Reviewed by Lins Honeyman

Veteran Nashville-based guitar man Pachelli is probably best known in Christian circles for his collaborations with singer/songwriter Phil Keaggy but his 16th album sees the experienced session man/live performer/former TV show host take the limelight on a collection of blues-based songs that showcases the man's innate talent as a fluid and emotive lead guitarist. Pachelli offers up a competent vocal performance but it's really his guitar playing that steals the show with the man pulling off solo after solo that make the hairs on the back your neck stand up and see him certainly in the same league as the likes of Clapton, Bonamassa and our very own Larry Miller in terms of technique and feel. Add to the mix Kevin McKendree's equally thrilling Hammond work and you have an album bursting with musical high points which include the clever slow blues of "That Thing They Call The Blues" and the infectiously upbeat "You Make Livin' Fun". Elsewhere, Pachelli takes a very simple lyric and melody in "I Need My Baby By My Side" and juxtaposes them with an intricate musical backdrop to showcase his skill as a songwriter and arranger whilst "Let's Cut A Rug" is just pure fun. Pachelli dips his toe into carnal blues waters in "You Got Me Where You Want Me" and the Allman Brothers-like "Mediocre Lovin'" and, whilst there are no direct references to the Christian faith, the thought-provoking "What'll I Tell My Son" and the funky "Steppin' Stone" - featuring a cameo from Regina McCrary - offer up a more considered side to proceedings on this hugely entertaining release.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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