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 03/2019

    PETER ROGAN
    STILL TRYIN' TO BELIEVE

  • reviewed 04/2010

    GUITAR SHORTY
    BARE KNUCKLES

  • reviewed 06/2014

    The City Boy Allstars
    Blinded By The Night

  • reviewed 10/2014

    Laura Rain & The Ceasers
    Closer

  • reviewed 11/2016

    RONNIE EARL AND THE BROADCASTERS
    MAXWELL STREET

  • reviewed 10/2008

    JACKIE PAYNE/STEVE EDMONSON BAND
    OVERNIGHT SENSATION

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.