Dave Hole - Under the Spell (CD)

Australian guitarist Dave Hole is proof positive-if anyone still needed any-that one needn't be American to play the blues properly. On Under the Spell, he combines flash technique with a sensibility that prevents his guitar playing from overwhelming the songs. From the tasteful slide work on the opening "Short Memory" to the wailing solo on "Bird's Eye Blues" to the wistfulness of "Don't Say Goodbye," Hole's playing matches the mood of every song. Variety spices up this album with touches like the folky feel of "Lost at Sea," and both Hole and his band are tight and crisp throughout, making Under the Spell a genuine pleasure. -Genevieve Williams

Track List:

Disc: 1

1. Holding Pattern
2. Demolition Man
3. Run with Me
4. Cold Women with Warm Hearts
5. More Love, Less Attitude
6. Blues Is the Truth
7. Chicken Stuff
8. Don't Say Goodbye
9. Yes or No
10. I See My Baby
11. Short
12. Memory
13. Lost at Sea
14. Guitar Man
15. Bird's Eye Blues
16. Too Old to Rock'n'roll
17. I've Got to Go