I got rid of the rule of three for the title of the review, as it just felt right to break the rules, appropriate for an album that seeks to break a few rules of its own. This album has been out for a few days, since it came out on Friday the 13th. You can buy it on CD, vinyl, or as a digital download, depending on what you prefer. I’ve included a few links for your convenience
The album was produced, engineered, and mixed by Eddie Spear (Zach Bryan, Slash, Rival Sons) and recorded live in the studio at Blackbird Studios and Sienna Studios. It was recorded live in the studio at Blackbird Studios and Sienna Studios, capturing for the first time on tape the spirit of his electrifying live show. It is something of a wonder that we have this album at all. Nichols almost never played again after breaking his arm a few months before the recording sessions. This was a big turning point in his life. After surgery, which left him with a plate and 16 screws in his right arm, he pushed himself with diligence and determination to regain use of his arm and his storied guitar proficiency.
The album is an exciting mixture of rock and blues (with a nod toward the grunge movement now and then) with strong guitar and a groove to die for.
It opens with “My Delusion,” a song that is in the mould of Queen’s “Modern Times Rock n’ Roll” or a Black Sabbath number.
The pace continues with “Easy Come, Easy Go,” a track that slides into a guitar solo and some (almost) dance grooves. The chorus has a catchy radio appeal for this Nashville-based performer, and the energy is maintained.
“Down the Drain” has a slower and heavier beat, with the chorus vocals spat out. The blues influenced riffs hark back to the Hendrix era, and the grunge influence is also felt on this track.
“Hard Wired” is up next, introduced with some guitar work reminiscent of Ace Frehley and a drum sound that suddenly demands attention. This one was released in the Spring of 2022. Born from a jam session with Tyler Bryant and Graham Whitford, the single bulldozed a path for Jared James Nichols with no shortage of raw and raucous six-string bravado.
“Bad Roots” is one of my favourites from the album, full of strutting confidence, it has a strong drum sound to support the flashy guitar riffs and solos.
“I made a record to serve as the menu for the live show,” Nichols shares. “There’s an element of excitement and danger. It’s my version of rock ‘n’ roll with a little more humanity. The album is a day in the life with the ups and downs, but musically, it rings true to who I am as an artist. I’m not trying to be anybody but myself or play the music I love today. I’m bringing you loud as hell guitars and no fucks given rock ‘n’ roll, and I’m loving it.”
Both “Skin n’Bone” and “Long Way Home” certainly show this, loud and dangerous blues edged rock.
“Shadow Dancer” takes things slower, and shows a depth to the album and a musical development. The third album from this album is a real step forward artistically from his earlier two albums, it is a musical statement that flexes its muscles.
On the subject of flexing muscles (and standing at 6ft 5,” I’m guessing he has plenty to flex”), this is really seen on “Hallelujah” a guitar driven stomper.
“Saint or Fool” is a dark blues number, heavy bass and a bit of Southern rock gusto.
The 12th and last track is the appropriately named “Out of Time.” It is an interesting track, it shows some strong lyrics, and Jared’s vocals are especially powerful on this closer.
And there we are, a really pleasing album that should delight current fans and attract plenty of new ones. There is also a tour that is upon us in the coming weeks, including a few European dates that have Bad Luck Friday in support for London (who I reviewed in this magazine a few months ago).
Jared James Nichols Track Listing
1. My Delusion
2. Easy Come, Easy Go
3. Down The Drain
4. Hard Wired
5. Bad Roots
6. Skin ‘n Bone
7. Long Way to Go
8. Shadow Dancer
9. Good Time Girl
10. Hallelujah
11. Saint or Fool
12. Out Of Time
JARED JAMES NICHOLS TOUR DATES
U.S. Dates
Tuesday, January 17 – Nashville, TN @ The Basement East
Thursday, January 19 – Los Angeles, CA @ The Peppermint Club
Sunday, January 22 – Fresno, CA @ Strummer’s
Thursday, January 26 – Chicago, IL @ Beat Kitchen
Saturday, January 28 – Milwaukee, WI @ The Miramar Theatre
European Dates
Get tickets for all dates at: http://bit.ly/3IFcMB9
Feb 9- Rotterdam, NL- Annabel w/ DeWolff
Feb 11- Utrech,NL- TivoliVredenburg w/ DeWolff
Feb 12- Savigny Le-Temple, FR- L’Empreinte
Feb 15- Barcelona, SP – Sala WOLF w/ Montana Stomp
Feb 16- Madrid, SP – Salanazca Madrid w/ Montana Stomp
Feb 22- London,UK – The Black Heart w/ Bad Luck Friday
By Stevie Ritson.
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