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Are you N&W readers looking for a nice CD to put you in that real nice groove after a hard day’s work—or, better yet, after a tough week at work? Is it Friday, and you’re ready to chill out, and enjoy a cold brewskie? Then I’ve got the CD for you: The Don Ray Band’s latest release, Lonesome Rider.
This Nashville-based band has a nice mix of blues/jazz/southern rock on this CD. Their lineup is Don Ray with lead vocals, veteran Nashville producer/songwriter/guitarist Curt Ryle on lead guitar, Jonathan Armstrong on keyboards and vocals, Donnie Lee Clark on guitar and vocals, Mike Durham on rhythm guitar, Gary Smith on piano, Steve Bryant on bass, and Wayne Killius on drums. Durham steps out on solo guitar on a few tracks, and Kelly Bamberger sits in on drums on the song, “Poison,” and also contributes backup vocals. Ray wrote or co-wrote all of the songs on the CD.
The band released its first CD, On Top of the Heap, in 2009 to much critical acclaim, and Lonesome Rider, is a terrific follow-up. The production/sound mix is very clean and crisp, making it a totally pleasurable listening experience.
The opening track, “The Trigger,” gets you right into that nice groove that I mentioned above. Yes, sit back after getting that bottle cap off and enjoy a cold one. You’ll hear tasty playing, not over the top, that provides a nice feel with those guitar licks dancing in your head. I knew I was hooked after listening to the CD for a few days—and, while in bed last night, the song was still playing in my head.
The second track, “Monday Morning News,” paints the perfect picture of many of our feelings when it’s that time to start the work week.
The jazzy feel is present on the song, “Ball and Chain.” This song has that catchy hook that will penetrate your brain in no time. The song also has a haunting feel to it, like remembering ex-lovers. You recall the good times, but you still know that when it ended, it was for the best.
For you who like those up-tempo songs and jump sound, “The Ruckus Room” will have you up on your feet, bumping and shaking your booty, while the beer starts to flow. Overall, Lonesome Rider has a nice mix of blues and southern rock that will make listening to the entire CD a joy.
When I first listened to Lonesome Rider, it reminded me of a little Johnny Lang, some Robert Cray, and even some Skynyrd, especially on track 11, “Gone Nowhere.” Hard to pin down Don’s singing, as to who he reminds me of, but his voice comes through loud and clear; every word is easily picked up. Great job Don!
Check out the band at DonRayBand.com and have a listen. From watching their videos, I’d say that they sound as great live as on the CD, and I’m looking forward to seeing them when they make it to my neck of the woods.
