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 06/2016

    Mel Brown
    Under Yonder: Mel Brown Live At Pop The Gator 1991

  • reviewed 10/2013

    PETE ANDERSON
    BIRDS ABOVE GUITARLAND

  • reviewed 10/2009

    BRYAN LEE
    SIX STRING THERAPY

  • reviewed 12/1969

    The Billy Gibson Band
    Live at Rum Boogie Cafe

  • reviewed 07/2007

    Duke Robillard
    Duke Robillard's World Full of Blues

  • reviewed 11/2009

    Boo Boo Davis
    Ain't Gotta Dime

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.