John Cee Stannard & Blues Horizon
Album: Stone Cold Sober
Label: Cast Iron
Tracks: 12
Website: http://www.johnceestannard.co.uk

You can't help smiling when listening to this new album from John Cee Stannard.

He says he wanted recreate the toe-tapping good-time feel he had on his previous album. Bus Depot Blues, and I am pretty sure he's achieved that and more.

The world of country blues is delivered with a swing and a swagger as John is joined by Mike Baker (guitar) and Howard Birchmore (harmonica) as well as host of guest musicians.

The opening track, the unequivocal Don't Want You No More, sets the tone for the majority of this album with its upbeat backing.

Most of the tracks follow a similar vein, and there's a sense that the guys had a great time recording this. The Story, not the most imaginative song title, tells the tale of someone down on their luck, with a neat twist.

All the songs are originals except for the cover of Blind Blake's lead Hearted Blues.

For the most part the playing is top notch, however I did feel that on some tracks - So Long, for example, there was too much instrumentation. Less is often more, I find.

It's quite a surprise when we get to Worse Off Than You, as it's a slower number. More so when it's followed by an even slower number the excellent Dream The Blues.

If you like your blues with a smile on its face, then this is for you.

John Knighton