CHRIS WATSON BAND

Pleasure and Pain

2012-06-15

The second release from Chris Watson, Pleasure and Pain mixes both originals and covers by Sean Costello and Bobby Womack. Watson honed his skills while growing up in Texas, playing lead guitar in his dad’s UpAllNight Band. Although Watson’s skill as a blues rock guitarist is unmistakable, one shouldn’t underestimate the craft of songwriting which is painfully evident on the title track (many clichés are woven into the lyrics). The track “Mama Told Me” cooks; it is reminiscent of Stevie Ray Vaughn’s fretwork. “Going Home” is a traditional gospel song which showcases Chris’ vocal ease but his guitar outshines. On “Hard Luck Woman” the guitar licks are brighter and the bass more purposeful on this late Sean Costello tune. “Wanted Man” powers through with its authentic blues sound---it’s the best tune on the album. Yeah, this album’s aptly named. Recommended tracks: 11, 8, 5, 6. – Pam VandeKerkhoff

Quick Links:

More reviews tagged #Blues

  • reviewed 12/2010

    GRACE ASKEW
    Until They Lay Me Down to Rest

  • reviewed 01/2015

    THE KNICKERBOCKER ALL-STARS
    OPEN MIC AT THE KNICK

  • reviewed 11/2018

    KENNY "BLUES BOSS" WAYNE
    INSPIRED BY THE BLUES

  • reviewed 05/2015

    Rob Paparozzi And The Ed Palermo Big Band
    Electric Butter

  • reviewed 03/2007

    Daniel August
    Swallowed A Star

  • reviewed 09/2017

    Dudley Taft
    Summer Rain

Compiled by the WYCE Journalism Club

The opinions expressed in these reviews are those of the individual volunteers that submitted the article and do not necessarily reflect the views of WYCE or GRCMC; nor its staff, donors, or affiliates.