It's not new, it's not radical, but if you're into Blues Rock, it's certainly going to tick some boxes.
A three-piece based in Northern Pennsylvania, the Charlie Wheeler Trio comprise of Wheeler on guitar and vocals, Rad Akers on drums and bassist Dave Fink. They play a brand of heavy Blues Rock which is raw, energetic and authentic.
'Rewind' is their third album, and is packed with powerful tracks such as the bass-led 'Love Letter' and the entertaining Blues of 'Semi Good Lookin''. 'Big City Blues' shows Wheeler's muscular voice and tasteful playing off well, while the title track is a slow burner which grows on you with every listen.
'Back To 'Frisco Bay' sees the band start to boogie and is guaranteed to get you moving. The more Funky Blues feel on 'River's Gonna Rise' make it a killer track featuring some marvellous rhythm work from Akers and Fink, while the grinding 'Love Comes Tumblin' Down' is another highpoint. 'The Ghost Of Who You Were' has a strong riff and features one of Wheeler's more powerful vocals.
The band aren't breaking any new ground here, but nor are they trying to. This three-piece prides itself on delivering bona fide, old-school Blues Rock, without layers of instruments and polish. 'Rewind' is almost like a live album in its approach – it's like having a bar band play some raucous Blues in your front room.
It's not new, it's not radical, but if you're into Blues Rock, it's certainly going to tick some boxes.
James Gaden
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