CD Review – Pat Robert & the Heymakers “Lonesome and blue”
Cécile Hortensia
Posted On November 29, 2011
Do you like Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, Roy Orbison, Hanks Williams or Faron Young ?
Well, these are Pat Roberts’ heroes. We can definitely hear it his album “Lonesome and blue” just released last Fall with his band the Heymakers and his label Electric Lotus Label.
Living in Arizona just like him, I had the chance to meet Pat Roberts recently. Talking about his early life, his passion for early country and rockabilly, and all these years touring, I felt I was facing an authentic music lover and musician.
Authenticity than glows from his record.
After years being on the road, Pat Roberts’ signature voice is known to be an Arizona staple. His echo- drenched twangy guitar playing, mixed with his impeccable rhythm section is tailored to swoon the most recalcitrant audience. This new album of true-and-tested numbers represents the band under its best of light.
The result is faithful to its influences. Pat Roberts has an encyclopedic knowledge of classic country and rock and roll. It reflects in his interesting choices of covers (Uptown, Train of love…). And his versions can easily bear the comparison with the originals. Because Pat Roberts’ vocals are warm and passionate, in up-tempo songs as well as in ballads. So is his guitar.
Still, the album bears its own compass. It features creative textures and original songs crafted for an elegant and authentic roots music album. « Mighty big love » invites you to caress the dance floor. « How does it feel » is a beautiful traditional ballad, featuring Amanda Lee’s vocals. My favorite may be « Ma chère petite » with its French title, its drum roll rythm and honky tonk piano!
It is easy to love « Lonesome and blue ». The album is definitely a collector, a « must have » to anyone who appreciates elegant and authentic music.
