Reviewed by Lins Honeyman

This 2010 release from the bafflingly underrated British blues guitarist Larry Miller should be a joy for blues fans of all persuasions to behold. Stylistically but not exclusively reminiscent of the late great Gary Moore, Miller offers up an explosive powerhouse of an album that oozes soul, skill and a plethora of breathtaking guitar solos - not least in the wah wah-infested opener "Mad Dog" - whilst referring to his Christian faith with all the straight-talking realism you would expect when set to the backdrop of the blues. Despite the album's monochrome black and white cover, a great deal of colour is contained within its tracks with styles ranging from the west coast blues of "Mad Dog" to the slow burning "Cruel Old World" and some country blues leanings at the start of "As Blue As It Gets" - all of which prove that the blues is a multi-faceted genre. Elsewhere, Miller has a brief pit stop in harder rock territory with the title track and the delightfully Free-like "Still Ain't Done With The Blues" which arguably see Miller's gritty vocals in their natural light as well as showcasing the diversity of the man's work. Thematically and lyrically, there is an overarching feeling that there has been a hellhound on Miller's tail with tracks like "Gambler's Hill" and "Helter Skelter To Hell" both issuing stark warnings about choosing the wrong path whilst the acoustic ballad "Covering Me" sees Miller beautifully and poignantly pay tribute to his Saviour.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.