Swamp and Circumstance
Who said drummers should sit in the background and just keep the beat! Thankfully Nick Churkin (James T. and the Last Volunteers) didn't think so either and this is his debut CD, teaming up with another Volunteers member - Gary Lothian (guitars). I have always loved Nick's drumming - what I would describe in layman's terms a s "chunky" - good solid bass combined with inventive Chicago shuffle. Add some deep, swampy vocals and I am wondering why Nick hasn't stepped up to the mike, so to speak, long before this!
Nick handles all the vocal duties on this album, but it is hard to believe it is just a duo putting out this sound. Gary excels with some fantastic guitar playing - - acoustic, electric and slide. I know I am not the only one who thinks this guy has to be one of our most talented musicians. Two more musicians who should be constantly in work, but are seldom seen on the Blues circuit - let's hope this album sets the ball rolling for some live gigs around Sydney and the many festivals, for all our sakes!
Off the soap box and onto the recording - very well mixed with equal billing (sound) between the drums and guitar. Nick's vocals are strong, and while he does add the odd American twang here and there, his diction is so clear that even I picked up on some words that I had been listening to since the 60s but never understood! Thanx Nick!
Swamp and Circumstance contains 13 tracks, with 3 originals. Great selection from artists such as McKinley Morganfield (Trouble No More). Jimi Hendrix (Remember and Up From the Skies) to Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood, Memphis and Red Headed Woman, to name just a few. Like his drumming, Nick puts his own stamp on his vocals, never imitating the originals - often using a softer approach (Memphis) or a forceful delivery (It Hurts Me Too) than we are used to hearing with these covers. As I said previously, don't be fooled by the word "duo" or have preconceived ideas about the name Swamphouse - these guys put out a sound that any full on band would be proud to produce!
The Sydney Blues Society
- Julie Fox
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