Earl Slick Slick Trax
Metal Blade September 10 2002
By Russell Garwood
Earl Slicks primary role has been as a sideman/guitarist, and he has performed with the likes of David Bowie, John Lennon, Mick Jagger and Edgar Winter. Slick Trax is a compilation of re-mastered past works, released to coincide with the guitarists latest appearance on David Bowies new album and his tour with the glam legend. The name of the group is misleading as vocalist and second guitarist Jimmie Mack is actually responsible for writing all but four of the tracks. The other members of the band stand as Gene Leppik on bass and backing vocals, and drummer Bryan Madey.
The music is nothing new, being unoriginal but well-written classic bluesy rock. The vocals are often spoken and raw, with the distinctive rock sound, while the lightly distorted guitars are simplistic and sporadically catchy. The drums too are straightforward, and this is obviously singer/song-writer-orientated music, while the bass is strong and unembellished. Standouts have to be the jumpy P/J. Proby, Lady Luck with a laid back bluesy feel, and the slightly more complex The Way Down.
Slick Trax doesnt break any rules, and often feels like its trying to conform, but nevertheless it is undemanding and enjoyable music. While the songs can feel samey at times, there is some variation which helps alleviate monotony. This release should appeal to most fans of classic rock and guitar-based blues, and while not always very catchy is none-the-less good fun.
Metal Blade September 10 2002
By Russell Garwood
Earl Slicks primary role has been as a sideman/guitarist, and he has performed with the likes of David Bowie, John Lennon, Mick Jagger and Edgar Winter. Slick Trax is a compilation of re-mastered past works, released to coincide with the guitarists latest appearance on David Bowies new album and his tour with the glam legend. The name of the group is misleading as vocalist and second guitarist Jimmie Mack is actually responsible for writing all but four of the tracks. The other members of the band stand as Gene Leppik on bass and backing vocals, and drummer Bryan Madey.
The music is nothing new, being unoriginal but well-written classic bluesy rock. The vocals are often spoken and raw, with the distinctive rock sound, while the lightly distorted guitars are simplistic and sporadically catchy. The drums too are straightforward, and this is obviously singer/song-writer-orientated music, while the bass is strong and unembellished. Standouts have to be the jumpy P/J. Proby, Lady Luck with a laid back bluesy feel, and the slightly more complex The Way Down.
Slick Trax doesnt break any rules, and often feels like its trying to conform, but nevertheless it is undemanding and enjoyable music. While the songs can feel samey at times, there is some variation which helps alleviate monotony. This release should appeal to most fans of classic rock and guitar-based blues, and while not always very catchy is none-the-less good fun.
