Daddy Longlegs

The seduction of blues can drive even the most timid to deviation. With that in mind, picture a dimly-lit blues lounge brimming with patrons straining to see through a blanket of smoke as the band hammers on long into the night. This is the kind of imagery that comes to mind when listening to Daddy Long Legs’ second release. The production is a result of two nights of live recording in a Waterloo, Ontario bar. It took nearly thirteen hours to achieve the end result, but with no overdubs or effects, this off-the-floor record stays true to its roots. With a predilection for vintage threads, the band’s fiery guitar and harmonica follow the traditional style, powered by a driving rhythm section. Reminiscent of swing blues from the ’50s, the title track’s up-tempo jive is offset by the gritty vocals of Mike Elliott. "Mel’s Blues” is an ode to local legend Mel Brown and the thriving blues in the band’s hometown, Kitchener. But the album’s best moment may be "Read Between the Lines,” an achy 12-bar blues held steady with a bass and drum backbone while a harmonica coos over your shoulder and the guitar works the floor.