Here is how I started out my review of the previous Jim Allchin album, Overclocked:
“I remember the first time I heard Stevie Ray Vaughan. All I could think was, man, that’s some guitar! The first time I heard Jim Allchin, ditto. Maybe he isn’t Stevie Ray Vaughan, but he’s Jim Allchin all over the freakin’ place and I figure if you have a love for the rockin’ side of R&B and rock ‘n’ roll, you’ll feel the same. Allchin can play! I know you’ve heard it before, but he’s a step beyond. I swear. You love jammin’ guitar, you have got to hear this guy.”
Well, damned if Allchin isn’t back doing it again. More smokin’ guitar with sidesteps toward smooth jazz licks, more bar boogie and blues and, thank God, more New York Brass, which gives the music a bit of a kick on the more soulful numbers. When I was 20, I hated horns. What the hell was wrong with me? Well, I must be better now because this album is kicking my ass all over the place.
It helps when you start off with a smoker. “Stop and Go” is one of those boogie woogie numbers which gives Allchin all the room he needs to warm up the guitar and it warms up fast. Guitar rips in short bursts, which is the way it should be. Used when it is needed. Used as background when it is more of a band instrument. Allchin knows what he’s doing.
And I know what I’m hearing. Allchin’s Q.E.D. After that first album, I didn’t expect anything less. Thanks for meeting my expectations and more, Jim. Signed, your pal, Frank.
And you Brass people? Make Allchin take you on tour with him. If he resists, beat the crap out of him. Just don’t hurt the horns.
While this isn’t smokin’, it is on the album and shows you a different side. More of a beautiful, 3 A.M. side. I couldn’t resist.
