MUSIC FARMER 5 - Review by Adam Jones
From Pensacola to the Pantheon
In the world of modern rock, where the mundane often takes center stage, "Lawrence of Albuquerque" by THE BUDDY BLAKE BAND emerges as a unique & luminous beacon - a brilliant showcase of the richness of rock n roll's storied past with the freshness of contemporary soundscapes. From the sun-kissed shores of Pensacola, Florida, this album unfolds like a vivid dream, where every note and lyric paints a stroke of genius on the canvas of our imaginations.
The journey commences with "Universal Band," where an epic guitar riff takes flight, cutting through the silence with the precision and majesty of an eagle soaring over open waters. This is promptly met by a rhythm section that roars like thunder, setting the pace for vocals that ascend into the stratosphere, echoing the legendary prowess of icons like Van Halen and Led Zeppelin.
As "Lonely Now" takes the stage, it keeps the flame burning with its fiery alt-rock groove. Here, the harmonies conjure the spirit of The Beatles, enveloping the listener in a cocoon of sound, while the drums and bass engage in a dance of power and grace. The track is a celebration of sound, where every beat and melody sparks joy.
"What If I Told You" offers a gentle reprieve, a serene moment under the stars where the soft glow of Coldplay's introspection meets the charming quirk of Barenaked Ladies. It's a song that whispers secrets of the heart, wrapped in the warmth of a gentle embrace.
In "(This Is) The Way The World Ends," the album reaches a crescendo of raw, unbridled energy. It's a musical inferno where the fierce spirit of Jimi Hendrix and the intricate genius of Rush collide in a spectacle of sound that is uniquely THE BUDDY BLAKE BAND. This track doesn't just resonate; it reverberates through the core of your being, leaving an indelible mark.
"Always Good In My Heart" brings us to a place of tender romance, where the rhythm is a gentle caress and the organ's light touch is like the first light of dawn. The bass dances with elegance, crafting a melody that's both enchanting and heartfelt.
As the album progresses, tracks like "Hey Gurl" and "Wonder" add layers of depth and diversity. "Hey Gurl" commands attention with its infectious rhythm that compels the body to move, while "Wonder" blends the nostalgia of '90s grooves with the soulful essence of indie-country, creating a sound that's both familiar and thrillingly new.
The finale, "No More," is a grandiose farewell, a song that marries the bluesy grit of a guitar with the robust call of the bass. It evokes the legendary sound of Led Zeppelin and the raw emotion of John Lennon, culminating in a symphony of sound that's both elegant and electrifying.
In "(This Is) The Way The World Ends," the album reaches a crescendo of raw, unbridled energy. It's a musical inferno where the fierce spirit of Jimi Hendrix and the intricate genius of Rush collide in a spectacle of sound that is uniquely THE BUDDY BLAKE BAND.