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 05/2008

    ALBERT COLLINS
    LIVE IN MONTREUX, 1992

  • reviewed 04/2007

    Watermelon Slim & The Workers
    The Wheel Man

  • reviewed 08/2009

    FIONA BOYES
    BLUES WOMAN

  • reviewed 03/2015

    Thirsty Perch Blues Band
    Live for Today

  • reviewed 10/2013

    BRYAN LEE
    PLAY ONE FOR ME

  • reviewed 05/2007

    Rick "LA" Holmstrom
    Late in the Night

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.