Disappointment is the word when referring to the first live release by Detroit blues rockers the Soledad Brothers. Not to say "Live" is a horrible album, but, like most live albums, it fails to fairly represent what it's like to be at one of their shows.
Often overlooked by media and garage rock fans, the trio is arguably one of the best on the Detroit garage scene these days.
The band features one of the best Detroit drummers in Ben Smith (aka Ben Swank) and one of the best harp players in frontman, blues-wailer Johnny Wirick (aka Johnny Walker). While The White Stripes cover blues masterpieces, Walker has written some of his own.
Ironically, the trio's talent is why this record comes up a bit short. First, it's only seven songs, coming in at a mere 32 minutes and some change, so that's a bit of a letdown. Second, it was recorded in the since-closed Gold Dollar in Detroit back in 2000. This in itself creates two other gripes: 1) Anyone who went to the Dollar knows it was not exactly the best place to see a show, and 2) The band's sound has vastly matured over the last two and a half years.
On the positive side, the record does feature some previously unreleased material. Most welcome is the track "Goin' Back to Memphis," a song frequently covered by the White Stripes and originally recorded by Swank and Walker's former project, Henry and June. Before this release, fans had to rely on a scarce 7 inch or bootlegs to hear its infectious blues-laden riffs.
"Johnny's Death Letter," a long-standing standard in the band's set lists, also finally sees the light of day and is a definite highlight.
However, the rest of the album is just so-so, and better audience-sourced bootlegs, recorded by fans, have surfaced. The version of "Teenage Heart Attack," released under the name "Prodical Stones Blues" on the band's sophomore release, is far from spectacular. It is a great song, often highlighting a Soledad show, but this version, like several other songs on this album, is simply flat and unimpressive.
If you liked this, you'll also like: The White Stripes, The Gories, The Von Bondies.
Suggested listening: While drinking amidst friends or driving down the open road.
Where to find: Available at most independent record stores nationwide
Price: $9.99-$10.99
Previous albums: "Soledad Brothers," "Steal Your Soul and Dare Your Spirit to Move" (both on Estrus)
Overall: ***
Flow: ***
Lyrics: ****
Music: ****
Replay value: ***
