Review: Altered Five Blues Band Releases “Hammer & Chisel” on Rock & Blues Muse

Altered Five Blues Band, hailing from Milwaukee, is about to celebrate its twenty-fifth anniversary with the release of their latest studio album, Hammer & Chisel. This group, which has received numerous Blues Music Award nominations, is known for delivering powerful and authentic blues music. For the sixth consecutive time, the production duties were handled by Tom Hambridge, resulting in a recording session in Nashville. Jeff Schroedl, the band’s principal songwriter and guitarist, now heads their label, Blind Pig Records, a position he has held for almost a decade.

Since its inception, Altered Five Blues Band has retained four original members, including vocalist Jeff Taylor, bassist Mark Solveson, and drummer Alan Arber. A new addition to the group is keyboardist Steve Huebler, who has stepped in to replace original member Raymond Tevich, to whom they pay tribute in this album. The band also features guest appearances from harmonica player Jason Ricci, saxophonist Max Abrams, and trumpeter Julio Diaz, adding depth to their sound.

The album “Hammer & Chisel” kicks off with “I Got It Good,” a horn-infused track showcasing Arber’s commanding beats, fiery guitar and keyboard interplay, and Taylor’s commanding vocals. The track “Dare Me to Do It,” a collaboration between Schroedl and Hambridge, exudes the essence of classic slow blues, reminiscent of Willie Dixon’s work, with Ricci’s soulful harmonica licks filling the spaces. Moving on to “Who Can You Trust,” the band delivers a John Lee Hooker-inspired boogie with clever lyrics and electrifying musical performances.

“Lotta Love Left in Me” is a heartfelt slow blues number highlighting resilience, with Huebler’s piano work shining through. The track that shares the album’s title, penned solely by Schroedl, sees Taylor proclaiming his independence and breaking societal norms. Returning to their signature boogie sound, the band presents “Can’t Shake It,” a lively track filled with piano flourishes, dynamic drumming, and soulful harmonica riffs. “Headline Blues,” co-written by the band, laments the overwhelming and depressing nature of the news cycle that constantly captures our attention.

Jeff Taylor’s songwriting prowess is showcased in tracks like “Hell or High Water,” a stomping number co-written with Schroedl that emphasizes dedication and loyalty. In “My Love Ain’t a Lie,” Taylor expresses unwavering devotion, complemented by Huebler’s emotive Hammond B3 organ playing. The album concludes with “The Will of Man,” a powerful track urging listeners to persevere in challenging times and rise above adversity through unity and determination.

Altered Five Blues Band’s “Hammer & Chisel” adds another compelling chapter to their musical repertoire, showcasing their energy and unwavering commitment to the blues genre. “The Will of Man” stands out as a strong contender for Blues Music Award Song of the Year, cementing the band’s status as a formidable force in contemporary blues music.