Review: Duke Robillard Releases Explosive New Album “Blast Off”

Doug James and allows the guitarist to pick a smooth solo informed by Herb Ellis, who he once recorded with.

The title track injects Ventures surf to further alter the vibe. For “Feel My Cares,” the lone self-composed slow, slinky blues written when he was 17 (he co-pens a few others), Duke lays down a taut, stinging solo as the horns punctuate behind him. Cote sings the lyrics (“Touch my flame/tell me how it feels”) with as much feeling as if he had written them.

Robillard has also started a relationship with Nola Blue Records after a prodigious, decades-long association with Canada’s Stony Plain. However, even now, in the home stretch of his career, on the often explosive ‘Blast Off!,’ he shows no indication of slowing down.

In the music industry, longevity can be an elusive achievement, but veteran guitarist Duke Robillard is a testament to staying power. With a career spanning several decades, Robillard has amassed an impressive catalog of 35 to 38 albums since his post-Roomful of Blues debut in 1985. Now at the age of 77, he continues to captivate his loyal following with his signature blend of rollicking rock, jump blues, rockabilly, and energetic jazz.

Throughout his illustrious career, Robillard has collaborated with a diverse array of artists, including Tom Waits, Bob Dylan, Ronnie Earl, and John Hammond, to name a few. His extensive experience and musical prowess shine through in his latest album, ‘Blast Off!’. As the title suggests, this album is a celebration of Robillard’s unyielding passion and dedication to his craft.

From the gritty instrumental “Galactic Grease,” paying homage to Steve Cropper of Booker T. & the MGs, to the swinging “Stand By Me,” a nod to his Roomful days, Robillard effortlessly weaves together a tapestry of musical styles that showcase his versatility and virtuosity. With Chris Cote’s powerhouse vocals leading the way, tracks like “Warm and Tender Love” and Allen Toussaint’s “Confusion” come alive with soulful energy and groove.

Embracing his roots in New Orleans jazz, Robillard dives into classics like “I’ll Be Glad When You’re Dead (You Rascal You)” with infectious charm and wit. His rendition of Tom Waits’ “Lowdown” infuses a darker, edgier rock sound reminiscent of the Rolling Stones at their prime. Drawing inspiration from Count Basie, the instrumental “The King” is a big band scorcher that harkens back to Robillard’s Roomful days.

With the Ventures-inspired title track and the sultry blues ballad “Feel My Cares,” Robillard showcases his range as a musician and songwriter. Collaborating with Nola Blue Records, Robillard continues to push boundaries and defy expectations, proving that age is just a number when it comes to creating timeless music.

As ‘Blast Off!’ propels Duke Robillard into new sonic territories, one thing is clear – his passion for music is unwavering, and his legacy as a trailblazer in the blues and jazz scene is secure. With each note and lyric, Robillard invites listeners on a journey through the expansive landscape of American roots music, leaving an indelible mark on the musical world.