Clifford and Michaels, Standing Tall with the Blues, CD Review

Blues music has been around since the early 1900’s, and putting new breath into such an old art form may seem difficult. It wasn’t difficult for Clifford and Michaels. Their CD, Standing Tall With The Blues, is a refreshing collection of very unique blues and rock delivered with limitless emotion, crafty riffs, stellar instrumentalism, and all of the soul needed to pull off a great modern album.

I was immediately captured by the opening title track. Laced with brilliant piano and complex chord changes, this smoky, sultry tune is one of my favorites. The band is tight, the vocals are perfect, and the emotion is undeniable.

Quickly kicking things into a higher gear is the enjoyable, wah-wah laden blues-rock jam, “Don’t Go Away Mad… (Just Go Away).” What are the Odds,” is also a great tune and is definitely one of the more stand out tracks. I don’t know if I would categorize it as a blues song, but it is a truly a well-done number and varies the sound of the album nicely.

The grooviest track on this disc is undoubtedly, “Hard Luck Woman.” Some songs are meant to be hits. This is one of those songs. Highlighted by some breathtaking saxophone playing, “Hard Luck Woman,” is among many on this CD I would love to hear these guys perform live with their band. You can’t listen to this music and sit still.

Another notably upbeat cut is, “One Eyed Woody.” With a swinging southern guitar-rock feel, strong harmonies, and a piano that’s on fire, it’s sure to be a crowd favorite. 

Rick Clifford and Joe Michaels are both respected songwriters in their own right. Together, with the help of their highly talented band, they have formed a musical powerhouse worthy of any refined ear. Their skilled songwriting and diverse approach to production on Standing Tall With The Blues separates this blues CD from all the rest. It is entertaining and exciting to listen to from its smoky bar start to its concert hall finish.

Artist Website: www.myspace.com/cliffordandmichaels

Review By: ListenersGeneration.com