If ever we needed a solution to the self-consciously stylized over-hyped "art-pop-rock" being peddled in the so-called mainstream music industry, rockers and rollers, I give you Blackwater James. Christopher James (vox and guitars), Deanna Passarella (guitars/backing vocals), Josh Burns (bass/backing vocasl), and Todd Schlosser (drums/backing vocals) are four rockers hailing from Nashville, TN. who more than likely grew up listening to their parents' record collection. The result, an exuberant dose of rock music played with guts, power and shedloads of skill that captures perfectly the excitement and joy of the shared experience which is great Rock `n Roll. Yes, they may remind some of bands like Blackstone Cherry or Buckcherry with a dash of Black Label Society thrown in, but make no mistake Blackwater James have a sound that is all their own. This band is young, fresh, and has more energy and attitude than a junkyard dog. Opening track "All Fired Up" makes a defining statement for the rest of the album. Christopher James proves that when it comes to belting out rock songs, he has voice that is built for speed. While Deanna Passarella exhibits a wonderfully expressive approach to blues rock soloing, one thing certain this girl can play a mean six string. One listen through the whole album, and you get it all: explosive drumming, crunching riffs, rolling bass, fluid, resonant playing and hooks that are solid gold. "Midnight Train" has a nasty swagger that will send a chill up your spine, "Roses and Rain" has that 70's flamboyant stadium rock vibe to it. The melodic number "8 Letters Gone" closes out the album in solid fashion. Every once and a while a band comes along that just seems to have everything. Blackwater James is one of those bands. Overall, if you enjoy southern rock, hard rock, served up with tons of energy and attitude, then you'll definitely be impressed with Blackwater James's self-titled debut which is guaranteed to satisfy rockers of all ages! Definitely one of the better rock bands to come on to the music scene. I for one can't wait to hear what they come up with next!
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
