Right now, people all over the country are screaming out the words "Give Me A Job"......even those who have yet to hear the CD - with that title - from the Burnsville Band.  Hopefully, after reading this review, a lot more people will be screaming out those same words.......but for a better reason.  

 

    The Burnsville Band is from the San Diego, CA area and consists of: Steve Burns on lead and slide guitars, Dobro, and vocals; Joe Bernal on lead vocals and rhythm guitar; Michael McGinty on keyboards; Dave Seely on bass and vocals; Joseph Hager on drums; and special guest Scottie "Mad Dog" Blinn on tremolo guitar. 

 

    "Give Me A Job" - a blend of smokin' rock, down home and Delta styles of blues - is the bands debut CD and consists of ten tracks, of which eight are excellent band originals.

 

    "Mississippi Mud" is progressive blues at it's best.  This rippin' instrumental took me right to the edge of my low "this is not blues, it's rock" threshold without going over the top.  The band's in fierce jam mode and everyone is full throttle.  Real good stuff right here. 

 

    When it comes to the blues, this type of stuff is my "Drivin' Wheel" - slow, down home blues.  The kind with the rhythm guys locked into a sweet groove and highlighted by profound guitar and keyboard leads along with gritty, soulful vocals.  This one fits the description.  Steve, Joe and Mike nail it here.

 

    On this track, The Burnsville Band - well at least the three rhythm cats anyway - get themselves "Locked Up" in a bit of a funky groove.  Then about two minute into the song the guitars take over and kick ass.   

 

    Once again, the guys cut loose with some smokin' blues on a track justifiably titled  "Cut You Loose".   With Michael's organ being the fuel, Dave and Joseph set the bass and drums on fire as the rhythm highlights this one.        

 

    In these tough times, many songs are being written, and sung, about the gloomy situations facing a lot of us.  However, it can't get too more topical than one titled "Give Me A Job".  With his intensity on the vocals, you'd actually think Joe's really asking for one, as he shouts the title words.  More great guitar and organ work additionally highlight this one.       

 

    When I saw this title - "Road Warrior Blues" - I was expecting to hear some serious, possibly over the top wailing.  However, being wrong did not upset me.  The track turned out to be a very well done acoustic performance both vocally, and on the Dobro.

 

    If you want to catch up with the band, they hang out a lot at a place called www.burnsvilleband.com.  While your hangin' with them tell them you want a copy of "Give Me A Job", because you heard the Blewzzman talking about how good it was.

 

Peter "Blewzzman" Lauro

Blues Editor @ www.Mary4Music.com