Reviewed by Peter Timmis

After releasing four well received albums of self composed material, Minnesota-based Tom and his band The Get-Rites have cut an album - complete with a marvellously lengthy title - that gives their own interpretation of some of the more spiritual material recorded by blues greats such as Fred McDowell, Lightnin' Hopkins and Charley Patton. Fans of Tom's will already be familiar with his deft guitar work and on 'Tribute', playing his trusty National Reso-Phonic, he once again demonstrates impressive dexterity. Feldmann's bottleneck skills are especially effective on the grooving opening track "Live So God Can Use You" where he injects fresh energy into the old Muddy Waters song. Just as enjoyable are a tender rendition of Washington Phillips' "Leave It There" and a biting version of "It's Nobody's Fault But Mine" originally recorded by Blind Willie Johnson. While Tom's voice may not carry the same level of character as the bluesmen who first recorded these songs, it is maturing nicely and carries just enough grit to pull it off. The album closes with an all too brief version of Sunday school favourite "This Little Light Of Mine", here credited to Son House and performed brilliantly by Tom alone with his guitar. 'Tribute' is an album well worth checking out if you like your blues infused with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

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.