November 4, 2005

BLUES REISSUES/DVDs:

Tommy Castro has moved away from relying primarily on guitar artistry and now puts the focus mainly on songwriting and development. That’s reflected in the narrative scope and overall caliber of the compositions on his current release Soul Shaker, and is reaffirmed on the DVD Whole Lotta’ Soul (Blind Pig). Besides having extensive interviews with Castro and various band members, the 87-minute package also repeatedly presents Castro’s strengths as a singer. On such songs as “You Only Go Around Once,” “The Next Right Thing,” “Texas Flower,” and “Anytime Soon” he is soulful and exciting whether doing the leads or fortifying the choruses. The live recording also fully communicates the band’s high-voltage stage show.

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