THE BLUESBONES
"Unchained" (Donor Productions; 2023)
Reviewed by R. Scott Bolton
They're definitely not heavy metal, and it would be a huge stretch to call them hard rock but The BluesBones and their recording "Unchained" are a musical feast to behold.
The BluesBones are a European blues band that originally formed in 2011. Their music has been described as "high-energy blues rock." I include that here because it's really the best description of the band's music. Solid guitars, a grooving rhythm section, killer keys, and a lead vocalist whose solid voice delivers a rainbow of emotion.
With songs ranging from the serious blues ("Chain Gang") to heartrending ballads ("I Cry") to Huey Lewis-like radio hits ("Movin' On"), "Unchained" holds your attention completely from beginning to end, and instantly earns replay demanding status.
My favorite tracks were the previously mentioned "Chain Gang," the driving "Changes" and the story-telling of "The Tale of Big Tim Brady," the longest track on the album (by a few seconds). But there isn't a bad track to be found here.
Again, not a hard rock or heavy metal recording but a engaging listen throughout, "Unchained" is recommended to anyone who likes even a little blues in their music.
For more information, check out https://www.thebluesbones.com/.
Rating Guide:
A classic. This record will kick your ass.
Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.
So-so. You've heard better.
Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.
Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.
Copyright © 2023 by R. Scott Bolton. All rights reserved.
