2022 – Kim & Brian
By Phillip Smith; Feb. 4, 2023
Release Date : Dec. 18, 2022
Original source : phillycheezeblues.blogspot.com
Kim
& Brian, a blues act from Tacoma,
Washington, has recently caught my attention in a large positive way. Comprised of Kim Archer and Brian
Feist, the duo have been playing and writing songs together since 2019. In 2022, they were awarded “Best New Band”
from the Washington Blues Society.
Their new EP release In the Valley of the Blues is jam-packed
with five solid original blues tracks topped with stellar vocals, and excellent
musicianship. With both Kim and Brian
taking on vocals, Kim performs on acoustic guitar, and Brian on lead
guitar. The two are joined by Andrew
Cloutier on drums, and Jerome Gates on bass.
The driving rhythm on “Lewis County Jail” lays the tracks for Kim’s commanding vocals and Brian’s smokin’ guitar to transport a hefty load of blues from the git-go. Taking the lead on “Valley of the Blues”, Brian’s soulful voice sounds great as each note from his guitar projects pure emotion. “Dark Light” is a simply amazing track. The spotlight shines brightly on Kim’s vocal artistry. Her voice on this song reminds me a lot of Jeni Grouws’ from The Avey Grouws Band. In the Valley of the Blues concludes with a sultry bid of adieu called “Worlds Apart”. Kim’s vocals are amazingly smooth.
It’s very exciting to hear new music of this caliber. Kim & Brian sound terrific together, and their songs are downright splendid. I’m looking forward to hearing more from them.
