Description

Chris Kirby proves again why he is at the top of the rhythm and blues game in Newfoundland. “Wonderizer”, Kirby’s fourth release is a tasty offering of highly infectious, groove-laden soul music that is jammed with skillfully played electric piano, tasteful guitar, a rock solid rhythm section and blistering horn arrangements. Possessing a strong lyrical wit, Kirby splits the album in to two halves: Greasy and Honey. The Greasy side of the record deals with shadier aspects of a musician’s lifestyle. From back door drug pushers to slick, smooth talking posers. It is a dark and ultimately humorous look at the dichotomy of bar culture from the eyes of a seasoned musician. The honey side has a more positive slant and deals with love, the positive elements of relationships and the silver lining of the first half of the album. On “Wonderizer”, Chris is highlighting his chops as an electric piano player. He is fantastic and the piano is a sonic extension of his hands. He floats effortlessly up and down the keyboard with subtlety and nuance and at once smashes the keys in a fiery and raunchy flourish of Rhodes(y) goodness harkening glimpses of Dr. John. He is seriously soulful and this is accentuated by his tried and true rhythm section, Craig Follett on bass and Mark Marshall on drums and percussion. Filling out the sound is one of the province’s finest guitarists, Chad Murphy and the gut busting, “Horns of Justice”, including members of Reggae/Ska darlings, the Idlers. This potent combination creates an intensely catchy record filled with great hooks and a whole lot of soul.