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 02/2014

    ANNIKA CHAMBERS & THE HOUSTON ALL-STARS
    Making My Mark

  • reviewed 06/2011

    ROD PIAZZA AND THE ALL MIGHTY FLYERS
    ALMIGHTY DOLLAR

  • reviewed 07/2010

    THE DEREK TRUCKS BAND
    ROADSONGS

  • reviewed 03/2009

    THE BLIND BOYS OF ALABAMA
    LIVE IN NEW ORLEANS

  • reviewed 06/2009

    BJ ALLEN & BLUE VOODOO
    HEARTLESS

  • reviewed 12/2008

    JOE LOUIS WALKER
    WITNESS TO THE BLUES

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.