Blues Control, a band known for their live performances filled with distorted blues and reverb-drenched guitar work, presents their second full-length album, "Local Flavor." Released on July 14, 2009, under the label Siltbreeze, this album is a compact yet ambitious journey through the realms of space rock and krautrock, with hints of neo-psychedelia and drone.
"Local Flavor" is a concise collection of four tracks, each contributing to a cohesive half-hour experience. The album opens with "Good Morning" and closes with "On Through the Night," framing the journey with a sense of continuity. The other two tracks, "Rest on Water" and "Tangier," delve into murky textures and atmospheric soundscapes, showcasing the band's ability to create immersive sonic environments.
The album's brevity belies its depth, with each track offering a wealth of sonic detail to explore. Blues Control's signature style, characterized by smeared, elastic pentatonic runs and a bed of distorted blues, is evident throughout. The production is raw and unpolished, adding to the album's organic feel and allowing the band's live energy to shine through.
"Local Flavor" is a testament to Blues Control's ability to blend genres and create a unique sound that is both nostalgic and fresh. It's an album that rewards repeated listens, with each playthrough revealing new layers and nuances. Whether you're a fan of space rock, krautrock, or simply great guitar work, "Local Flavor" is an album that deserves a place in your collection.