Brad “Guitar” Wilson – Buckle Up
Self Released
14 tracks/55 minutes
Brad Wilson is a big rocker who has a blazing guitar and covers a lot of ground in his album. Fourteen tracks of big blues and rock tunes here, similar to his last album that I reviewed last year. He lays out a lot of big licks and rocks out as he delivers hi energy performances. This west coast guy gives us his seventh effort in this album
The band backline is provided by Adam Gust and Johna van den Berg on drums and Hal Cragin, Brian Beal and Deb Jacobson bass. On keys are Chris Rhyne and Frankie V Bluesorgan. Francis Buckley in on percussion. Backing vocalists are Deb Jacobs, Su Isaac and Galen Keith.
Wilson stomps, romps, rocks and rolls through cover after cover and cuts guilt on the foundation of the greats with controlled reckless abandon. Fiery guitar, nice piano and key board support and backing vocals help make the songs fun. He throws in some interesting originals like “Hound Dog” and the title cut showcase his songwriting skills. “Step By Step” features some uncredited killer harp.
There is a mix of blues, rock, funk, and R&B offered up in a variety tempos and feels. Lots of good production here to build up a tight sound. The music here is something listeners and audiences can get into, giving them lots to dance and groove to, some tunes they know well that they will sing along with, and just provide them something to sit down to listen and enjoy.
