By Phillip Smith; July 20, 2019
It has been over two years since I fell head-over-heels
for Eliza Neals’ 10,000 Feet Below
album. But, after hearing her latest EP Sweet
or Mean, I find the wait has been worth it.
This time around, Neals
teamed up with New York bluesman Ted Horowitz
aka Popa Chubby. Horowitz not
only plays guitar on this release, but also takes on the role of
producer/arranger. Comprising the remainder
of the band is Dave Keyes on
B3/piano/Wurlitzer, Chris Gambaro-Vega on
bass, and John Medeiros Jr.
on drums.
This six-track release opens and closes with two
smokin’ variations of “Pawn Shop Blues”, a ripping original tune, written by Neals. Her fearless
delivery stands tall as Popa Chubby lays
down a searing slab of blues on electric guitar. Saxophonist Ian Hendrickson
and trumpeter Michael Leonhart appear
on one version, while “Pawn Shop Blues (roadhouse)” features barrelhouse piano from
Keyes. Vega
and Medeiros create a captivating groove
on “Blackish Gray”, which swiftly pulls me into its orbit. Songs like this encourage me to put Neals at the top of my list of favorites. There is certainly a positive chemistry between
her and Ted when it comes to playing
the blues. Eliza sings
her autobiographical power-anthem “Bitten by the Blues” with a soulful, rock-star
delivery. The hook is very infectious and
sounds great with Popa Chubby’s
tantalizing guitar licks. I love the
delta-flavored acoustic “Knock Knock Knocking” too. It’s raw and fabulous.
Sweet or Mean is a terrific six-track EP. It’s definitely worth checking out, if you dig the blues.
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PhillyCheeze Rock & Blues Review for Eliza Neals - 10,000 Feet Below : https://phillycheezeblues.blogspot.com/2017/04/eliza-neals-10000-feet-below.html
