It wouldn't be fair to categorize John Garr (http://www.johngarr.com) as just a blues artist. On the excellent "331," Garr goes beyond the call of duty, not only showcasing his mastery of the blues but producing a collection of memorable, wonderfully melodic songs that brush gently against the ears. Moreoever, while many blues records sing of the dark side of town, Garr keeps a lighthearted, life-affirming vibe that is absolutely infectious and uplifting.
All it took was one spin of "331" to have it stuck in my CD player for weeks; every day I reach out for it in a desperate need for a fix. The first three cuts establish Garr's skills as a bluesman. "Being alone is a God-given right," Garr sings on the witty "Leave Me Alone Blues," which could stand as a companion piece to George Thorogood's "I Drink Alone." The snap-tight drumming, vibrant keyboards, and hot sax suggest otherwise; Garr is asking to be by himself, but it sounds like he's having one hell of a party!
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"Failure to Communicate" is a throwback to the '50s, when blues was an integral part of rock and pop. "I Get It From You" stuns and mesmerizes with fiery, piercing blues riffs.
After those tunes have left us salivating for more, Garr dazzles us with his versatility. The beautiful "What About Love" flirts with smooth jazz, recalling Chris Rea at his best, while "I Love You Baby" has a surprising reggae backbeat. Wow. How many blues musicians are as eclectic as this?
But what has me raving about "331" the most is how good I feel whenever I listen to it. If you feel that rock has become too depressing the past decade or so, then you need to inhale the joyous spirit that Garr is brewing here.
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