Released by: Self Release
Release date: Out Now
Genre: Rock
Links: Facebook
Line-up:
Boo English
Track Listing:
01. Old Dog New Tricks
02. Austin
03. Back to Me
04. Love Crashing Down
05. How the Story Goes
06. Time
07.Help!
08. Our Hearts Can Be As One
09. Move Along
10. Strumming My Blues Away
11. Pick Up The Pieces
12. Get Your Groove On
I listen to a wide array of music. Most of it tends to be one degree or another of heavy, often dark, and even if it is somewhat upbeat it still tends to have a bit of an edge to it. As far as genuinely happy music (you know- upbeat tempo, positive lyrics,) I usually avoid that like the plaque. Not that I’m not interested in feeling or being happy, it’s just not my normal way of being. When I received a copy of Boo English’s solo album Old Dog New Tricks, I knew I was going to hear some amazing music, I just wasn’t expecting it to be so positive. And on top of that finding myself loving it as much as I did.
Boo is the lead guitarist for Charlotte NC’s The Michael Tracy Band, plus owner of Knothole Recording Studio, so it stands to reason as a seasoned veteran and mega talented guitarist with access to a nice studio he’d be able create a pretty strong release, but I had no idea this album would be as fantastic as it turned out to be. He played all of the instruments except drums on one song supplied by former Michael Tracy alum Loren Bates, and some sax on another track from current member Jeremy Adams. Not only is English a brilliant guitarist, but apparently an accomplished drummer and has a remarkable voice too. With tracks like “Back To Me,” “Time,” “Get Your Groove On,” and “Old Dog New Tricks” Boo has created some bluesy, poppy, old school vibe, almost early Beatles meets Beach Boys sound only much more current; just that sort of vibe. Speaking of The Beatles he does a really nice cover of “Help” as well as the Average White Band song “Pick Up the Pieces.” Sure, some of the lyrics are kind of sweet and cliché, but he manages to make them work to his advantage.
This is the perfect summer album- windows down, not too hot, driving down the road without a care in the world album. The happy vibe from Old Dog New Trick is very contagious. I couldn’t help but feel better after each spin. It’s not for everyone, but if you like good, old school feel good rock with a dash of blues then give this one a shot. Boo is also one of the nicest, most humble folks you’d ever want to meet, and his music is just as down to Earth as he is. This isn’t my typical stlye I listen to, but it’s a perfect album for the genre. While listening to some of my usualy fare I found myself wanting to listen to Boo English’s record some more, and that is what any good album should do.
Written by: Chris Martin
Ratings: Chris 9/10
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