Micke Bjorklof & Blue Strip
Album: Ain't Bad Yet
Label: HokaHey
Tracks: 11
Website: http://www.mickebjorklof.com

Take five guys from Finland and stick them in a famous studio in Wales and this is the result.

A classy album of hi-octane rock blues that simply sizzles. These boys know how make a great noise.

From the precise drumming high in the mix, to the sumptuous slide guitar, and the attention paid to the vocals, this is an intoxicating mix.

The opener, Last Train to Memphis, sets the tone perfectly. Up tempo with great drumming and a call and response structure, the slide guitar is sublime. A stunning train song.

From then on it's great track after great track. Troublemaker is a simple song that is lifted by excellent production - the drums really stand out. Rain in Jerusalem gets across its political message with a dirtier, grungy sound.

The title track is a bit of departure, acoustic slide guitar this time, a slower ballad that builds nicely.

Throughout the production is spot on, great playing and singing, with lots of variety. The love of the blues shines through. The album was produced by John Porter, and recorded at Rockport Studios, and they have done a superb job.

Blame It On The Bright Lights just shimmers with sultry guitar and great vocals. The final track, In Chains, is a great ensemble piece, with a slower groove.

On this evidence the blues are alive and kicking in Finland. One of the finest blues albums this year. Highly recommended.

John Knighton