DESCRIPTION:
5 Stars out of 5 = Masterpiece

Craig Erickson's debut, "Roadhouse Stomp," is most likely the best heavy blues/rock album released in 1992, or at the least, the best heavy blues/rock album released in 1992, that most people never heard of. Hailing from Cedar Rapids, IA, Craig is an all commanding guitar players guitarist. He is remarkably accomplished in rock, blues, funk, & jazz. His father, being a well known jazz guitarist in the 50's on the East Coast, has been a big influence in his life, along with the likes of Jimi Hendrix, Tommy Bolin, Jeff Beck, Robin Trower, & Eric Johnson.

When I wrote earlier, that this is "the best heavy blues/rock album released in 1992," that is a little misleading, for this album is a kaleidoscope of genres, blending their exotic colors into an awe inspiring show of brilliant light, that one can not only hear, but see through their ears! You have on this album, the SRV Texas roadhouse blues of "Heartbreak Train" & "Catch That Plane." "Midnight Highway," which would of fit perfectly on ZZ Top's, "Tres Hombres" or "Fandango" albums. The butt shaking funk/rock of "Overtime." The heavy, yet wonderfully melodic, "The Storm," "River Song," "Starry Sea," & "Tell Me The Truth." The magnificent full throttle guitar speed of "Tearin' It Up," kind of like Van Halen if they went a more bluesy route with accomplished knowledge of jazz licks. The profoundly elegant, "The Loneliest Hour," & last but not least, the catchy riffing of "Blues Avenue." Through all these songs, Erickson's remarkable muscular, yet at a flick of a pick, subtle & soulful soloing, is so tasteful, that one could grow fat on his sweet tone, momentous sustain, & delicious phrasing! His voice, deeply emotive, is a perfect match for these songs. Yes, this is a most remarkable debut!

Do your self a favor, if you even have a small interest in what I just wrote, & pick up this wonderful treasure box of sonic bliss as soon as you can. For now it is a rare & collectable album, of a sadly overlooked genius, that will become even more elusively collectable over time!