Blues rock tends to favor musicianship first and foremost, but occasionally you'll find a band that is also willing to push the field in new directions and to a whole new level. The Canadian based rock band, DR. RAGE & THE UPPERCUTS is surely concerned about moving blues rock into the future, with outstanding songwriting and the awe-inspiring guitar work of Dr. Rage (whose vocals are just as powerful), which manages to sound both high-flying and respectably restrained at the same time. 'Hittin' Wood and Diamond Hard' is very POWERFUL. DR. RAGE & THE UPPERCUTS is composed of three veterans of the Canadian music scene and a young rhythm guitar player whom they've been grooming for the stage. The band was formed after an impromptu studio jam that was just simply mind-blowing! Is it groove based rock? Yes, it is, and that's because it is plumbing the depths of life, which includes pain. DR. RAGE & THE UPPERCUTS is the real deal. Their music beats you over the head from the start and does not let up. Featuring smoldering tracks like, "Backbiters and Syndicators," "Hey Lil' Sister" and a smokin' rendition of Willie Dixon's, "I Just Wanna Make Love To You". There is no doubt in my mind that this music will move you in a way unimaginable. DR. RAGE & THE UPPERCUTS will remind music fans of bands like, Gov't Mule and Allman Bros.
The whole album rocks! Other standouts include "Higher", Good Mornin' Lil' Schoolgirl" and "The Burden". The songwriting is top shelf and the band is tight. 'Hittin' Wood and Diamond Hard' is best listened to when alone, either in the car with volume set at 10, or at home with the headphones on and the volume set at 10!
