Intriguing, is probably the best word to describe the effect that "TURNING THE WORM" had on me.  Generally, non traditional styles of blues such as this simply don't excite me. Yet, something about this disc has me uncharacteristically impressed.  

 

    "TURNING THE WORM" consists of nine CARL SLACK originals that combine a perfect blend of folk, country, southern rock and blues.  Mastering those styles not only shows a musicians versatility, but it opens up a lot of doors - possibly providing a bit of job security as well.  Be it a 'Coffee House', a 'Juke Joint' or a 'Honky Tonk' - put CARL SLACK on the stage and a good time will be had by all.  None were given, but if I had to guess as to who some of CARL'S inspirations were, Bob Dylan, Tom Waits, Jimmy Buffet and Delbert McClinton are just a few of the names that would come to my mind.    

 

    Joining CARL SLACK on vocals, acoustic, electric and slide guitars, harmonica and percussion are: MIKE LOVELADY on drums; DAVE ROMERO on bass and background vocals; CHAD LITTLE on guitar and background vocals; JARVIS HOLLOWAY on fiddle.

 

    On "PONYBOY", the opening track, it took me hearing him sing all of the first sentence to fall in love with this young man's voice.  Then I heard his harp playing and immediately knew the rest of this disc was going to be an absolute treat.  And indeed it was.

 

    "ANOTHER HOMESICK TUNE" features great fiddlin' by Jarvis.  This southern rock blues track would feel right at home on just about any Allman Brothers disc. 

 

    "STONE'S THROW FROM MEXICO" features some of the best rhythm the disc has to offer.

 

    "DANCE ACROSS TEXAS" is top notch country blues.  As with all of CARL'S songs, it tells a true and interesting story.  Once again, JARVIS'S fiddle along with CARL'S singing highlight this one. 

 

    On "TURNING THE WORM", I found it a bit difficult to get into too much detail about any one particular song and believe it or not, I mean that from a positive point of view.  Reason being is that if you're looking for three minute harp solos, songs that are full of blazing guitar licks and drummers beating their brains out, you just won't find it here.  What you will find on this disc, is five very talented musicians, working as one, to sound as good as they possibly can - and easily achieving that goal. 

 

    My gut feeling tells me that on this project, CARL SLACK may have actually gone through a bit of a learning experience.  What I mean by that is, as good as "TURNING THE WORM" is, I'm thinking we've got a lot more yet to hear from him.

 

    Check CARL out at www.carlslack.com and - you know the drill, tell him the Blewzzman sent ya.