Castro Feelin’ It With ‘Painkiller’

We’re more than a little jealous of Németh’s label mate, guitarist Tommy Castro. He tours constantly, always delivering great shows. He’s a prolific as any blues artist in the world, releasing at least one new album every year. So how come Castro still sounds energetic – and never repeats himself?

Part of the reason is that Castro, a very good guitarist, never fell into the 1,000 notes per bar trap that so many blues artists seem to feel is necessary. In fact, Castro’s becoming an soulful songwriter and vocalist, and it’s those two factors that make his new release, Painkiller, one of his best to date.

Highlights include the duet “A Good Fool Is Hard To Find” by Albert Collins, featuring excellent guitar work by both Castro and guest Coco Montoya; the clever “Big Sister’s Radio”; and the somber “It Ain’t Easy Bein’ Me,” which virtually any traveling blues musician will grasp as a real slice of life. Everyone else will simply be entertained by a seasoned pro named Tommy Castro.

Painkiller is available now wherever records are sold.
– Syl Nathan