Tim Woods – For You
Independent, 2023
Ten Tracks, 40 minutes
Originally from Western Pennsylvania, but transplanted to Macon, Georgia, guitarist singer-songwriter Tim Woods has released his fourth solo album, For You. Joining him on this album is Bobby Lee Rodgers, who plays guitar, bass, and keyboards. There are also guest appearances by Paul Hornsby playing the Hammond B-3 on one track, and Erik Lawrence offering saxophone for an additional track.
The ten original songs on this album display a wide variety of influences, beginning with a clearly rock number, aptly titled “Can’t Stop Rockin’.” “Are You Kind” shows evidence of being influenced by 70’s rock, and “Mimic” is a funky instrumental number. Even the track entitled “Low Down Blues” is not clearly blues, as it shows traces of the influence of both the late ‘60s Beatles’ and Steppenwolf’s music. In fact, psychedelic blues appears to be the strongest influence on this album, and is most clearly seen in “Low Down Blues,” “Believe,” and “The Story”.
Woods is a skilled songwriter, and his lyrics are frequently very inspirational, which is welcome during these trying times. “Low Down Blues” notes, “Looking for peace in this madness…I know there are better days ahead. Nothing will stand in our way. I know that sometimes you feel like crying, but our love is here to stay. Get rid of these low-down blues. Take away these low-down blues.”
Additionally, “Believe” encourages others to “believe in yourself. People have their moments. They hold their fists in rage. Me, I’m just sitting here, turning the next page. Believe in yourself, you can make it through.”
While blues purists may take issue with the distance this album strays from ‘old school’ blues, the talent of these musicians is undeniable. And those who enjoy the fusion of rock and psychedelic blues will easily see why this album is deserving of a place in your collection.