Big Shanty

Southern blues rockers Big Shanty is something of a cult hero on the alternative blues scene. Five independent albums have reportedly generated a million downloads, and look for his profile to get a boost with this damn fine double CD, 19-song set of his best material. This is dirty, gritty, fiery stuff that some have called "death metal blues" or "heavy metal funk." It's about as subtle as a demolition derby, but Shanty's gruff vocals and raunchy slide guitar deliver the goods consistently. Alternating lead guitarists Dave Hanbury, Chris Blackwell, Liz Melendez, Spencer Kirkpatrick (Hydra) and Eddie Jett all fuel the fire, while cameos are taken by Southern rock heroes Jack Hall (Wet Willie) and Col. Bruce Hampton. Along with classic motor biking tunes like "Whisky Woman" and "Ride Like the Wind," there's a refreshingly subversive tone to the lyrics of "Uncle Sam Go to Rehab" and "Killing Fields," which adds to the appeal. Female backing vocals from Melendez boost the funk on "Kiss the Eight Ball" and "Love Train," and even usually annoying synth horns are used effectively. This goes well with moonshine and ribs at your next BBQ. Crank up high and ignore the neighbours.